To honor and celebrate Black Legacy Month and kick off Women’s History Month, we’re thrilled to announce Lulus’ collaboration with Gyrl Wonder, a non-profit organization founded by Tola Lawal that is dedicated to uplifting ambitious young women of color. Gyrl Wonder’s mission encompasses the core values that are at the heart of Lulus and embody the principles of inclusivity, commitment, and continuous improvement: All Voices, All In, Always Evolving. As we pledged in 2020, Lulus remains steadfast in our commitment to amplifying and supporting organizations that empower women, particularly women of color.
Together with Gyrl Wonder, we’re embarking on a journey to invest in and cultivate the next generation of leaders. Through this collaboration, we will create opportunities of access for the Gyrl Wonder mentees, bridging the career gap for young women of color by allowing them to explore their passions and develop their skills.
At Lulus, we believe in elevating every woman and ensuring she feels beautiful, celebrated, and empowered–as if she’s the most special version of herself for every occasion. That’s why we are so excited to be working with Gyrl Wonder, an organization that equips young women with the necessary professional toolkits to propel their futures forward. We want to help women feel their best during pivotal times in their lives and careers–and through this collaboration, we’re able to do just that.
Insights from Gyrl Wonder’s Founder, Tola Lawal
For a deeper look at this organization and its transformative impact, our SVP of Brand Marketing, Patrick Buchanan, sat down with Tola Lawal, the visionary founder of Gyrl Wonder. Read on for their conversation to hear more about Tola’s thoughts, aspirations, and the meaningful change we aim to achieve together.
Patrick Buchanan: Can you tell our audience a little more about Gyrl Wonder and the incredible work you do?
Tola Lawal: Rooted in career development, mentorship, and wellness, GW serves as a professional pipeline organization dedicated to bridging the gap between young women of color and their dream careers in media, entertainment, fashion, and beauty. We also help corporations diversify their entry level talent pools.
Our key programming includes:
#GyrlGetHired – the professional development arm of Gyrl Wonder that transforms our gyrls into career women. Optimizing a 360 career coaching approach including panels, workshops and access, GGH is designed to fortify each gyrl’s work acumen for internship and job opportunities.
Gyrl Wonder Leadership Academy – Week-long camp introducing the Gyrl Wonder mentees to different career paths as they visit different companies each day. Past companies include: Dior, Netflix, Paramount, Atlantic Records, Indeed, Cosmopolitan, and more.
Wholistically Me – Our ode to mental health as we recognized that for our gyrls to show up as their best selves in both school and in the workforce, we must ensure that they develop the tools to manage past traumas and any present issues threatening the health of their emotional wellbeing.
Just Flow With It – Our public health program that addresses period poverty among young women of color in the United States.
Gyrl Power In Real Life Scholarship Fund – Gyrl Wonder is committed to relieving some of the financial burden brought on by the cost of college with the Gyrl Wonder IRL Scholarship Fund.
PB: What inspired you to create Gyrl Wonder and how has your mission evolved over the years?
TL: Gyrl Wonder was born with the intent to create opportunities of access for young women of color who were interested in creative career paths but were unsure on how to get there. I felt like there were a number of organizations that supported STEAM, STEM but not many for the creative kids. I wanted to introduce young women of color to roles that they didn’t know existed.
We started out as a professional development organization but have since grown into one of the most respected pipeline orgs helping companies diversify their entry level talent pool. Nine years in, we have a community of over 20k young women and supporters galvanizing to create these opportunities for the next generation of gyrl leaders in the creative industries.
PB: When I was growing up there weren’t a lot of opportunities and mentors, which is why I love the work you’re doing. Why do you think organizations like Gyrl Wonder are important?
TL: Organizations like Gyrl Wonder are super important and play a crucial role in today’s society by empowering young girls of color. Through intentional programming, mentorship initiatives, and community-building efforts, organizations like Gyrl Wonder provide essential resources and support systems while preparing the next generation of leaders. We emphasize the importance of representation and diversity in leadership roles, inspiring girls from all backgrounds to pursue their aspirations with confidence. By offering educational opportunities, skills development workshops, and networking events, they equip girls with the knowledge and tools necessary for personal and professional success. It’s important to have organizations like Gyrl Wonder because joining these communities foster a sense of belonging and connection, creating supportive networks where experiences, advice, and encouragement can be shared!
PB: What are Gyrl Wonder’s goals and plans for future growth and impact?
TL: Next year marks 10 years of doing this work and it feels like we are just getting started. We have huge goals for year 10 that include:
- Securing 100 internships and early career opportunities for our mentees
- Encouraging 100 gyrls to sign up for mental health support
- Launch our international arm #GyrlGoneGlobal
Gyrl Wonder’s goals revolve around empowering young girls of color, preparing them for the next step in their lives, creating opportunities for their growth and success while diversifying corporate america! Looking ahead, Gyrl Wonder plans to expand its impact globally by introducing international programming, and encouraging gyrls to sign up for mental wellness support.
One key aspect of Gyrl Wonder’s future growth involves creating more access and opportunities for young girls of color, particularly in areas such as jobs, internships, and mental health support. By partnering with organizations, businesses, and institutions, Gyrl Wonder aims to facilitate pathways to employment and professional development for girls of color. This includes providing mentorship, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities to help them thrive in their chosen fields.
Lastly, Gyrl Wonder recognizes the importance of addressing mental health issues among young girls, especially those from marginalized communities. As part of its future plans, the organization intends to expand its programming to include mental health support services and resources tailored to the unique needs of girls of color. By prioritizing mental wellness and resilience, Gyrl Wonder aims to equip girls with the tools and support they need to navigate life’s challenges and pursue their dreams with confidence.
PB: I love your IG page. You feature some incredible affirmations. What mantra do you live by?
TL: In Gyrl Wonderland we are devoted to Gyrl Power, In Real Life. To us, Gyrl Power IRL, represents the power that comes from supporting each other emphatically, clapping for every gyrl winning, and understanding that lighting the next woman’s candle does not dim your own. It’s about genuinely being a girls’ girl, loving and supporting each other IN REAL LIFE. Gyrl Power is something we truly believe in. It is reflected in every facet of the Gyrl Wonder community.
PB: I bet everyone is wondering like me, how can I get involved. How do you recommend supporting Gyrl Wonder’s mission and incredible work?
TL: There are several ways to support Gyrl Wonder. Firstly, spreading awareness by sharing our mission, events, and accomplishments on social media platforms can significantly increase visibility and attract potential supporters. Donating funds or resources directly to the organization enables us to continue our vital work, whether it’s funding educational programs, providing mentorship opportunities, or hosting community events.
Volunteering time and expertise can also make a significant impact, whether it’s through mentoring, assisting with events, or offering professional skills such as marketing or fundraising assistance. Ultimately, any form of support, whether big or small, contributes to empowering girls of color and advancing the organization’s mission.
- Donate to support the cause
- Follow us on all platforms at Gyrl Wonder
- Support our community service initiatives
To learn more and get involved, head to GyrlWonder.org!
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