In today’s world, where intersectionality and diverse voices are gaining the recognition they deserve, the Women of Color Empowerment Club stands as a beacon of solidarity, empowerment, and change.
This dynamic community brings together women of color from all walks of life, providing a platform to share their unique experiences, advocate for social justice, and uplift one another.
What is soulful and how does it work?
“We created Soul Flo Collective to provide a safe and welcoming space for students of color to connect and thrive. While other clubs offer great opportunities, we wanted to focus on creating a space that incorporates a lot of different things like creativity, mindfulness, and self-expression. We’re all about exploring different artistic mediums, encouraging personal growth, advocating for our needs, and engaging in activities that inspire and uplift.” Said Linizie Velasquez, a co-founder of Soul Flo Collective. Who emphasizes that the importance of the club is to feel empowered and confident in who you are.
What inspired the creation of this club and what was the motivation?
Aryana Berhane, the other co-founder of Soul Flo Collective, said, “ We made the club because we saw that there weren’t a lot of spaces for women of color where they can speak out.”
Struggling to find peers who share your background or understand the complexities of your experiences is quite common. Girls often feel overlooked or dismissed in a sea of faces that don’t reflect their identity. It is quite concerning that only %10 percent of Minnesota high schools have clubs that specialize in women who feel excluded or embarrassed.
How does the club support the empowerment of women of color in the school or community?
Berhane said, “Our club is dedicated to empowering women of color by fostering open discussions where they can freely express their feelings and experiences. We provide a safe space for them to share when they feel underrepresented or overlooked in any way, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.” She also emphasized that the club is a space for collective growth, where everyone can feel supported and embraced.
What events or activities does the club host to bring members together?
Velasquez said, “This year, we’re hoping to expand by hosting events and interactive family nights. Our members are incredibly creative, and we’ve brainstormed a lot of exciting ideas! As for what we do regularly, we’re really flexible, as we’re student-led, so we like to feel things out and see what we need collectively. This year, we are super excited to be offering more learning opportunities!”
They are thrilled about the opportunity to introduce the concept of wellness days into the club, recognizing the importance of mental and physical well-being for all members. In addition, they are eager to host a variety of guest speakers who can offer valuable insights, inspiration, and expertise on a wide range of topics.
How do you handle sensitive topics, such as mental health, racism, or discrimination, within the club?
Their goal is to create a trauma-informed, safe space where openness, honesty, and vulnerability are encouraged. Fostering healthy choices reminds everyone that seeking help is okay, and emphasizes that support is always available, regardless of identity.
How do you envision the club evolving in the next few years?
Berhane said, “Although we started later last year, we’ve begun building connections within our community. Moving forward, our goal is to secure funding, organize trips that reflect our values, and engage in community service.”
She also wanted to share that they are always ready to grow the Soul Flo Collective club and welcome more members.
So, if you’re looking for a club that would allow you to amplify your voice and make an impact in empowering women both in and out of school, Soul Flo Collective is a perfect choice.
