Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Rogers.
Hi Cynthia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up in a sheltered and at-risk community, I didn’t have access to mentoring programs or social groups. My world changed in high school when I joined a Co-op program and began my first civil service job. My manager became the first woman to pour a business mindset into me. She taught me professionalism, encouraged me to pursue higher education, and opened my eyes to what guidance and support could truly do.
As I grew older and built a professional career, I watched my nieces struggle with the same challenges of adolescence, miscommunication at home, peer pressure, and trying to find their identity. I started hosting monthly get-togethers for them, simply wanting to give them what I never had. But I soon realized it wasn’t just my nieces facing these challenges; their friends were hurting, too. Their stories, their questions, and their need for a safe space became the catalyst for something greater.
In 2010, I founded Divas DFW, Inc. What started as small gatherings in my home has now grown into a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a team of dedicated volunteers serving at-risk teen girls across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has not been smooth, there have been many bumps and curves along the way. One of my biggest challenges was deciding whether to keep the organization independently funded or to officially register as a nonprofit. Navigating that process was difficult, especially since many of the people I encountered were unwilling to offer guidance. Still, we persisted, continued seeking support, and eventually those “no’s” turned into “YESSS!”
Another major struggle came during the Covid-19 pandemic. Our work had always centered on in-person workshops, so being forced to pivot to a virtual format was challenging. It limited our ability to connect with the community and collaborate with other organizations in the way we were accustomed to. Despite these obstacles, we adapted, stayed committed to our mission, and when things returned to normal, we bounced back stronger than before.
We’ve been impressed with Divas DFW Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Divas DFW is a nonprofit teen mentoring organization dedicated to empowering young girls ages 12–18 throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Our mission is to bridge the gap between parents and communities by providing a safe, supportive space where girls can grow in confidence, leadership, and self-worth. Through hands-on workshops, community service, and mentorship, Divas equips young women with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges, embrace their individuality, and step boldly into their purpose.
Our program focuses on self-love, healthy relationships, personal development, and leadership skills, while also incorporating interactive experiences like culinary sessions, career exploration, and wellness education. At Divas DFW, we believe every girl has the potential to be a light in her community and a leader in her generation.
What truly sets our organization apart is our commitment to hands-on, transformative learning. We offer interactive cooking workshops centered on a plant-based lifestyle, empowering the next generation with practical tools to help combat diseases that disproportionately impact underserved communities of color, including high blood pressure, diabetes, hypertension, and more. These workshops go beyond instruction. Our mentees actively prepare meals using our own custom spice blends, creating an engaging, culturally relevant experience that connects health, education, and empowerment.
What I am most proud of is never giving up on my dream and remaining steadfast in our mission, even during challenging seasons. Because of that perseverance, we have continued to grow and expand our reach, allowing us to serve more teen girls each year. This coming January, we will proudly celebrate our “Sweet 16,” marking sixteen years of dedicated service to the community and a legacy of impact that continues to grow.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Our organization thrives because of the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters. There are many meaningful ways to work with us, collaborate with us, or support our mission. We welcome partnerships with corporations, small businesses, and community organizations that are aligned with empowering and uplifting teen girls through education, wellness, and mentorship.
We are also seeking committed volunteers who are interested in mentoring opportunities at our on-site location at the Barack and Michelle Obama Ninth Grade Campus, Lancaster, TX. Individuals who are passionate about making a direct impact in the lives of teen girls are encouraged to get involved.
In addition, supporters can sponsor a mentee by purchasing one of our sponsorship packages directly through our website. By sponsoring a Diva, you help provide vital financial assistance to a mentee in need, ensuring access to our programs, workshops, and resources.
Those interested in collaborating, volunteering, sponsoring a mentee, or providing in-kind support can connect with us by emailing hello@divasdfwinc.org or visiting divasdfwinc.org to complete the volunteer or contact form. Every partnership helps us expand our reach and deepen our impact within the communities we serve.
Pricing:
- $30.00 – Monthly Sponsor, A branded t-shirt Website sponsor listing Access to sponsor-only events
- $2,500 – Bronze Sponsor, Logo on event material Website sponsor listing 1 sponsored workshop
- $5,000 – Silver Sponsor, All Bronze benefits Co-branded youth event Speaking opportunity
- $10,000 – Gold Sponsor, All Silver benefits Annual sponsorship recognition Direct mentorship partnership
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.divasdfwinc.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divasdfwinc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divasdfwinc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divas-dfw-inc/
Image Credits
Angela Webb and Rae Arelle
