1) How did the idea for Iamstronginc. form?

The idea for I Am Strong Inc. formed by discussing how women tend to put ourselves last in the combustion of working, taking care of our families, etc. We originally thought it would be a social gathering type of setting where professional women come together and create networking opportunities in the midst of growing professionally and personally.

Mayleen went to a women empowerment summit last year and connected with the acting Commissioner of Office of Children and Family Services where she was encouraged to be in a pilot mentorship program after discussing our vision. We took this opportunity to uplift the youth, ages 14-20 years old, by developing life-skill workshops through mentoring.

2) Why is this population

- vulnerable? - Important?

This population is vulnerable because they may come from a background with an array of issues stemming from mental health illnesses, lack of emotional support, and repeated traumatic experiences. The reality is that these youth are being subjected to the same environments they came from once they re-enter society which can be a difficult task at hand. They may not know how to search for a job, seek shelter services, or brand themselves for interviews; however, they are receptive and willing to learn. That said, we help them with building a life-plan in the hopes we reduce recidivism and encourage them to become a productive member of society.

This population is important to us because, while we thought we would be mentoring youth from Upstate NY, we realized we are transforming lives from all over the New York State ranging from Buffalo, Rochester, Brooklyn and The Bronx (our birthplace). There is a warm, fulfilling feeling knowing we are able to pay it forward to many people from our direct communities.

3) Describe a hardship with forming Iamstronginc.

One hardship with forming I Am Strong Inc. is funding. We are currently paying out of pocket for all expenses which include travel, food for community events and licensing. We are currently accepting donations and trainings for our Board Members on how to work with different personality traits and effective communication techniques.

4) Describe one of your proudest moments.

Our proudest moment was when we discussed with the youth our interest of becoming a non-profit as opposed to remaining a social mentor group. During our discussion, we stated the need for a name of our non-profit. As we opened the floor for discussion, one of the young ladies jumped out of her seat with excitement and yelled, "I AM STRONG!"

We then checked the name availability of the organization. It was available for our non-profit. The name was fitting. It represents strength, which is built upon life's pillars of pain, discovery, faith, trials and tribulations.

5) How can people support Iamstronginc?

Not only can people support our endeavors by donating to the cause (donations will be used for workshop materials, travel expenses, technology fees, website maintenance, and other financial obligations, etc.) but we would like to collaborate with other community organizations in upcoming projects. For more information about I Am Strong Inc., feel free to visit www.iamstronginc.org.

6) Many people assume that if commit a crime and go to jail, you deserve to be there. It is common to dismiss the person of their rights, depending on the brevity of their crime. Others understand that life's circumstances may have led to people making decisions that cost them their freedom. The idea of forgiveness is scarce. What is your stance on these ideologies? How does this effect the young women you work with?

We believe that forgiveness begins within yourself, owning up to your mistakes, accepting full responsibility, and creating an action plan on how to move forward in life. In order for us to move forward in society, we have to learn how to have an open mind to those who are reintegrating back into our communities by highlighting resources needed and providing support services. Our passion for uplifting the youth shapes our mentorship workshops and generates newfound hope for a brighter future.

7) What is self love to you and how do you practice it?

Our definition of self love means listening to your intuition and identifying our weaknesses. Mayleen practices self love by setting aside alone time to indulge in reading, journaling, painting and taking photos while traveling. Marleen practices self love by reading daily affirmations, spending time with family and by self-reflection.

8) Does the population you work with find it difficult to love themselves? If so, what are the barriers that prevent this?

We both believe there are moments in life where everyone, no matter what background one comes from, finds it difficult to love themselves, especially because of media propaganda. The population we work with do not find it difficult to love themselves because they learn how to use their talents to cope and build meaningful relationships with each other. Instead, they feel more empowered after working with us and they appreciate our help. Other ways they practice self-love are through journaling, creating S.M.A.R.T goals, creating vision boards, having an open and confidential discussion forums with us professional women.

9) What advice do you have for people who are afraid

- to follow their dreams?

Just go for it! Keep trying-only you can get in the way of you. -Marleen

I'd rather fail after trying to accomplish my dreams than not ever taking the chance at all. -Mayleen

- Start their own business?

Starting your own business will take hard work, dedication and time to see it progress. It also takes a team of passionate people who are willing to put the same amount of effort as you are to see your ideas come to fruition. If you are afraid to create your own business, seek mentorship from friends and respected colleagues to iron out your business plan and visions.

10) Is there anything about you (race, gender, creed, etc.) that motivates you to keep going?

Our Board Members motivate us to keep pushing past any challenges we may encounter. They are professional women, some are mothers, that balance community service, school and work altogether. Additionally, seeing lives transform after developing a rapport is what motivates us to do the work we do. Not only do the youth grow with us, but we also learn more about ourselves, other board members and guest speakers we invite.

11) What are some of the hardships that the incarcerated youths outside of their time in jail?

Some hardships are lack of employment, lack of positive reinforcements and lack of shelter.

12) What makes you strong?

I am able to be vulnerable and still maintain an optimistic outlook on life. - Marleen

My ability to persevere in any situation makes me strong. - Mayleen

P.S. Thank you Lorenda, for the opportunity to discuss I Am Strong Inc. on your blog. We appreciate you.

Warm Regards,

Marleen and Mayleen, Founders

I Am Strong Inc.

Lada: I met Mayleen and her sister Marleen at an event in Albany. Upon hearing their words and hearing about I am strong, I knew I had to interview them for the website. Thank you both so much for all the work you do and for this amazing interview!