For the Girls: Empowering Women, One Voice at a Time - News Partnership
Sabirah Rayford, a trusted journalist from FOX 13 News Seattle, has long been dedicated to empowering women through the power of storytelling. Her personal journey of growth and resilience inspired the creation of “For the Girls,” a program aimed at amplifying women’s voices and highlighting their unique stories. While “For the Girls” stands independently as its own initiative, her involvement with TEDxWomen as a co-emcee—alongside KOMO News journalist Holly—demonstrated her deep commitment to community-building and advocacy for women’s leadership.
The Importance of Voices
Every day, we are shaped by the narratives that surround us—those of our families, our communities, and the world at large. Yet, far too often, women’s stories go untold, or are told through a lens that doesn’t fully capture their complexity and strength. This is what makes events like TEDx Belltown Women so vital. It also highlights the importance of local voices with shows like “For the Girls”. This program encourages women to own their experiences, turning challenges into lessons and lessons into leadership. It showcased multiple TEDxBelltown Women speakers, attendees, the organizer, and local stories.
Drawing on last year's inspiration, TEDxBelltown Women's 2025 event theme is 'Our Heroes Journey' recognizing the universal narrative of our individual challenges and growth. But this isn’t a one-size-fits-all narrative. Each woman’s journey is shaped by her individual culture, circumstances, and dreams. By embracing these differences we come together.
Top TEDx Talk References on Women’s Leadership and the Hero’s Journey
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: "We Should All Be Feminists" (TEDxEuston) A poignant and accessible look at gender equality, Adichie’s talk is a reminder that women’s voices have the power to shape the future—and that storytelling is one of the most potent tools for driving change.
Reshma Saujani: "Teach Girls Bravery, Not Perfection" (TEDxTeen) This inspiring talk challenges traditional notions of success and encourages young women to take risks and embrace failure as a natural part of growth.
Sheryl Sandberg: "Why We Have Too Few Women Leaders" (TEDWomen) Sandberg’s iconic talk lays out practical advice for women navigating leadership challenges while also calling on society to address systemic barriers.
Brené Brown: "The Power of Vulnerability" (TEDxHouston) Though not specifically focused on women’s leadership, Brown’s exploration of vulnerability resonates deeply with anyone navigating a leadership journey. Her insights into courage and connection offer valuable lessons for “For the Girls” participants.
Leymah Gbowee: "Unlock the Intelligence, Passion, Greatness of Girls" (TEDxMonrovia) Nobel Peace Laureate Gbowee highlights the importance of empowering young women as agents of change, an ideal that echoes through the “For the Girls” program and the TEDx Belltown Women initiatives as a licensed TEDx organizer.
A Path Forward
Amplifying female voices is a reminder that communities grow stronger with equality. The TEDxBelltown Women events are focused on creating a powerful space for exploration, dialogue, and inspiration. By celebrating the unique stories each woman brings to the table, we can continue to support ideas worth spreading through TEDx licensed talks with a collective path forward—one where leadership is defined by authenticity, inclusivity, and courage. And that is 'Our Hereos Journey'.