Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Cervetti
Hi Jay, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story starts with a story. I aimed to write a story that encourages young girls, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, a poem was downloaded inside of me. I crafted illustrations that highlighted the powerful words of the poem, giving birth to the narrative of How Black Girls Grow. I believe the Holy Spirit then guided me to transform the concepts of How Black Girls Grow into a program designed to nurture young girls spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
How Black Girls Grow believes that girls develop into well-rounded women when they are planted in faith, rooted in the Word, and watered with love. We have been actively serving young ladies in the Memphis community for four seasons now, and each season has been a remarkable testament to God’s faithfulness in our program.
How Black Girls Grow offers spiritual mentorship and life skills development, providing our girls with new experiences that empower them to envision the endless possibilities available to them. We emphasize the importance of community service, teaching the value of giving without expecting anything in return.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This journey has presented numerous challenges, accompanied by feelings of discouragement and uncertainty. We often questioned whether we would attract members, how we would fund our big ideas, and faced the emotional weight of rejection. However, we always return to our purpose. This concept was entrusted to me by my Heavenly Father, and I find immense comfort in knowing that where He provides vision, He has already made provision. If Howblackgirls can positively impact just one young lady, I truly believe it would create a significant difference in making the world a better place.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am creative at heart and enjoy solving problems in innovative ways. I also believe that a significant part of my purpose is to serve others. I earned my bachelor’s degree in applied exercise science, followed by an internship in occupational and physical therapy. After completing my undergraduate studies, I became an experiential teacher for three years, working with various elementary grade levels. Encouraged by the Holy Spirit, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in mental health counseling and am currently just two and a half semesters away from graduation. All these experiences have reinforced my belief that our spiritual health is closely connected to our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Through my secondary program, Linked Anatomy, we aim to educate our community on the importance of understanding this concept for achieving true holistic healing in our lives. I genuinely love learning, not only in the classroom but also through life experiences and interactions with others. I believe this passion distinguishes me from others. My ears are open, ready to listen and absorb knowledge.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Some of my fondest childhood memories stem from working alongside my aunt, who is a nurse. I had the wonderful opportunity to accompany her to various assisted living environments, where I observed her work and assisted her with her clients. From these experiences, I believe I learned patience and empathy, which helped uncover my purpose to serve. She worked closely with clients who had mental and physical disabilities, and I realized that this role required dedication that not everyone could manage. However, witnessing her approach, filled with care and compassion, ignited something within me, even as a young child.
I also cherished the moments spent watching my mother apply her makeup in the car, multitasking to ensure her children were where they needed to be while also preparing herself. Though it could be a bit chaotic at times, I have fond memories of helping her by passing her different makeup products. As I reflect on this memory, I realize that despite the chaos occurring inside the car, my mother always carried herself with poise and confidence when she stepped out and closed the door. No one would have guessed the hectic journeys that had preceded us.
Lastly, I treasure the exposure my grandfather provided to my younger brother and me. He instilled in me a deep appreciation for history and discovery, as well as a love for classical music and the arts. Without these enriching experiences, I wouldn’t be the well-rounded young woman I am today.
My entire life has uniquely equipped me for the work I am privileged to do through HowBlackGirlsGrow. My character development, academic achievements, challenges, adversities, and spiritual growth embody the core pillars on which HowBlackGirlsGrow was founded. I was planted in faith, rooted in the word, and genuinely watered with love. I aspire to contribute by helping to plant, root, and water the young ladies who participate in HowBlackGirlsGrow, witnessing them blossom into the incredible individuals God has destined them to be.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @howblackgirlsgrow
- Other: howblackgirlsgrow@gmail.com
