Celebrating Empowerment: G.I.R.L.S & Cycle Project Shines in Birkenhead

On Friday, August 18th, the town of Birkenhead came alive with a celebration night that marked the culmination of an inspiring project: G.I.R.L.S & Cycle. Held at Pilgrim Street, this event was a testament to the dedication of several organizations that partnered to uplift young women in the community.

The project, a collaboration between Creative Youth Development, Response, Positive Futures, and Energise Cycles, has proven to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for vulnerable young women. It built upon the exceptional work of Shiralea Coldicott and Sarah Williams, who have been at the forefront of empowering girls through their existing GIRLS group.

G.I.R.L.S (Growing, Inspiring, Rebuilding, Learning, and Supporting) is a personal development project designed for young women who are referred to the program as part of Youth Matters. This initiative aims to empower these young women, nurture their self-esteem, confidence, and resilience, and enhance their mental health and overall well-being. Such programs have been a cornerstone of Creative Youth Development's life skills curriculum, with Response providing crucial support by delivering workshops on drug and alcohol education and safety.

This year, the G.I.R.L.S project took a significant leap forward by partnering with Positive Futures and Energise Cycles for the first time. This collaboration opened up exciting opportunities for the young women involved. Not only did they learn to build their own bikes, but they also embarked on bike rides, promoting physical fitness and a sense of adventure. Furthermore, the project encouraged healthy eating habits and provided access to gym facilities through funded passes as part of the HAF (Holiday Activity and Food) summer program.

The G.I.R.L.S & Cycle project has been nothing short of a resounding success. The celebration night on August 18th served as a platform to acknowledge the incredible achievements of these young women. It was a night to shine a spotlight on the remarkable partnerships forged between the organizations and dedicated professionals who made it all possible.

As the highlight of the evening, the young women were formally presented with the bikes they had worked so hard to build. These bikes represent not just a means of transportation but also a symbol of empowerment, independence, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for these remarkable young women.

The G.I.R.L.S & Cycle project in Birkenhead stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations and individuals come together with a shared vision. It has empowered young women, provided them with life skills, encouraged physical fitness, and, most importantly, nurtured their self-belief. As the project continues to flourish, it is a shining example of how collective efforts can make a profound impact on the lives of vulnerable youth. The celebration night on August 18th was not just a conclusion but also a new beginning, as these young women pedal into a future filled with possibilities and newfound confidence.