Sophia eighth grader Tailee prepares to share her wisdom on the Young Women’s Panel
From Maura Farrell, Sophia Academy Head of School
On November 5, eighth grader Tailee served as the youngest panelist at the 2021 R.I.S.E Women’s Leadership Conference. Speaking to a packed hall with self-assurance and ease, Tailee shared powerful words that revealed the wisdom she has developed at Sophia Academy: “I believe that success does not depend on your age, education, or financial status. Success depends on belief in yourself, and the consistent actions you take towards your goals.”
Sophia was also well represented by alumna Ashley Ogoffa, now a senior at Lincoln School. I was honored to moderate this conversation among five dynamic young Rhode Island women. As Sophia continues to take consistent action to fulfill its goals, inspired by Ashley, Tailee, and all of their Sophia sisters, I'm proud that we continue to invite and empower the voices of young women.
“I believe that success does not depend on your age, education, or financial status. Success depends on belief in yourself, and the consistent actions you take towards your goals.”
Our goal is to encourage each student to build her curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence, and to use her innate wisdom on her journey. We want each student to be secure in her identity, skills, and right to forge any pathway she chooses as a learner and a leader. I'm grateful to a community of faculty, mentors, donors, and volunteers who work alongside our students and graduates. As we enter the third winter of a global pandemic and experience the ongoing, complex challenges around the world, there is no more important work than ensuring girls and women have the courage, wisdom, and responsibility to believe in themselves and rise to every challenge. The strong voices of the R.I.S.E. Young Women's Circle panel give us hope.
