For many young girls, growing up comes with challenges that extend far beyond the classroom. They are navigating identity, relationships, confidence, and emotional well-being. In Tallahassee, one organization is creating a space where girls don’t have to face those challenges alone.
Founded in 2019 by Shaqualyn Shedrick, SHE Academy is a mentorship-driven program designed to support middle and high school girls as they grow into confident, self-aware young women. Built on the core values of Service, Honesty, Integrity, and Passion, SHE Academy has evolved into more than a program—it’s a sisterhood.
At its core, SHE Academy focuses on what many youth programs don’t: intentional emotional development and mentorship. Rather than centering solely on activities, the program prioritizes meaningful engagement, helping participants better understand themselves, build confidence, and develop the skills needed to navigate real-life challenges.
A Two-Generation Approach to Support
SHE Academy recognizes that supporting youth also means supporting families.
Through its Mommy’s Mental program, mothers are provided with a safe and supportive space of their own. In partnership with Florida A&M University’s School of Social Work, the program connects mothers to resources, peer support, and guided conversations, creating a parallel growth experience alongside their daughters.
This two-generation approach aligns with CSC Leon’s focus on strengthening families as a pathway to better outcomes for children.
From Awareness to Action: The Metamorphosis Summer Program
During the summer, SHE Academy offers an intensive Metamorphosis Summer Program, where participants engage four days a week in a structured journey of personal growth. Girls move through three key phases:
- Awareness – Understanding who they are and what they want
- Confidence – Learning how to respond to life’s challenges
- Activation – Putting those lessons into action
The result is not just participation, but transformation.
The Power of Investment: CSC Leon’s SIPS Support
In 2025, SHE Academy was selected as a recipient of CSC Leon’s Small Investments for Program Success (SIPS) Initiative, a targeted funding strategy designed to strengthen smaller, community-based organizations and expand their impact. This investment has already led to meaningful enhancements in the program.
Through SIPS, SHE Academy has deepened its partnership with SG Mental Health, making group therapy services available to participating girls. This critical resource is out of reach for many families. Additionally, the funding has allowed the program to:
- Provide more consistent programming and structure
- Increase access to community vendors and enrichment opportunities
- Create space for deeper, more intentional conversations with participants
This is exactly what SIPS was designed to do: remove barriers, build organizational capacity, and expand access to high-quality supports for youth and families.
A Lasting Impact
One of the strongest indicators of SHE Academy’s impact is that participants come back.
“The best part is seeing girls return,” said founder Shaqualyn Shedrick. “Because of the energy and how fulfilling the experience is, it draws them back.”
As alumni return, they bring new perspectives, new relationships, and a growing network that continues to strengthen the program’s reach.
Looking Ahead
With continued growth and community support, SHE Academy is expanding its ability to serve more girls and families across Leon County. Enrollment for upcoming programs will open soon, with opportunities for community members to get involved through mentorship, donations, and partnerships.
Shaqualyn offers this message to every young girl:
“You get what you work for, not what you wish for… the superpower is within you.”
Learn more by visiting SHE Academy online: https://www.sheacademyinc.com/.
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