Participating in the Claiming Who I Am activity was a powerful and affirming experience, and it beautifully aligned with the work we do through our Girls Circle programming at YWCA Glendale and Pasadena. Our program is centered on creating a safe, supportive space where girls can explore their identities, build confidence, and uplift one another. The Claiming Who I Am activity from A Window Between Worlds fit seamlessly into that mission.
During the month of March, in celebration of Women’s History Month, our Girls Circle engaged in an activity focused on honoring the contributions of women. As part of our reflection, participants brainstormed and journaled about influential women in society, within our community, and in their own personal lives. We also discussed the idea of “quiet leaders”—those who may not always be recognized, but who are consistently working in both big and small ways to expand opportunities for women.
Building on this conversation, we introduced the Claiming Who I Am activity from AWBW. Each student was invited to reflect on the many characteristics that shape their identity. They identified personal strengths such as being strong, caring, independent, and determined, while also naming important roles they hold, including student, daughter, sister, and friend. One of the most meaningful moments was when participants began writing down each other’s names, expressing how important this group is to their sense of identity and belonging.
Following this reflection, students created vision board–style art pieces, decorating frames that represented their journeys as girls and the women they aspire to become. Their artwork highlighted their goals, dreams, and the values they want to carry forward. The Claiming Who I Am activity served as a powerful foundation, allowing participants to set aside negative messages they often encounter about women in media and culture, and instead focus on their strengths, identities, and possibilities.
This experience was a beautiful reminder of how impactful it is to create intentional spaces where girls can celebrate who they are, support one another, and envision their futures with confidence and pride.
