On Saturday, February 22, 2025, Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta, in partnership with the Austell Community Taskforce, FACES Inc., Rho Xi Zeta Chapter Youth Auxiliary, and Zeta Amicae of Kennesaw, GA, hosted the “Orange You Empowered” Safety Summit. This impactful event took place at the South Cobb Recreation Center from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, bringing together community organizations, experts, and attendees for a day focused on empowerment, safety, and education.

The summit featured two panel discussions, five live demonstrations, three interactive workshops, and a variety of wellness and community vendors. With a total of 137 registrants, the event provided a platform for essential conversations surrounding personal safety, self-defense, and awareness.

Workshops and Expert-Led Discussions

The event’s workshops provided attendees with critical knowledge and real-world applications for staying safe in various environments:

1. “How Does a Predator Operate?” – Led by Investigator Roger Burkhart of South Fulton Police, this workshop delved into the tactics used by sexual predators, helping attendees understand the warning signs and strategies to protect themselves and others.
2. “Club Etiquette” – Hosted by Vaneesah “Vee” Bahar, this session addressed predatory behaviors that occur in nightlife settings and offered practical advice on situational awareness, bystander intervention, and personal safety in social environments.
3. “Safety in My Home” – Presented by Karen Glenn, Keisha Head, and Jessica Fraizer, this powerful workshop featured testimonies from sex trafficking survivors, highlighting the importance of a secure home environment and the long-term effects of safety—or lack thereof—on individuals and communities.

Live Demonstrations and Community Engagement

In addition to the workshops, the summit featured five interactive safety demonstrations led by Skye Walton of Divas in Defence, allowing attendees to gain hands-on experience with self-defense techniques and emergency response strategies. Community and organizational vendors were also present, providing valuable resources on mental health, wellness, and advocacy.

The summit served as an invaluable space for young women and families to learn, connect, and strengthen their understanding of personal safety. By equipping attendees with knowledge and proactive strategies, Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta continues to lead the charge in empowering young women to navigate the world with confidence and resilience.

Looking Ahead

Girls Inc. remains committed to fostering safe and supportive environments for young women in Atlanta. Stay connected with us to learn about future workshops, educational events, and initiatives aimed at strengthening safety and wellness in our communities.

Together, we are creating a safer, more empowered future for the next generation.