By Okon Ekpenyong

Tonya Kelly, the founder of Empower Our Youth Foundation, is a shining example of a mother’s love and determination. After her daughter contemplated suicide due to bullying, she set out to help other youths and families who were going through similar experiences.

According to the Ohio Department of Education, Ohio schools reported over 25,000 incidents of bullying in 2017-18. Nationally, the U.S. Department of Education reported that 28% of students aged 12-18 experienced bullying in the 2016-17 school year.

To provide more support to help the youth and their families, the foundation recently opened its first physical location. This hub will offer after-school programs and serve as a haven for families and their communities. It is a beautiful step forward in supporting those affected by bullying.

In celebration of Anti-Bullying Month, On October 13, 2023, Empower Our Youth Foundation Hub (EOYF) opened its first-ever location with a huge turnout. To end the month positively, EOYF held a fashion show intending to empower youth and spread awareness about the importance of anti-bullying.

The fashion show featured talented young models from the local community, showcasing the latest trends in fashion while emphasizing the message of anti-bullying. Attendees of the show were inspired by the models’ confidence and passion for making a positive change in their community.

The show was a great success, raising awareness about bullying and providing a platform for local fashion designers to showcase their work on a big stage. Most importantly, the show gave young people the confidence to be their true selves. Every clothing and model wowed the crowds, and it was an extraordinary event for all involved.

The show was a fitting way to end the month of October and drive attention to the cause of anti-bullying.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees could explore the new location and speak with the volunteers and staff of the foundation. The hub will Create a safe and nurturing space for young people to express themselves, learn, and grow. The opening of their first-ever location is a huge step forward in their mission, and they are excited to continue to provide support and resources to the community.

Providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to develop confidence and skills to pursue their goals is also the foundation’s mission. What to expect when visiting the hub will be a chance to explore a variety of programs and services, such as tutoring, career counseling, job placement, and mental health services. These services are designed to help young people reach their goals and become successful.

The Hub Center also provides mentoring and leadership opportunities for young people. Mentors provide guidance and support to help young people build self-esteem and develop essential life skills. The Hub Center also offers workshops and seminars on job readiness, financial literacy, and self-advocacy.

In conclusion, Tonya Kelly is also making a significant impact on the youth of the Westside of Columbus with her message of hope and prosperity. She is using her classroom experience to create anti-bullying initiatives, and now she is continuing that mission as the New Principal of Bridge Gate Community School. Tonya Kelly is an inspiring leader, and her commitment to the success of Columbus’ youth is admirable.

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