Our Aims
In 2021, P.H.O.E.B.E. committed to developing a new self-esteem programme. Strong Black Girls which builds on the Suffolk Girls Self-Esteem Project but is specifically tailored for and delivered to Black girls. Research shows that self-esteem can develop differently across different cultural and social experiences, highlighting the importance of programmes designed to reflect the lived experiences of Black girls.
The Strong Black Girls project aims to improve self-esteem and empower young Black girls within the Suffolk area. Young Minds, a UK charity supporting young people with mental health issues, has indicated that Black girls are at a higher risk of developing low self-esteem in comparison to other races because of the negative implications of discrimination and racism in the UK.
What is self-esteem?
Self-esteem is how we see and value ourselves as people. For Black girls, self-esteem is shaped by personal experiences and the messages they receive from the world around them. Comments about hair, body image, or skin tone can have a lasting impact on confidence and self-worth. When these experiences are negative, they can lead to low self-esteem and affect many areas of life.
What are we doing to help?
OUR PLAN OF ACTION
Here at P.H.O.E.B.E we want to ensure we are providing the most effective materials for young girls to build their self-esteem and to grow into confident young girls.
The project is centred around delivering these self-esteem workshops regularly in local schools and organisations across the Ipswich area for girls aged between 5-19. Each workshop addresses cultural issues faced by the Black community which, if not celebrated, highlighted, or educated in, can result in detrimental issues which stay embedded in the individual’s subconscious. Topics covered include reframing bias, cultural identity, and celebrating our talents.
Furthermore, being treated differently or unfairly because of race, skin colour or ethnicity can negatively affect mental health. Therefore, we also plan to host discussions around mental health and how to cope with stressful situations.
What we teach our girls
Through the Strong Black Girls Self-Esteem sessions, we encourage girls to recognise their strengths, believe in their abilities, and know that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to. We inspire them to follow their dreams, develop new skills, and grow into confident Leaders of Tomorrow. Most importantly, we aim to nurture self-belief and remind every girl that she is valued, important, and deserving of success.
Hair
Microaggressions
Adultification & Trauma
Highlight
Educate
Celebrate