“I believe the children are our future…” these lyrics from the song, Greatest Love Of All, originally recorded in 1977 by George Benson, became even more well known for a version by Whitney Houston, whose 1985 cover eventually topped the charts. But these words are more than just lyrics in an amazing song, at least for CEO & Founder, Maurine Kwende, MA, MEd, PHR, CTP they represent a belief that has inspired her to create an academy that is serving the youth of the DMV area.

The Dream Big and Boldly Academy is a safe space and community of like-minded people passionate about taking action towards fulfilling their dreams. Inspired by and named after her book, Dream Big and Live Your Dreams Boldly, the academy was initially for women. Maurine, however, saw the need to open up this academy for girls and launched DBBA Future Women Leaders’ programs. “I see that for young girls that looked like me, whatever the world throws at them, they embrace it and become whatever people say they are. Many young girls cannot speak with confidence and look someone in the eye when speaking. I wanted to expand my program to help these young girls gain confidence and become future leaders.” said Maurine in our interview.

The 4 week program for girls ages 8 to 14 focuses on various topics such as confidence, competence, communication, and leadership. It helps young ladies determine how they see themselves and who they want to be. The mentorship program expands to the age of 16 and is for an entire year.

Maurine is encouraging parents of minority girls to look into this program for your daughters. Her message doesn’t stop there. She also wants parents to embrace when their daughters have powerful personalities. Instead of stifling them with telling them to be quiet, allow them a safe space to be free to tap into their inner leadership abilities.

Maurine’s message to the community, especially to women, is this: “let’s hold each other’s hands so that we all stand up and make a difference.”

Learn more about Dream Big and Live Your Dreams Boldly