I Am She Girls Mentoring By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Vanessa R. Caswell Vanessa Caswell-Rodgers of Memphis, TN, is a woman of faith, resilience, and abundant possibilities. She is the founder of I Am She Girls Mentoring, a nonprofit organization that assists young girls between the ages of (8-18) in achieving their best despite challenges they may face. Her organization also helps these young ladies deal with childhood trauma, drug abuse, peer pressure, homelessness, and low self-esteem. I Am She Girls Mentoring partners with other organizations and schools (including principals and counselors) to provide the best plan that meets the needs of the youth. Presently, Vanessa mentors students and works with three schools in the Frayser community of Memphis. “I Am She mentors young women by reminding all Queens who they are and how to display and portray the beauty within,” Vanessa says. “We offer various classes and workshops, including etiquette, self-esteem, self-confidence, and character building. Furthermore, we help our Queens set goals and discover their purpose.” Vanessa was raised by her grandparents in what she describes as a large family setting. Family is essential to Vanessa. She is the sibling of a twin sister and has many other brothers and sisters. She shares her life with her husband, Eric Rogers.
“I was once a woman with low self-esteem, but I learned to overcome my obstacles, stand tall, and tell my story while inspiring others.”
Vanessa graduated from Memphis Tech High School in 1985. She also completed her studies at Stage One Hair School, Shelby State College, and Tennessee State University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Serving her community is something that Vanessa is honored to do, and she accepts it with a great deal of responsibility. She shares, “I started serving my community in 2017 by working with my brother’s organization, Legacy Of Legends. I helped by providing wrap-around services to many children and their families. From then on, I’ve been serving and supporting other nonprofit organizations.”
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