Celebrating Success: Female Strong Scholars Shine at National Student Leadership Conference
At Female Strong, our mission is to empower and uplift young women, providing them with opportunities that amplify their potential and nurture their growth. We are immensely proud to share the achievements of two exceptional individuals who have exemplified the spirit of our organization: Maya Depies and Jorie Binion. These remarkable young women, alumni of our Youth Empowerment Academy (YEA!) program, were awarded scholarships to attend the prestigious National Student Leadership Conference hosted at esteemed universities all over the country. Their experiences and accomplishments are a testament to the power of education, determination, and the unwavering support of Female Strong.
Maya Depies’ Acting Intensive at Columbia University
Maya Depies embarked on an incredible journey of artistic exploration by attending the National Student Leadership Conference’s acting intensive program hosted at Columbia University. Over the course of 18 days, Maya immersed herself in a world of creativity, growth, and self-discovery. Her time at Columbia included an array of enriching experiences, from attending Broadway shows and visiting cultural landmarks like Times Square and museums, to engaging in diverse classes such as improv, script analysis, clown class, voice and speech, and more.
A truly standout moment for Maya was the unexpected opportunity to engage with none other than Gaten Matarazzo, known for his role as Dustin in “Stranger Things.” Maya’s gratitude radiates as she reflects on her journey, recognizing the transformative impact of the YEA! program and the NSLC scholarship on her growth both as an actress and as an individual.
Jorie Binion’s Medical Exploration at Georgetown University
Jorie Binion’s experience at the National Student Leadership Conference’s medicine and healthcare program at Georgetown University was a captivating journey into the world of medical knowledge and personal development. Stepping out of her comfort zone, Jorie navigated the challenges of solo travel with the exceptional support of NSLC staff. What followed was a summer experience that would forever shape her perspective.
Through hands-on learning, Jorie delved into various medical skills, including epidemiology, applying tourniquets, intubation, and even dissection—an unforgettable exploration of the anatomy of a cow’s eye. Equally impactful were the lessons in leadership, communication, and self-advocacy. Jorie’s connection with fellow attendees from around the world, the guidance of her TA Jada, and the wisdom shared by speakers like Dennard Mitchell contributed to her transformative growth.
Learn more about the YEA! Chicago program, our 6 month entrepreneurship intensive for girls in 6th-12th grade, at https://femalestrong.org/program/entrepreneur-girls/. In October, we are kicking off a new cohort in Downtown Chicago. We encourage you or a passionate girl in your life to apply today!
