Jovana Jenkins is making waves in the world of mentorship by addressing the often overlooked trauma in mother-daughter relationships. As the founder of G.I.R.L.S Can Inc., Jenkins is dedicated to helping young girls who are struggling with difficult family dynamics. Her organization offers a lifeline to those who might otherwise be without the resources or support they need.
A Movement Born From Personal Pain
Jenkins’s journey to founding G.I.R.L.S Can Inc. was deeply personal. She grew up in an environment marked by a strained relationship with her mother, which left her with emotional scars. These experiences fueled her passion for creating a space where young girls could heal from similar wounds.
“The motherhood wound is something that has allowed me to pour into this movement,” Jenkins shared. She recognized that, while there’s much discussion about the role of fathers in the Black community, the complexities of motherhood often go unexamined. Jenkins is determined to change that narrative, creating a space where girls can address their traumas without feeling ashamed.
Holding Space for Healing and Growth
Jenkins emphasizes that her goal is not to condemn mothers but to understand and address the trauma that may exist in these relationships. She acknowledges that many mothers might be grappling with their own unresolved issues, which can spill over into their interactions with their daughters. This can be particularly challenging for young girls who compare their lives to others they see on social media, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation.
To combat this, Jenkins organizes events and programs through G.I.R.L.S Can Inc. across New York City, including in underserved areas like Brownsville, Brooklyn. These initiatives provide a safe space for girls to explore their emotions, recognize harmful patterns, and work toward healthier futures.
Breaking the Cycle of Trauma
Jenkins is passionate about helping young girls understand that their circumstances do not define them. She shares her own story of growing up in survival mode, a mindset she only began to unpack years later.
“I definitely was raised on survival, and it really didn’t resonate with me until years later,” Jenkins reflected. She is determined to break the cycle of trauma in her own family and is using her experiences to guide other girls on a similar journey. By offering mentorship and support, Jenkins is helping young girls develop the tools they need to overcome their past and build a brighter future.
Creating Safe Spaces for Future Generations
Through G.I.R.L.S Can Inc., Jenkins is creating a community where young girls can find mentors who understand their struggles and can offer guidance. She believes that seeing someone who has overcome similar challenges can be incredibly empowering for these girls.
Jenkins is particularly focused on connecting participants with younger mentors, believing that their stories will resonate more strongly with the girls in her program. By showing these young girls that they are not alone, Jenkins is helping them to see their worth and to envision a future that is not limited by their past.
