Her Story
About Sonya
Sonya Cooke is a nonprofit leader, mentor, speaker, and advocate dedicated to empowering girls and strengthening families in the Indianapolis community. As the founder and executive director of Girl Talk Incorporated, she has spent more than a decade creating safe, non-judgmental spaces where girls can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and overcome personal challenges. Inspired by her own experiences as a teenage mother in need of support and encouragement, Cooke established Girl Talk to ensure that young women have access to mentorship, guidance, and opportunities that help them realize their full potential.
Under her leadership, Girl Talk has grown into a comprehensive nonprofit serving girls ages 10 to 18 and single mothers through a variety of empowerment initiatives. The organization’s signature eight-week empowerment program, launched in 2016, addresses topics such as self-esteem, conflict resolution, financial literacy, body positivity, and personal development. Additional programs include Empower Her Academy, career mentorship, business internships, after-school tutoring, one-on-one mentoring, the Mother Supporting Mothers Quarterly Workshop, and the Thrive Project, which provides mothers with mental health support, financial literacy education, career preparation, homeownership resources, and other wraparound services designed to promote long-term stability and success.
Cooke’s journey reflects resilience, determination, and lifelong learning. After leaving high school as a teen mother caring for a child with cerebral palsy, she later earned her GED, completed a bachelor’s degree in marketing, and pursued professional certifications in mental health, business marketing, coaching, public speaking, and etiquette instruction. A member of the National Association for Women Business Owners and an active community mentor and speaker, she has been recognized for her contributions to public service and youth development. Among her proudest achievements is celebrating Girl Talk’s 10 Years of Impact, marked by testimonials from girls and mothers whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s commitment to empowerment, support, and community engagement.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sonya
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in their abilities, stay focused on their goals, and never be afraid to take initiative. For those interested in starting their own business, I recommend creating a solid business plan, conducting thorough research, and clearly defining their niche to establish a strong foundation for success. Most importantly, choose a path you are passionate about, as genuine enthusiasm and commitment will help you navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a rewarding and sustainable career.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are family, community, mentorship, and personal growth. I am passionate about giving back through my involvement in professional organizations such as NAWBO and various community nonprofits, where I have the opportunity to mentor and inspire others. I also value continuous learning and development, which is reflected in earning my etiquette instructor certification and my plans to integrate etiquette training into Girl Talk. These values guide my commitment to helping others grow, fostering meaningful connections, and making a positive impact in the communities I serve.
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