Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Prima Girl Mentorship Program held its annual pinning ceremony for the class of 2024 on May 17 at the Encore at the Strand Theatre.

More than 17 girls graduated from the program, which is a five-month faith-based mentorship program designed to teach young ladies – ages 12-21 – how to become empowered, independent and successful women, according to Advance archives.

Executive Director Nicole Jones said each cycle is unique.

“Each cycle presents a new personality for the young girls,” Jones said.

President Marlo Young thanked the parents, school staff and all who have helped them with the young ladies.

Vice President Cordia Lee echoed her thanked as well.

“Without you, this day would not have happened,” Lee said.

During the program, the girls had the opportunity to express themselves through art.

The Alabama State Council on the Arts provided the arts grant. Cee New Counseling’s Rachel Chambers instructed and taught the girls various forms of art expression in the flex room at the Encore.

As a thank you for his efforts for the program, Jones, Young and Lee presented Escambia County Middle School Principal Forrest Jones with a special award.

After each girl was pinned, Young offered some words of encouragement.

“Embrace knowledge and guidance offered by your mentors,” Young said. “You are surrounded by a network of encouragement and support.”