When it comes to helping girls believe in themselves, few experiences are as impactful as a well-crafted empowerment event. That’s exactly what Girls on Fire delivers through their Confidence Conferences—one-day events held in Edmonton and Red Deer that give girls aged 8–13 the tools to build confidence, resilience, and sisterhood.
But what actually happens behind the scenes at one of these conferences? What makes them so unique and memorable for both participants and parents? Let’s take a closer look at how these events unfold and why they’re becoming a go-to for parents seeking growth-focused programs for their daughters.
What Is a Girls on Fire Confidence Conference?
A Confidence Conference is a one-day, empowerment-packed experience designed to help girls build inner strength through self-defense, mindset training, creative expression, and community bonding. These aren’t your typical seminars—they’re interactive, dynamic, and filled with opportunities for self-discovery.
Girls arrive as individuals and leave as teammates, ready to face challenges with new tools, fresh confidence, and a support system to match.
Why Confidence Matters in the Tween Years
The ages between 8 and 13 are foundational for shaping self-image and self-worth. Studies show that a girl’s confidence peaks at age 9 before often declining through adolescence. That’s why the Girls on Fire Confidence Conferences are so powerful—they catch girls during this critical window and show them they are strong, capable, and worthy.
By integrating mental, emotional, and physical activities, these conferences meet girls where they are and guide them forward with compassion and purpose.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look: What Happens at a Confidence Conference?
1. A Warm, Welcoming Start
Every conference begins with a warm check-in process, where girls receive name tags and are placed into small teams led by local female mentors. These mentors—known as Torchbearers—are teachers, entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders who serve as real-life role models throughout the day.
Right from the beginning, girls are greeted with high energy, upbeat music, and encouraging staff. The tone is clear: this is a space where you belong, where you’re safe, and where your voice matters.
2. Team Building & Ice Breakers
Next comes group bonding. Girls participate in fun icebreakers, movement games, and team-building exercises. These activities are designed to break down barriers and help girls connect with their peers. No cliques here—just laughter, shared experiences, and growing confidence.
Girls learn early that they don’t have to be perfect to be powerful, and that every voice in the room is valuable.
3. Workshops That Empower from the Inside Out
The heart of the day lies in hands-on workshops that cover the 5 core pillars of Girls on Fire:
- Self-Defense & Combat Training – Girls learn practical moves to defend themselves physically and emotionally.
- Growth Mindset & Goal Setting – Activities help girls set intentions and build a “can-do” attitude.
- Creativity & Happiness – Arts-based projects allow for joyful self-expression and vision-building.
- Health & Wellness – Workshops on nutrition, body positivity, and emotional regulation.
- Community & Leadership – Exercises that teach teamwork, inclusivity, and servant leadership.
These sessions are led by experienced instructors and mentors who guide girls through challenges and celebrate their progress.
4. Lunch & Mentorship Moments
Lunchtime is more than just a break—it’s an opportunity for deep connection. Girls eat with their teams and mentors, where open conversations about life, challenges, and goals naturally unfold. These small, supportive conversations often become the most cherished part of the day.
Mentors may share their own stories of insecurity, growth, or triumph, giving girls living examples of resilience and possibility.
5. The Board-Breaking Ceremony
The day ends with one of the most powerful experiences: the board-breaking ceremony.
Each girl steps up to break a wooden board with her hand or foot—symbolizing a personal breakthrough. Whether it’s fear, self-doubt, or insecurity, she writes that limiting belief on the board… and shatters it in front of her cheering peers and mentors.
It’s not just symbolic—it’s transformative. For many, it’s the first time they’ve ever felt truly strong, truly proud, and truly unstoppable.
Why Alberta Parents Trust Girls on Fire Events
Expertly Designed
Each Confidence Conference is thoughtfully structured to blend education, empowerment, and excitement. Girls don’t just sit and listen—they move, speak, create, and reflect.
Led by Real Women
Our mentors come from all walks of life and lead with authenticity. Their stories resonate with girls because they’re real, relatable, and inspiring.
Safe and Supportive
Safety—physical, emotional, and mental—is a top priority. The atmosphere is carefully crafted to be inclusive, affirming, and age-appropriate.
Proven Outcomes
Parents consistently report positive changes in their daughters after attending—from increased confidence to better communication and more self-awareness.
How to Register for an Upcoming Event
Ready to give your daughter the experience of a lifetime? Here’s how to join our next Confidence Conference in Edmonton or Red Deer:
- Visit https://girlsonfire.ca
- Select your location and event date
- Complete the registration form and watch for confirmation
- Prepare for a day of fun, growth, and unforgettable moments!
Spots fill quickly, especially during peak seasons, so early registration is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts: Empowerment That Lasts
What makes a Girls on Fire Confidence Conference so special? It’s not just the martial arts or the crafts or even the mentorship. It’s the spark—the spark that lights up a girl when she realizes she is more powerful than she believed, and that she’s never alone on her journey.
Behind the scenes, these events are full of careful planning, passionate mentors, and thoughtful design. On the surface, they’re full of smiles, breakthroughs, and new friendships.
Together, they create something truly magical—a day that can change a girl’s life.