By JoAnn Fields
Contributing Writer
San Diego, CA: The Fourth Annual Focused And Naturally Confident Youth (F.A.N.C.Y.) Teen Girls Expo took place in Southeastern San Diego on April 12th, 2014 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at O’Farrell Charter School. The F.A.N.C.Y. Teen Girls Expo DETOUR Empowers is an annual signature event that draws 200 teenage girls between the ages of 14 – 19 to participate in a day-long summit. Over the past three years $3,300 in educational scholarships has been awarded to 21 expo attendees selected through a scholarship contest.
“It was amazing to see how well the teenage participants were so in tune with the speakers. You could see the young ladies’ faces light up when they heard something they were dealing with. More than often it is hard for young people to communicate what issues they may be struggling with. The FANCY Teen Expo provided a safe space to discuss and learn how to cope. More importantly, they found out they are not the only one dealing with the same challenges,” states Dana Bryant, Founder, Eleanor’s Place.
“My daughter Journey Crumpler is a freshman at Health Sciences High and Middle School College. Ever since the FANCY Teen Expo she has been excited about modeling. She definitely received a boost of high self-esteem having participated in the FANCY Teen Expo fashion show. Journey has been offered to model in two additional fashion shows in the near future. It’s amazing how one opportunity can open so many other doors. As a parent, we must support and encourage our children to actively participate in events such as the FANCY Teen Expo. We never know what will happen next!” shares Erica Crumpler, Mother of Journey Crumpler and Owner, Brilliant Treats,
“The Fancy Teen Expo is such a value to our Southeastern community. I was so touched by the warmth of the staff and the openness of the young girls to share their emotions and keep it real! I plan to be a part of this community and grow it to the next level so that our nation will be able to experience this for their communities,” stated Tia Ross, keynote speaker, Fancy Teen Expo & Certified Master Facilitator, Motivating The Teen Spirit.
“Each year the FANCY Teen Girls Expo continues to grow thanks to the help from our sponsors, supporters, and volunteers. It is our vision that all girls within our community will feel the sense of encouragement and support as they press beyond their pain towards their passions. We are here to see them become positive women who become successful and in turn give back to those coming behind them,” shares Tinesia Conwright, Founder and Executive Director, DETOUR Empowers.
For more information regarding DETOUR Empowers program and activities visit their website at www.detourempowers.org or contact Founder and Executive Director, Tinesia Conwright via phone at (619) 750.1180 or via email at [email protected]
Photos by JoAnn Fields:
