FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Peter Poon Kwong, poonkwong@bgcsctn.org
Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee Hosts annual SMART Girls Conference at Columbia State
SMART Girls Conference attendees pause for a quick photo with friends
COLUMBIA, Tenn. — March 28, 2026 — Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee welcomed over 115 attendees from across the region to Columbia State Community College on Saturday for its annual SMART Girls Conference, a day centered on confidence, connection, and future readiness.
This year’s conference, themed Workforce Readiness: Building Her Future, brought together Club members and community participants ages 10 and older for a full day of hands-on learning, encouragement, and practical skill-building. Offered free of charge and open to both Club and non-Club youth, the conference was designed to help girls see new possibilities for their future while strengthening self-worth, leadership, and confidence.
Attendees work with professionals to prepare their resumes for mock interviews
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a variety of sessions focused on career exploration, personal development, and life skills. Topics included resume building, mock interviews, dressing for the job, financial literacy, self-defense, STEM, visioning, and Canva branding. Sessions were led by local professionals, leaders, and community partners who invested their time and expertise into the experience.
A group of attendees listens attentively during a program session
One session focused on professional presence and workplace readiness, while others gave girls the opportunity to think about personal safety, financial confidence, creativity, and long-term goals. Sessions reflected the heart of SMART Girls: helping young women better understand who they are, what they value, and what they can become.
Attendees pause for a quick photo during a STEM activity
“Watching these girls walk in unsure and leave standing taller, speaking louder, and believing in themselves, that’s why SMART Girls matters.” Director of Impact and Outcome Carrika Washington.
The SMART Girls Conference has continued to grow year after year, becoming a meaningful and anticipated opportunity for girls across South Central Tennessee. By combining practical workforce development topics with encouragement and mentorship, the event helps participants leave not only with new knowledge, but with a stronger sense of confidence in themselves.
SMART Girls participants practice self-defense during a hands-on session
“SMART Girls was something that I wish I had as a youth” said Macie Brooks, an Event facilitator and Current BGCSCTN staff member. “You could see the girls glowing when they were showing off their confidence and learning how to be prideful in themselves. That is something I struggled with as a youth and I love to be able to help and see it being put into youth now.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee extends gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who helped make the day possible.
“I love Smart Girls because no contribution is ever too small or overlooked. From the parents who trusted us with their daughters, to the volunteers who gave their time to meet a need; from the staff who pour into these girls day after day, to the speakers who shared their gifts to inspire the next generation; from the event space that went above and beyond to ensure everything ran seamlessly, to the community members who donated supplies, funds, and shared our event on social media—we are truly grateful,” said Desiree’ McClean, Onboarding and Volunteer Manager at BGCSCTN.
Volunteers, professionals, and facilitators pause for a quick photo together
“SMART Girls means a lot to me because the life skills these girls gain are so important, and not every girl has a reliable person in her life to teach them.” Said Alyssa Lunsford, Pulaski Site Coordinator, “It validateseach girl who participates and reminds her that she does not have to chase belonging — she can create it right where she is.”
Programs like SMART Girls are part of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee’s broader commitment to helping young people build the confidence, skills, and support systems they need to thrive. Through experiences like this, girls are encouraged to dream bigger, lead boldly, and step into the future with confidence.
About SMART Girls
SMART Girls is a national Boys & Girls Clubs program designed to help girls develop healthy attitudes and lifestyles. Through small-group sessions, field trips, mentorship, and hands-on activities, girls explore topics such as self-esteem, health, relationships, fitness, and leadership. The program serves girls in three age groups, from 8 to 18, and aims to inspire them to make positive choices and become confident young women.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee
The vision of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee is to provide a world-class Club Experience that ensures success is within reach for every young person who enters our doors. Founded in 1999, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee serves more than 1,800 youth annually across three Clubhouse sites and eleven school-based locations. In partnership with Maury County Public Schools since 2016, the Club has expanded its reach to provide vital services to children and families throughout the region.
For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee and its programs, please visit BGCSCTN.
