From College Project to the White House: How SOCIALgrlz is Helping Level the Playing Field

What started as a college project, eventually turned into a trip to the White House. Marissa Jennings, CEO and Founder of SOCIALgrlz, started the company to give African American teen girls an opportunity to have their voices heard in a safe space. Through various partnerships, including one with Microsoft, Marissa aims to teach girls the importance of personal social media brands. SOCIALgrlz is helping girls with self-esteem, fashion tips, financial principals through advice, articles, and social interactions. I had the opportunity to hear from Marissa about the origin of the company, diversity, and The White House.

How did you come up with the idea of SOCIALgrlz?

“While attending Bennett College for Women I struggled with what I wanted to focus on regarding my senior college project.  I realized that I wanted to create a magazine similar to Essence Magazine but for young girls ages 13- 17.  I noticed that the newspapers were being cut, the internet was becoming a resource center and mobile apps were slowly becoming an engagement intersection for content. I wanted to create a safe space for African American girls who looked like me and have similar backgrounds as myself. Bennett College was my Accelerator!”

Can you elaborate on why diversity is a huge problem and what you are doing above and beyond traditional and governmental support in order to really evoke change?

“Diversity is a huge problem because it does not provide a level playing field. In many instances, minorities do not have access to the same educational resources as others In this country. Thus, if everyone does not have the same chance to succeed, then it negates the true value & meaning of success. Our SOCIALgrlz  mobile app will help African-American teen girls level the field by providing resources in various areas, including education & leadership, that ensure they can succeed in various careers.”

Why do you think you were chosen as one of the Champions of Change by The White House?

“I believe I was chosen because the work I am doing is unique. There are more the 300,000 mobile apps and not one is designed for African American girls ages 13- 17. I am taking a demographic and putting a spotlight on them through a platform we all use hourly, technology. I believe the White House and many believe that this demographic deserves to be highlighted, celebrated and provided the opportunity to excel in STEM.”

Marissa is doing a lot to promote change, help minorities and give them a level playing field. SOCIALgrlz is giving African American teen girls a chance to succeed and helping them gain resources in education and leadership.

You can meet Marissa and the SOCIALgrlz team tomorrow, at DC TechDay.