She Matters Too !!!

Pageantry is a wonderful avenue for young women to learn about themselves.  Through pageant participation young women gain self esteem through public speaking, learn poise by presenting themselves on stage as well as learn about serving the less fortunate when performing community service.   One thing that sticks out in my mind is that most young women who participate in pageantry have a great support system already in hand and in their corner - a mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, friend, teacher, or coach.

 Yoanna House, Winner of America's Next Top Model - cycle 2; and a parent/volunteer at a 

"She Matters Too" Conference in Owings Mills, MD

Unfortunately, not everyone has same basis of support and don't often have the opportunity to learn that pageants can be much more than just being pretty and prancing on stage.  That's where an event like "She Matters Too" comes in.  She Matters Too is an annual conference held in Baltimore County, Maryland and is the brain child of business partners Yolanda Sonnier and Kendall Randall-Jolivet.  During the one day conference, girls between the ages of 9 - 17 are "empowered to embrace life, pursue her dreams and fulfill her destiny".  Attendees and their parents can participate and are educated through workshops, vendor/exhibitors, performances and a day full of networking and fun.

Young ladies participate in a workshop during the She Matters Too Conference.

This year's conference will include a workshop on Pageantry 101.  Featured as the keynote speaker will be the former Lt. Governor of Maryland, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend.  An awards ceremony honoring young women who have succeeded in the areas of Academics, Athleticism, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Community Service, and overall Achievement will round out the days activities.

Adrienne Watson Carver, Mrs. Maryland International 2009, spends time

with attendees during the 2009 She Matters Too Conference following her presentation.

Pageantry may not be for everyone, however it's important to remember that the skills needed to be successful in everyday life are the same skills required to do well in pageants.    Whether you've considered competing in pageantry or you are already an active competitor, try attending a conference like She Matters and expand your realm to explore the endless possibilities of your greatness.

Kemba Smith, nationally renowned motivational speaker, signs autographs for attendees at the end of the conference.