The Fearless Spirit Project
By Casey Scalf, M. Photog. CPP, FP
About 7 years ago, I started hearing from EVERY mother of a middle school girl, how their self-confidence plummeted when they reached middle school. Their once out-going child, was now shy, sad, guarded and kept to themselves most of the time. This is typically the time when bullying starts to happen. And then, add Covid anxiety on top of that. They have a lot stacked against them. Parents can only do so much.
Parents can tell them, until they’re blue in the face, how beautiful and special they are, but teens need something more. By the time that I meet them, the moms are at their wits end. They’ve tried everything to help their daughter but they hit a brick wall. So, there are usually a lot of tears when they finally hear about the Fearless Spirit program.
Having self-confidence at this time in their life is vital for building a strong-willed person, that will believe in themselves and succeed at their life goals. I began Fearless Spirit Model Crew for girls 11-16 years old, who are really struggling with their self-confidence and anxiety. This is a totally different approach to help teens. Applicants are selected to "Model" for Storybook Studios. This is NOT based on looks. They get to participate in 7 monthly fun and artistic group sessions.
By seeing beautiful images of themselves, over and over, for 7 months, I PROVE to them how beautiful they are. Each model gets their own personal photoshoot…A full day to celebrate them! They will gain self-confidence that will help them see their worth and know that they are meant to be here. They get new friendships and social events that help with their anxiety. They also get to participate in 7 monthly model crew group sessions. These monthly photoshoots help them bond with the other girls and is also a creative outlet because they get to be involved in the artistic process. Parents receive a discount off of anything purchased from these sessions.
At the end of the 7 months, we have the Fearless Spirit Fashion Show. This event marks the graduation of the Fearless Spirit Model Crew.
This is the culmination of a 7 month process of building the self-esteem of these 5-10 middle school teen girls. The process proves to them, through professional, creative and fun photography, how beautiful and unique they truly are. With this event, they are challenged to be truly fearless and walk the runway!
Ticket and raffle prize sales are donated to support the charity 'To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA)', a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness for people who are struggling with mental health issues like depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide.
I have seen this program change so many lives. From taking anxiety drugs to fighting with their teachers and parents….to getting off of anxiety meds and making honor role. I really believe that I was put on earth to do this.