My YCF Experience: Becoming Who I Was Called to Be
When I think back to my time with YCF, it feels like one of those seasons where God whispered, “I’m not done with you yet.” I came into the program at a point in my life where I was juggling a lot being a mom, leading Natural Beauty Cuties, serving my community, and still trying to figure out what leadership really looked like for me. To be honest, I didn’t always feel qualified. But YCF reminded me that sometimes it’s not about feeling ready; it’s about being willing.
YCF gave me a space to breathe, to reflect, and to be poured into. It wasn’t just professional development; it was personal growth. I learned that leadership isn’t about perfection or titles it’s about showing up with authenticity, grace, and the courage to keep going even when the path doesn’t feel clear.
One of the biggest lessons I carried from YCF is that my story has power. I’ve survived things that could have broken me a life-altering car accident, moments of self-doubt, and seasons where I didn’t know if I could keep pushing forward. But instead of disqualifying me, those experiences shaped me into the kind of leader who leads with empathy, resilience, and faith. YCF helped me see that clearly.
It also gave me community. Sitting in rooms with other leaders each of us carrying our own battles, our own dreams, our own reasons for showing up reminded me that I wasn’t alone. We sharpened one another, encouraged one another, and reminded each other that impact takes time.
Today, I carry what YCF gave me into every space I walk into. Whether I’m teaching young girls about self-worth and self-care, advocating for period equity, or sitting with students who don’t see their own potential yet, I remember that leadership is service. And service, done with love, is legacy.
I’m not exactly where I want to be yet but YCF reminded me that the journey itself is proof of growth. It gave me confidence to trust my calling, patience to trust the process, and the faith to believe that my best work is still unfolding.
For that, I’ll always be grateful.
You Can’t Fail Leadership Learning Community 2023 Alumna
Natural Cutie Beauties, Owner & CEO
