The Blue and White had the opportunity to contact the young women at AHS responsible for the foundation of women’s involvement. Here is the inside scoop on how the new women’s club, FYV (Find Your Voice), sets the example for women and girls at Apopka High School.
Based on the three pillars of Mentorship, Charity, and Sisterhood, the FYV Girls Club takes pride in women’s empowerment. Since FYV stands for “Find Your Voice”, all those that I have contacted are determined to make young women’s voices heard in the community. The Sponsor of FYV, Ms.Wallace, transferred her seven years of Girls Club experience to Apopka High this year. Previous members of FYV at Apopka Middle joined the club at Apopka High. She expresses her gratitude to the returning members, who continue to “spread messages of love and empowerment.” The overarching goal of FYV is to help women love and accept themselves before they can empower others. When I came into their 2nd meeting on October 5th, I felt welcomed by a community of girls ready to spread a heartwarming message. I spoke with the enthusiastic officer team who shared their plans for the upcoming school year. Junior Nyla Johnson, the Vice President, expresses that she wants “every girl to feel confident in their skin and know that they aren’t alone.” Junior Syleena Carter, a club member, advises “not to let anybody get you down and know that there is always someone available to offer support.”
FYV provides a safe haven for all who attend club meetings. It is noted that many come in with unhealed traumas and are welcomed with open arms to share their troubles. Nyla Johnson, also shares that her desire is to “mentor someone in the way that I didn’t have, and prevent what happened to me from happening to someone else.” By tackling hardships, the club hopes to better prepare young women before they set foot in a college or career atmosphere. With overwhelming support, women and girls have the opportunity to develop a skill set to approach any obstacle ahead of them.
Each quarter, club members vote on community service projects. Currently in the works is a self-defense class for the girls to learn how to look out for their safety. Aside from aspiring inside the club, they hope to spread their support throughout Apopka. This month, they are putting together a Halloween party for students to come and openly express themselves. In November, club members plan to assemble meal kits and distribute them just before Thanksgiving. FYV also has contact with an organization that donates gifts to students around the holidays. Club members will bring gifts to the school that are distributed to those in the community. Partaking in community service encourages members to follow through with their goals. Whether this be a simple task or heading a service project, FYV demonstrates that women can be responsible for large plans and put them into action.
This is only just the beginning for FYV. Junior Bria Parsons, President of the club, shares, “I want all APK students and staff to know that we have a voice that needs to be heard and a difference to be seen.” By offering a judgment-free zone and teaching self-confidence in a sorority style, there is a likely chance of the Girls Club growing in size. Other than attending club meetings, they are looking for members with compassion, authenticity, and a willingness to learn. FYV does its best to reach out to the entire school via canvas announcements and visiting lunch tables.
Don’t hesitate to join FYV! You’ll be welcomed with positive energy and a place to openly share with other students. Participate in an organization that ensures women’s involvement at APK is here to stay.
If you’re interested in joining, contact [email protected] for more information.
