Guest blog: An Unforgettable Panel on Empowering Girls in Sports
This blog is guest-written by Racquel Henderson, EPIC for Girls
Imagine an afternoon where your presence not only amplifies voices but also transforms futures.
Join EPIC for Girls on Friday, September 20th, from 12:00-1:30 PM at the Venue at the Highlander for a dynamic panel discussion featuring Dr. Tragil Wade, Markeshia Grant, and Raven Johnson, who will share their insights on building positive team culture, supporting all girls—especially girls of color—and how sports create pathways for success.
This event brings together thought leaders, trailblazers, and game-changers who are paving the way for girls to thrive in sports and beyond. Dr. Tragil Wade, sister and manager of NBA star Dwyane Wade, has spent years advocating for youth and family development. Markeshia Grant, Founder and CEO of Savvy Skills, LLC is dedicated to helping athletes transform the way they think about life and sports through progressive forward thinking and transformative action. And Raven Johnson, a member of the undefeated University of South Carolina Gamecocks and the 2024 NCAA Champion, will offer her unique perspective on overcoming challenges in sports and life.
Why is this conversation so critical?
The disparities faced by BIPOC girls in sports are significant:
- Girls of color in sports face unique challenges to include Limited access to Resources, stereotypes & cultural barriers, lack of representation, and financial constraints.
- Girls from lower socio-economic classes and racial/ethnic minorities report reduced levels of physical activity compared to their white counterparts.
- Systemic barriers exist such as pay-to-play fees, constrained school budgets, and lack of diverse coaches.
- In leadership, in 2021 only 7% of women’s coaches were BIPOC.
EPIC for Girls is stepping in to level this playing field. As an organization dedicated to closing the sports equity gap for girls of color, EPIC is creating pathways for success by partnering with local organizations to provide resources, program support and leadership development.
Your support matters. By attending this event, you will help uplift the next generation of female athletes and drive EPIC's mission forward. Your participation will help ensure that every girl—regardless of race, background, or income—has the opportunity to compete, grow, and succeed.
Don’t miss this powerful conversation. Reserve your spot today and be part of the movement to create lasting change in the lives of young girls through sports.
Can’t attend? Consider donating to support EPIC for Girls’ ongoing work to ensure girls of color have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Mark your calendars for September 20th and join us for an empowering afternoon that you won’t want to miss!