South Lakes students connect with seniors through GlamourGals

By Ellyn Wexler, staff writer

GlamourGals South Lakes founder Zahra Nikzad poses with a Brightview Great Falls resident. Photo by Azza Ali

When Zahra Nikzad launched a chapter of the nonprofit GlamourGals at South Lakes High School in 2025, she hoped to make a meaningful difference. Unable to visit her own grandmother, who lives in another country, she saw an opportunity to reach out to seniors in her local community. The idea felt ambitious, but she was drawn to the organization’s mission: bringing teens and seniors together to build lasting relationships through small acts of kindness.

“It’s about showing up,” Nikzad said. “That’s what makes the difference.”

GlamourGals, a national nonprofit with 162 chapters, pairs students with seniors for hands-on grooming sessions and companionship. The program aims to combat social isolation and foster intergenerational bonds. Students help seniors feel confident and appreciated through thoughtful attention, whether painting nails, styling hair or sharing a relaxed conversation over tea. For Nikzad, the most rewarding moments come from seeing seniors light up when someone listens, laughs or takes the time to engage.

A resident at Brightview Great Falls shows off her manicure alongside GlamourGals volunteers Charlotte Kaple and Lily Bowen. Photo by Zahra Nikzad

Treasurer Noor Atiya never expected that a simple manicure or conversation could spark such meaningful connections. “I thought it was just about doing nails, but it’s so much more,” she said. “Even a smile or kind word can brighten someone’s day and teaches patience, empathy and the value of listening.”

Vice President Mena Yacob agreed. “It’s not about the nails or the hair,” she said. “It’s about building real relationships. Listening to their stories, laughing at their jokes and learning from their experiences—those are the moments that stay with you.”

For many students, GlamourGals has been a chance to step outside their own routines and gain perspective. “I’ve been struck by the humor and resilience of the seniors I meet,” said club member Azza Ali. “They tell stories you’d never hear in school and they have this amazing ability to find joy in little things.”

Students often bring personal touches to their sessions, such as themed nail art, crafts or favorite music. Nikzad said these gestures deepen connections and leave lasting impressions. Books, games or personal photos from students’ lives often spark laughter and conversation, creating bonds that extend beyond the time together.

Nikzad observed students applying nail polish while chatting with residents, laughing over shared stories and gentle teasing. One initially shy resident lit up when a student asked to see her favorite family photos. She proudly showed the photos and told stories about her grandchildren, a moment that showed these experiences are equally rewarding for seniors and students. Nikzad said she’s seen how these visits lift spirits and encourage conversation among residents.

GlamourGal volunteer Azza Ali works on a manicure for a resident of t Brightview Great Falls. Photo by Zahra Nikzad

Through these interactions, students say they’ve grown more confident, compassionate and aware of the challenges seniors face. “You realize that gestures of attention and support can make a real impact,” Nikzad said. “It’s motivating to see that what we do matters, not just for the seniors but for ourselves too.”

In just a few months, South Lakes’ GlamourGals chapter has grown from a single idea into a lively program that bridges generations. More than a club, it’s a place where students and seniors connect, swap stories, share laughs and spread a little joy, proving that even small acts of kindness can leave a big mark.