Ariel’s Girl Talk Story
From as far back as I can remember, I’ve always had a bubbly personality—I absolutely love people! But if I’m honest, maintaining that confidence hasn’t always been easy. Looking back, Girl Talk was a pivotal part of my self-esteem journey because it gave me the tools and encouragement to let my personality shine everywhere I go.
Around the start of middle school, I noticed an odd shift. I suddenly became hyper-aware of what others might think of me: What if they don’t like my outfit? What if I say the wrong thing? I’m not going to do it because they might think I’m weird. That self-consciousness made me nervous to grab the mic and speak my truth. I started holding back parts of my authentic self, dimming my light little by little.
Then came Girl Talk. My older sister had been involved, and honestly, I joined at first just because she was doing it, and it sounded interesting. However, when I attended Girl Talk Camp for the first time, everything changed. The positive, welcoming energy was electric. I met incredible people, received some of the best advice, and realized something that has stuck with me ever since: the most authentic version of me—the confident, bubbly, loud version—is the best version.
However, when I attended Girl Talk Camp for the first time, everything changed. The positive, welcoming energy was electric. I met incredible people, received some of the best advice, and realized something that has stuck with me ever since: the most authentic version of me—the confident, bubbly, loud version—is the best version.
Since that camp, Girl Talk has been a constant in my life. I’ve been a chapter member, leader, camper, counselor, and volunteer. Each role has taught me something new, and every experience has helped me build a deeper, more unshakeable confidence. Today, I can say without a doubt that Girl Talk gave me the courage to shine brighter and speak louder, even in spaces that make me feel nervous or self-conscious.
The statistic that a girl’s self-esteem peaks at age nine breaks my heart, but my journey with Girl Talk reminds me that it doesn’t have to be this way. Confidence is a journey, not a destination. It’s full of twists, turns, good days, and bad days.
To younger girls struggling with self-confidence be kind to yourself first. You are perfect exactly as you are. One thing that’s helped me is daily affirmations in the mirror: “You are beautiful. You matter.” And when in doubt, fake it till you make it. Chances are, someone else is just as nervous as you, and by showing up, you inspire them to do the same. With the tools I’ve gained through Girl Talk, I know that my confidence will continue to grow—and so can yours!
Girl Talk has been inspiring girls like Ariel to be confident leaders for over two decades, and in partnership with Dove and Sam’s Club, we will be doubling our reach nationwide. Join us in empowering thousands of more girls to build confidence and self-esteem through our peer-to-peer programs.
Learn more by visiting: https://samsclub.com/DoveSelfEsteem