The first group of young women from the Girls Ref the World (GRoW) Academy, an EPIC for Girls (epicforgirls.org) and J’s Braintrust initiative, graduated in November at the Village Empowerment Center in Omaha. The celebration wasn’t just about their achievement – it marked a huge leap forward in bringing diversity to sports officiating.
Following their graduation, these young women are now registered with the Nebraska School Activities Association and are stepping into the world of sports officiating. The success of this first cohort is a positive indicator for future endeavors in fostering inclusive representation in sports administration.
This achievement by the GRoW Academy is part of a broader initiative by EPIC for Girls, which aims to empower BIPOC girls in sports, education and mentorship through its community partnerships. EPIC for Girls, in collaboration with J’s Braintrust, Lozafina Marketing and Public Relations and EgoFree Golf, is currently offering three unique internship opportunities for young women aged 14-24. These programs are designed to provide black and brown girls with the necessary tools and resources to build confidence, develop essential life skills and break barriers in fields traditionally dominated by men.
For more information about the Girls Ref the World Academy, EPIC for Girls and their other programs, or to participate in these internship opportunities, visit epicforgirls.org.