Five Portland High School seniors graduated this month from the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute, designed to develop the skills required to be leaders in their lives, careers and communities.
Casarra Abeasi, Achen Charles, Mariam Douale, Melissa Kaleka and Gloria Sanchez were among more than 150 young women leaders who graduated from the institute in ceremonies June 2 and 5. The seniors were the third class of program participants in the institute’s history. The class came from 36 high schools in all 16 Maine counties.
“Olympia’s Leaders” engage in unique programming blending statewide events, experiential activities in small groups, individual development and reflections, and tailored connections and networking with Maine’s business and community leaders. Throughout all three years, each Olympia’s Leader is supported by one or two trained volunteer advisors, who facilitate monthly activities and serve as a mentor and role model.
The Olympia’s Leaders at Portland High School were advised by Jill Sady, vice president and chief of staff to the president and CEO at the Council on International Educational Exchange, and Roxana Marrero, sales representative and cooking instructor at LeRoux Kitchen.