From Cradle to Career: Piloting Our Apprenticeship Program

“I like the spin!” Emily and Sarabi squealed excitedly about their favorite part of their new routine,  taught by Miss Marlene, an experienced dancer in BJM’s Ignite program for high school youth. Instead of taking class from staff, the three girls are teaching and learning from each other.

This summer, BJM is piloting a five-week apprenticeship to help high school students develop leadership skills through creative arts. As rising juniors, Lindsay learns photography while Marlene teaches dance for elementary-aged girls in BJM’s Junior Dance Team. Through personalized, one-on-one coaching from staff and hands-on experience, each teen will hone her own craft, but both will learn to create, communicate, and collaborate — all transferable, lifelong skills that will prepare them to succeed in school and beyond. By the end of the program, Lindsay and Marlene will present a final project showcasing the Junior Dance Team performance, what they’ve learned about faith and leadership, and how they’ll apply these skills in the future.

As we build brighter pathways for girls, we’re excited to launch new endeavors like this apprenticeship to develop Christ-centered leaders from cradle to career.

Interested in joining our mission and community? As restrictions start to lift, we’re growing our volunteer team for our youth programs! Please visit our website to apply or email volunteer@becausejusticematters.org with questions. We’d love to hear from you!