In today’s fast-paced, often overwhelming world, tween girls are navigating new challenges related to body image, social media, identity, and confidence. Fortunately, a growing movement across Alberta is stepping in to empower them—and at the heart of that movement is mentorship.
Programs like Girls on Fire are changing the lives of girls aged 8–13 by connecting them with strong, supportive female mentors. From Edmonton to Red Deer, Alberta women are helping build a future where girls are confident, resilient, and ready to lead.
What Is Mentorship—and Why Does It Matter?
Mentorship is more than just guidance—it’s a relationship rooted in trust, encouragement, and real-world wisdom. For girls, having a female role model who understands their struggles can make all the difference. Whether it’s through shared experiences, encouragement, or hands-on coaching, mentorship fills a gap that neither parents nor teachers can fully occupy.
According to the Harvard Business Review, mentored youth are more likely to succeed in school, report higher self-esteem, and demonstrate stronger leadership skills. For young girls, this can shape how they see themselves for years to come.
Alberta’s Unique Mentorship Landscape
Alberta has always been a province known for its strong community values, and that spirit is reflected in the women who step up to lead the next generation. Programs like Girls on Fire in Edmonton and Red Deer connect local female professionals, athletes, artists, and leaders with tween girls looking to build confidence and purpose.
These mentors are not just volunteers—they’re role models. They share their stories, lead workshops, and most importantly, show girls what it looks like to be powerful, vulnerable, and proud of who you are.
Meet the Torchbearers
At Girls on Fire, mentors are known as “Torchbearers”—women who light the way for others. These mentors guide girls through activities like:
- Martial arts and self-defense: Teaching both physical and emotional strength.
- Growth mindset challenges: Helping girls shift from “I can’t” to “I can.”
- Team-building workshops: Encouraging girls to work together, not compete.
- Personal story sharing: Allowing girls to see real examples of overcoming challenges.
By the end of each Confidence Conference or Sparklers program, girls not only feel seen—they feel inspired.
Benefits of Mentorship for Girls Aged 8–13
The tween years are critical for development. A girl’s confidence typically peaks around age 9 and declines through adolescence, particularly in the face of peer pressure and societal expectations. Mentorship combats this decline by offering:
1. Supportive Relationships
Girls build trust with mentors, which creates a safe space to ask questions, share fears, and receive validation.
2. Exposure to Role Models
Seeing women from all walks of life—engineers, entrepreneurs, community leaders—helps girls dream bigger.
3. Improved Confidence
Mentors encourage girls to try new things, reflect on accomplishments, and set meaningful goals.
4. Better Communication Skills
Group discussions and guided activities improve listening, speaking, and collaboration.
5. Stronger Emotional Resilience
Through shared stories, girls learn they are not alone and can overcome setbacks with support and perseverance.
Mentors Benefit Too
Mentorship is a two-way street. Women who serve as mentors often report higher levels of fulfillment, purpose, and community connection. For many, mentoring becomes a way to give back and “pay forward” the guidance they once received—or wish they had.
In Alberta, where women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles, mentorship is also a powerful networking and community-building tool.
Local Insight:
“The first time I shared my story, I was nervous. But the girls listened with open hearts. That day, I realized how healing and empowering mentorship is—for both of us.”
— Sara, Edmonton mentor with Girls on Fire
How Girls on Fire Is Leading the Way
Girls on Fire isn’t just a martial arts program—it’s a full-circle mentorship ecosystem. With annual Confidence Conferences and the 8-week Sparklers Mentorship Program, it brings girls and women together in a safe, structured environment.
The Pillars of the Sparklers Program:
- Creativity & Happiness – Encouraging self-expression through art and dream-building.
- Health & Wellness – Fostering body positivity and mental health awareness.
- Community – Promoting inclusivity, teamwork, and leadership.
- Self-Defense & Combat – Teaching practical safety skills and confidence.
- Growth Mindset & Goal Setting – Helping girls visualize success and work toward it.
Each session ends with a celebration of achievements—often with a board-breaking ceremony that symbolizes breaking through self-doubt and fear.
How to Get Involved in Alberta
If you’re a parent, mentor, or supporter who wants to get involved with mentorship for girls in Alberta, here are a few steps:
For Parents:
- Enroll your daughter in upcoming Girls on Fire events in Edmonton or Red Deer
- Follow Girls on Fire on Instagram for inspiration and updates
- Talk to your daughter about the power of having a mentor
For Women Interested in Mentoring:
- Apply to be a Torchbearer through girlsonfire.ca
- Share your professional and personal experiences in guided workshops
- Help girls see the value of community and shared strength
For Community Partners:
- Sponsor a local girl or host an empowerment event
- Partner with Girls on Fire to offer locations, materials, or cross-promotion
- Feature Girls on Fire in school newsletters or community bulletins
Final Thoughts: Lighting the Path Forward
Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the next generation of women. By sharing their stories, experiences, and strength, Alberta’s women are giving young girls something priceless: the permission to be confident, capable, and proud of who they are.
Whether you’re a parent looking for support for you daughter or a woman ready to lead, Girls on Fire offers a place to connect, grow, and ignite something truly life-changing.