Sisters Keepers Builds a Global Sisterhood to Empower Black Girls

by Hannah Claggett, Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of Sisters Keepers.

Sisters Keepers was founded in response to the critical lack of mentorship and representation for Black girls aged 12 to 18. Its mission is to create transformative opportunities for young women through leadership development, mentorship, and global connection. With active programs in Reston and Ghana—and plans to expand into Kenya and Nigeria—Sisters Keepers is building a powerful network that centers Black girls' voices and equips them to lead in their communities and beyond.

Each year, Sisters Keepers brings women to Ghana for a year-long residency to mentor and inspire young girls. This commitment was sparked, in part, by founder Violet Pearson’s experience nearly two decades ago in the World Economic Forum’s “Young Global Leaders” program, where she was challenged to create the space she believed was missing: a platform rooted in Black girls’ leadership, healing, and self-expression.

The organization’s impact is both global and local. Sisters Keepers recognizes that the challenges facing at-risk Black girls—such as limited access to education, gender-based violence, and systemic silencing—transcend borders. In Ghana, the organization works to train justice systems to better address cases of sexual assault and domestic violence. In Reston, it supports survivors and at-risk youth with safety, mentorship, and opportunity. Pearson meets these girls where they are, offering not just programming but also lived empathy.

Photo courtesy of Sisters Keepers.

A six-week training institute, culminating in a leadership summit, recruits girls to engage in community service, leadership development, and mentorship. Sisters Keepers also provides scholarships, school supplies, and essential resources—with 100% of donations going directly to support the girls. Pearson’s consulting company contributes 30% of its profits to fund the organization’s mission.

One of Sisters Keepers’ greatest strengths is its adaptability. Mentors come from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds—including Ivy League institutions—and are trained to support girls across cultures. Many program graduates return as mentors, creating a sustainable cycle of leadership.

At the heart of Pearson’s leadership philosophy is “ciocracy”—the belief that everyone can lead. Rather than relying on rigid hierarchies, Sisters Keepers fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment where mistakes are part of growth and every girl’s voice matters.

Whether through local Sister Circles in Reston or international partnerships, Pearson’s vision remains clear: to create a world where every Black girl can step fully into her power—seen, supported, and unstoppable.