Celebrating 15 Years of Empowering Black Girls through Mentorship, Leadership and Community Impact
For 15 years, Ladies of Virtue has been rooted in one powerful belief: Strong leadership is built on strong character.
Founded in Chicago by CEO and founder Jamila Trimuel, the organization prepares Black girls ages 9 to 24 to succeed academically, professionally and personally while cultivating confidence, purpose and civic leadership.
As it marks its 15th anniversary, the organization is launching “The Year of Virtue,” a yearlong initiative celebrating its impact and expanding its reach beyond Chicago. LOV Day, traditionally held during Black History Month and Valentine’s Day, will go national for the first time through partnerships in Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, bringing its focus on self-love, affirmation and community care to more girls across the country.
Trimuel said mentorship plays a critical role in supporting girls, particularly those who may lack consistent guidance.
“I really look at mentoring as a way to stand in the gap for girls who may not have positive role models in their lives,” she said. “Even if they do, we help serve as that village by providing resources and opportunities they need to succeed.”
The organization’s impact continues to grow across Chicago through mentorship and community outreach. In 2025, Ladies of Virtue served more than 3,000 women and girls. Of those, 643 participated directly in mentoring and leadership development programs, while nearly 2,400 others were reached through broader community initiatives.
With 34 programs across 24 sites, the organization has built a network of support that produces measurable outcomes. All participants were accepted into four-year colleges or universities, and 94% secured internships or employment.
Trimuel said the organization focuses on three core areas: character development, career readiness and civic engagement. Participants take on leadership roles in their schools and communities, serve as ambassadors, speak publicly and contribute to advisory councils.
“We’re providing our girls with opportunities where they may not have had before to step outside of their comfort zone,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of addressing the unique challenges Black girls face, particularly at the intersection of race and gender.
“Research shows Black girls are often perceived as needing less nurturing and support than their peers,” Trimuel said. “That perception is disheartening, because we know it’s not reality.”
The organization’s long-term impact is reflected in the success of its participants. Dr. Deidra L. Bibbs, one of the program’s earliest participants, is now the first in her family to earn a Ph.D. in school psychology. After being introduced to the field through mentorship, she now gives back by co-leading an advocacy initiative focused on restorative practices in Chicago Public Schools.
Brittany Taylor, now a program manager, has been involved with the organization for more than a decade, beginning as a volunteer. She now oversees programming, including the Saturday Institute and summer initiatives designed to prepare participants for academic and professional success.
Programs such as the Power to the Professional Boot Camp help high school students develop skills in networking, interviewing and workplace etiquette. The organization also prioritizes summer employment for girls ages 16 and older.
Another initiative, Beautiful During the Summertime, introduces participants to STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — careers through hands-on learning experiences and exposure to professionals in various fields.
“Exposure is key,” Taylor said. “You can’t become what you haven’t seen.”
For participants, Ladies of Virtue offers more than mentorship — it provides a sense of community. High school senior Lexi Turner said the program helped her overcome shyness and build confidence in public speaking and leadership.
“It’s like a strong sisterhood,” Turner said. “I went from barely speaking to now doing interviews and leading in my school.”
Participants also benefit from safe spaces that encourage open conversations about mental health, relationships and personal challenges. Summer Field said the program has helped her grow by surrounding her with strong, confident women who push her to step outside her comfort zone.
“I’m surrounded by confident women who inspire me every day,” Field said. “They’ve shown me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”
As Ladies of Virtue marks 15 years, its impact continues to extend beyond mentorship, shaping future leaders, strengthening communities and creating lasting opportunities for Black girls to thrive.
