The Role of an Auntie — The Seraphine Project

Typically, when I discuss the role of Global Sojourns Giving Circle that The Seraphine Project supports, the main subject is the girls. Don’t get me wrong, these teenagers are beyond incredible and I admire every single one of them. That being said, the real superwomen behind the initiatives are the female mentors that we call Aunties. Without these amazing women, the clubs would not create nearly the life-changing impact that they do.

Photo courtesy of Global Sojourns Giving Circle

The role of Aunties is to develop, run, and lead clubs while providing mentorship to girls who would otherwise have no one to look up to. The average girl who joins a club is shy and lacks confidence. After a few years of inspiring mentorship, they become powerful young women ready to conquer any challenge that comes their way. This change wouldn’t be possible without Aunties.

From the first day a new girl joins the club, the Auntie is determined to develop a deep, personal relationship with her. The Auntie makes it her top priority to become just like family and a trusted person, which is the first step to making an impact in the girl’s life. This means home visits to meet relatives and close family, 1-on-1 private discussions, and much more.

The next part of their role is integrating each girl into the club as part of the “family”. They lead many bonding activities, creative projects, and serious group discussions. Girls may enter the club without knowing anyone, and in just a couple of weeks they are surrounded by 15 of their new best friends.

Aside from the direct work and mentorship, the Aunties are constantly planning activities and programs for the girls. They treat the girls like their own children and truly have so much love for each one. The dedication and care shown by the Aunties have forever changed the lives of so many girls and the community as a whole.

These Aunties complete the circle. The Giving Circle. Once girls graduate school and go on to pursue their future endeavors, they have developed the necessary skills to become strong adult role models - even Aunties of their own clubs. Nearly 100 girls are graduating clubs yearly, many of whom will contribute as mentors in their own communities. Thanks to the impact of a great network of Aunties, the potential for these once broken communities is forever brighter. Girls who go on to become Aunties are continuing the cycle of giveback and changing the lives of others just as they experienced.

Meet some of the incredible women: