Brave, Bright & Just Getting Started – Aria’s Story
At just 12 years old, Aria Witherspoon reminds us that bravery isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it shows up in quiet self-awareness, a desire to grow, and a heart that cares deeply for others.
A sixth grader at Fairview Middle School, Aria is joining the Boss Babe Academy this summer with a goal many young girls share but often struggle to say out loud:
“I’ve been wanting to build confidence more. That’s probably the main thing I’m excited about.”
The Silent Crisis: Mental Health in Middle School
Aria’s story reflects a growing reality: mental health challenges are showing up earlier than ever before. According to the CDC, teen girls are experiencing record levels of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness, with symptoms often beginning between ages 10–13.
Middle school is more than just an “awkward phase”—it’s a critical time for identity formation, when girls begin forming beliefs about their value, voice, and future.
“When someone asks me a question in class, or the teacher calls on me, I try to answer, but I don’t always know how. I want to get over that.”
That hesitation Aria described? It's a reflection of how many girls feel—unsure, unseen, and silenced by their own fear of being judged. If left unaddressed, these feelings can turn into deeper self-doubt, anxiety, and social isolation.
Social Media & Self-Worth
When asked what girls at her school struggle with the most, Aria responded quickly:
“Probably how they look… because there’s such thing as puberty now.”
Her words are simple, but they speak to a much bigger issue: body image and comparison culture. In the age of TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, girls are growing up with a constant stream of filtered perfection and unreachable beauty standards.
Even if a girl doesn’t use social media herself, she’s surrounded by classmates who do—and those messages trickle down fast. Confidence is quietly chipped away by unrealistic expectations, leaving girls to question if they measure up.
Why Boss Babe Academy Matters
Boss Babe Academy was created for girls just like Aria. Girls who are observant, intelligent, and ready to grow—but don’t always know how or where to start.
Over the course of the four day program, the Academy offers:
Confidence – Tools to reframe negative self-talk and speak boldly
Business & Leadership – Lessons in networking, relationship building, and communication
Mental Health Awareness – Safe conversations about anxiety, self care, and emotional strength
Self-Expression – Creative outlets like fashion, journaling, movement, and storytelling
Aria noted that she’s tried something similar things before, but said Boss Babe Academy already feels different.
From California to Colorado – A Journey Just Beginning
Aria wasn’t expecting to be part of Boss Babe Academy this year, but the opportunity came—and she said yes.
“I didn’t expect it to happen. But I’m excited joining it.”
We’re more than excited to having her. We’re honored.
With her thoughtful presence, willingness to be vulnerable, and desire to help others, Aria Witherspoon is already a Boss Babe in the making. And as she grows, we know she’ll bring others with her.
If you have a daughter age 11-18, we highly encourage you to sign her up for the Boss Babe Academy. Spaces are filling up quickly.
“To Aria and Girls Everywhere:
You belong here.
Your voice matters.
Your story is powerful.
Welcome to The Boss Babe Academy! Let’s build something beautiful together.”
