HELLO AND WELCOME!

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: DR. LISA JONES, PRESIDENT/CEO; MACKENZIE WILLIAMS, COMMUNITY OUTREACH & YOUTH COORDINATOR; STEPHANIE WILLIAMS, LMSW-C, VICE PRESIDENT & JO COOPER, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS (IMAGE NOT SHOWN) 

Founded by Dr. Lisa Jones, DNP, a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner specializing in family medicine, this initiative grew out of a heartfelt conversation with Stephanie Williams, LMSW-C, Psychotherapist about supporting inner-city and urban girls and young women.

We discussed the challenges many face when navigating critical life decisions, building healthy peer relationships, protecting their physical and mental well-being, and resisting pressures that can lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices. Too often, young women lack access to the tools, resources, and guidance needed to make informed decisions and reduce their exposure to harmful influences. Many also struggle with confidence, making it harder to pursue academic excellence or develop a strong, goal-oriented mindset for college and beyond.

Stephanie and I understand these challenges firsthand. As former inner-city girls, we were surrounded by obstacles that could have led us down the wrong path. Fortunately, we had caring mentors who helped build our self-esteem and instilled in us a determined, go-getter attitude. Now, we are committed to giving back; empowering the next generation of girls and young women to overcome barriers, believe in themselves, and achieve their full potential. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Lisa Jones, President/ CEO, image shown above.

Detroit native Jo Cooper spent her teenage summers working throughout the city and dedicated more than 30 years to the corporate customer service profession with DTE Energy and MichCon. After retiring from corporate life, she is now focused on fulfilling her life’s purpose through humanitarian work, personal growth, and projects designed to make a positive impact on the world.

Image shown above.

Mikaya Hall, a college graduate with experience in wellness, personal development, and mentoring, is passionate about helping young women build confidence, recognize their strengths, and develop healthy relationships. As Wellness & Confidence Coordinator for Girls Inspiring Girls, she provides encouragement, guidance, and positive support to teenage girls. 

Mackenzie Williams, Community Outreach & Youth Leader Coordinator for Girls Inspiring Girls Group, is passionate about empowering young women through mentorship, leadership, and community engagement. She is dedicated to helping teen girls build confidence, discover their potential, and succeed.

  The mission of Girls Inspiring Girls Group is to inspire, educate and facilitate healthy lifestyle behaviors in at-risk girls and young women residing within Oakland and Wayne County Michigan including the city of Detroit. We strive to be a source of motivation and provide some of the needed tools and resources that will foster a healthy body and mindset as well as a go-getter attitude toward higher education and career, and ultimately successful members of the community.  

 Ayana Williams is a dedicated Youth Mentor Leader and nursing student who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging young girls to believe in themselves and reach their full potential. Through mentorship and positive guidance, she strives to empower girls to build confidence, set goals, and pursue their dreams.  

Michael A. Hall is a multidisciplinary business strategist, operations leader, and organizational architect with more than 20 years of experience in business operations, entrepreneurship, nonprofit development, and strategic planning. He specializes in turning ideas into practical strategies and systems that improve efficiency, strengthen organizations, and create measurable community impact. Michael is also passionate about workforce development, innovation, and emerging artificial intelligence solutions that help organizations grow and succeed.