Influential Woman · Non Profit Mentorship for girls
Stephanie Brown
Director of Operations, --
Goodyear, AZ
Her Story
About Stephanie
Stephanie Brown is the Director of Operations in her day job and the founder of a nonprofit mentorship program for girls ages 11 to 18. After more than 20 years coaching cheer at high school, junior high, and gym levels, she launched the program following the COVID-19 pandemic when she observed widespread anxiety, depression, and emotional challenges among middle and high school girls. Brown earned her 501c3 status in 2025 after operating the mentorship for three years without it. She holds certifications as a Mental Health First Aid Youth Instructor and has graduated from both the John Maxwell Leadership Program and the John Maxwell Youth Leadership Program. Lacking a college education, Brown built the curriculum with input from teachers, doctors, and behavioral health specialists. Her 16-week sessions incorporate guest speakers, self-care workshops, sound healing, yoga, healthy cooking, and journaling. She attributes her accomplishments entirely to God and the many individuals who have supported the girls through the program.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stephanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God. Nothing of me. I'm not anything special. It's the people that have poured into the girls and God's blessings helping me do what I'm supposed to be doing.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was a question from a smart lady: 'Are you doing your purpose?' That made me think about using my God-given gifts in whatever I do, whether mentorship, coaching, or my day job, because that fills my cup.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Get ready, put your big pants on and your running shoes because it's a lot of work. Make sure when you build your village or board, they are like-minded people who will advocate for the nonprofit, because that's what makes it sustainable.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There are so many opportunities meeting great people who want to pour into youth daily. The challenge is asking for help and being a salesperson for the nonprofit, like requesting monthly support or sponsorships, which makes me uncomfortable.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Following God is my first value - I never do or teach anything unless I know it's something He would approve. Being kind is another - our motto is become your own cheerleader first so you can cheer on the next girl. We don't know what others are going through.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.