An Ask

I’m very proud to be a Patron of Fire in support of the social enterprise Girl Shaped Flames (GSF) which provides confidence and skill development experiences for teenage girls. GSF’s Founder, Tanya Meessmann, has been working hard virtually solo for the past 3 years to inspire, engage and build the confidence of teenage girls across SE QLD. Recently the company was able to bring on some part-time staff to help support Tanya and grow the impact of their activities. 

And then COVID-19 hit. 

Being an events-based business, ALL of GSF’s activities have been put on hold until at least June of this year, a hit too hard to take for such a lean entity and one that will result in those new staff losing their jobs. We know the important role strong, resilient and ambitious young women will play in our communities and workplaces for years to come, and want to help ensure Girl Shaped Flames can push through this difficult time. 

While we (adults) are being inconvenienced by cancelled meetings, ‘work from home’ situations and job instability, with the impending schools closures and social distancing, girls' entire support networks that exist through social landscapes (school classes, teachers, sports, formals, extra curricular etc) are being cancelled, which is exacerbating an already strained generation we know to be one the most anxious and risk-adverse to date. 

Girl Shaped Flames is committed to working hard to support the girls through this time through virtual content, mentoring and workshops.

To do this, we would like to put a call out to everyone (men included!) who would like to support Girl Shaped Flames #anAsk

1.Become a Patron of Fire

For $175 you’ll be making an important contribution that will not only keep jobs and Girl Shaped Flames’ ability to continue supporting their girls, but Patrons are welcomed into an exclusive support network, Tanya’s go-to for interactions with and expertise offered to the girls. PLUS for each Patron that registers, one girl currently receiving support from headspace youth mental health services will receive a place in their half-day intensive workshops when they start back up in the second half of this year.  To register, head to: https://girlshapedflames.com/patronoffire/  

2. Purchase their online Teen Resilience Kit (for your daughter, granddaughter or niece, or gift to a headspace SE QLD girl)

This is a a brand new and comprehensive resource designed to foster stronger parent/daughter connections and relationships while building each girls’ resilience during this time of significant upheaval. Right now communication is key for families to feel supported, connected and understood, and this resource gives parents and guardians the tools to stay connected to their daughters while maintaining positivity, resilience and balance. To purchase, head to: https://girlshapedflames.com/gsfconnect 

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting Tanya in person, or seeing the fantastic LinkedIn updates from Girl Shaped Flames, you’ll know the grit, determination and commitment she shows to empowering girls everywhere, and we share that determination to help her continue her important work. 

Thank you!!