In a world where creativity often intersects with adversity, my journey through the construction and artistic realms has been a testament to resilience and empowerment. Facing challenges head-on, I have honed my skills in both art and craftsmanship, motivated by a deep-seated belief that every individual deserves a platform to express their ideas and talents. As a mentor, I am committed to transforming this belief into action, inspiring youth to embrace their potential and carve out their own paths in a world that can sometimes be unwelcoming.
My journey has not been without challenges. I have spent much of my life in the construction field, gaining knowledge about tools and processes to enhance my artistic abilities. Although I faced frustrations and was often overlooked, this fueled a determination inside of me. Everyone deserves a voice and a place where their ideas are valued.
As a mentor, I empower youth through hands-on learning, which is crucial for personal empowerment. As a sculptor and educator, I teach various tools and techniques to instill confidence and self-reliance in individuals. Beginning a career in male-dominated environments, I often felt that my voice was stifled. This ignited a desire to change the narrative for the next generation, which is why I work with the Young Women of Toledo.
As an instructor, I teach youth how to use tools, enabling them to build a chair and bring their own seat to the table. Witnessing their curiosity and empowerment as they learn is incredibly rewarding. When they use a power drill or measure wood, it symbolizes breaking barriers and reshaping their identities. I want them to understand that they can create and lead, regardless of societal expectations. My mission extends beyond technical skills; I strive to create a supportive community where students collaborate and celebrate their successes.
Ultimately, being a mentor is about transformation—of lives and communities. I am dedicated to nurturing confidence, courage, and capability in the next generation. I want to help them find their voices and mentor them effectively to build a more optimistic future. Every obstacle I have faced has shaped who I am to empower others.
**Julia LaBay is currently the Girls Hub Instructor for our Young Women of Toledo. She teaches our young women the power of using tools and building their own seat at the table. We are grateful for her talents and wisdom in helping mentor our fearless builders. Thank you, Julia!
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