What Does Self Love Mean?

Self Love... what does that even mean? I can tell you it's something that I have alway struggled with since I was in my teens and continue to struggle with. As a survivor of domestic violence, I've always been haunted by the thoughts that I am not good enough, pretty enough or worthy enough to be loved. I realized that I am emotionally fragile, and that I needed to find a way to take back what I had lost from the hands of my abusers.

Looking forward despite the hurt, emotional abuse, and the physical pain that I endured. I've managed to reach some major milestones in my life like graduating from college with honors, obtaining my Masters degree, modeling, winning the coveted title of Miss Hawaii USA, and starting my own nonprofit called Women Speaking Out. I was determined to create a culture that promotes self love and to teach young women to find their voices.

As it turns out, I'm learning one of the first steps to SELF LOVE is SELF CARE! Unlike other nonprofits, Women Speaking Out is innovative and unique in the events we host and the programs we offer for young women.  We are about empowerment and partnering with amazing individuals to showcase how to take care of yourself through beauty, goal setting, fashion, fitness, and nutrition. But more importantly, helping you to see your potential. YOU ARE WORTHY!

The most powerful thing we can do as women is share our stories and personal experiences, to help create a common narrative and know that we are not alone. So learn to take care of yourself first and be the woman you've always aspired to be. You don't know who's watching, and who you might inspire.