Do you believe you can change the world?

The question is simple, DO YOU BELIEVE YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD? The answer can be contemplative, or immediate, in either case it begins a journey of self-exploration of how and what we believe is possible for us.

It is one of the many questions that we posed to over 1200 girls over these past two months as we all went on the collective Generation WOW journey of the positive and the possible in cities across the country. ?

At the end of September, we partnered with the Portland Interscholastic League to bring the Generation WOW movement to over 800 young female athletes who attend Portland Oregon Public Schools. The experience showcased the authentic stories of former Olympians who have become all-star business leaders, outstanding athletes, and local legends who reminded us to dream big and believe in ourselves.

On Tuesday, November 1st we began the celebration of 10 years of Generation WOW making a difference in girls’ lives at the University of North Florida. It was an incredible gathering of teen girls and mentors?– coming together to ask questions, explore their hopes and dreams, uplift their spirits, and CONNECT. Inspiring speakers like Retired JSO Assistant Chief Lakesha Burton and VP/GM of WJXT-TV & WCWJ-TV Terri Cope Walton shared their stories encouraging attendees to lead their lives with confidence, courage, and curiosity.

It's unbelievable how fast ten years have gone?and the enduring impact the WOW program has had on thousands of girls and women. The WOW movement blossomed from listening to the voices of girls who had the desire to boldly answer, "HOW CAN WE CHANGE THE WORLD?"?

At Generation W we believe the power of connection is difference-making as it is a tonic for enhancing our abilities to be CONFIDENT, COURAGEOUS, CURIOUS, and elevate our COMMUNITY! When the WOW of girls unites with the WISDOM of women, what we call WOWsdom!, the?invaluable connection provides a key to unlocking the power of the positive and the possible.?

It is this superpower of connection that unlocked the hearts and minds of a special group of women who came together for our 2nd annual Links to Leadership Summit. A group of young professional and collegiate female golfers in partnership with the PXG Women’s Match Play Championship received special invites to participate in this 4-hour session of personal and professional exploration and connection. It was magical as authentic conversations supported by caring and engaged mentors created a safe space for sharing and learning.

Life is filled with sugar and spice. Moments like these, when we can sprinkle a little sugar and goodness into the world, uplifting ourselves and each other, we experience first-hand how capable we each are of CHANGING THE WORLD. We are eternally grateful to everyone who has helped sprinkle this goodness throughout the W Community – with grace, vulnerability, and a whole lot of heart. As our WOW girls claim, together, we can step up and step out to make the world a better place.