NewsLocal NewsBuffalo

Actions

'I found my voice': Buffalo women celebrate completion of 10-week empowerment series

Posted at 10:26 PM, May 25, 2024

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — There's that someone in your life that's always giving to others, but not taking care of themselves. Maybe that person is you.

That rang true for dozens of women who took matters into their own hands, by signing up for the free "Empow-HER," a 10-week series focused on healing and self-care.

"I feel absolutely great. I feel good about everything," said participant Debbie Roberts. "I was nervous in the beginning, but it really helped me a lot. It's teaching me how to cope."

When we first met Roberts back in March, she felt like she had to wear a mask and hide her feelings.

WATCH RELATED: 'I want to refresh myself': Buffalo women hosting free empowerment series to heal community

'I want to refresh myself': Buffalo women hosting free empowerment series to heal community

She and the other women spent each week taking on a new challenge, from fitness and yoga to finance lessons and therapy sessions.

"I found my voice," said participant Tara Fulgham. "I'll never be the same again, I am forever changed and I will forever have a circle of women who will love and support me."

Lillian, Tamieka, Joyce, Sandi and Karen pose for a picture at the celebration
Lillian, Tamieka, Joyce, Sandi and Karen pose for a picture at the celebration

Women who were complete strangers to each other in March are now sisters in May.

"I have learned to give myself grace," said participant Karen Turley. "Belonging to a group and being with people who don't pass judgment on me."

If you're feeling inspired by these women, you'll have a chance to experience the series in the fall. The plan is to have another Empow-HER series and a program for men through Teach Me and Teachable Moments Inc.

Organizer Tamieka Johnson went out of pocket for a lot of the programming, so to continue, she'll need some sponsors. To donate, click here. Johnson's email is tamieka@tmandtm.org.