The world we are living in is constantly changing. Social media plays a large part in developing young boys and girls like never before. However, since 1999, a bright light continues to shine in the development of young girls, to what is now known as Daughters of Destiny.
This ministry started in 1999 by visionary Elder Sheila Bowens Kelsey, at the New Samaritan Baptist Church in Washington, DC. The focus of the ministry is to teach young girls to become young ladies of grace and virtue through self-discipline, wise decisions, academic excellence and Christian discipleship, while having fun doing it.
Coordinator Tanya Hurt has been part of the Daughters of Destiny Leadership Team since its’ conception. Hurt said, she truly loves serving the girls and watching them grow up to become young ladies who love the Lord. Although the pandemic has slowed the Daughters of Destiny from meeting physically together, Hurt said they continue to meet in virtual settings. Hurt said she would not know what to do if the ministry did not continue to exist. Hurt said the Daughters of Destiny plays a hug part in her life.
The group’s mission statement align itself with Titus 2, verses 3-5; “The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things. That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children. To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” This foundational passage helps the ministry team and the young girl associated with the program stay focus.
The girls are paired off into various age groups: Ages 10-12 are known as Gems, and girls who fall within the ages of 13-17, are known as Jewels. Most people recognize these names as precious stones that formed deep within the earth. Once the stones are located, polished, and prepared for the world to see, they bring forth beauty and a uniqueness that is valuable. Hurt said she sees the Daughters of Destiny in this same light. Gems and Jewels that are precious stones, naturally formed deep within the earth and once cut and polished, they sparkle and shine showing their full beauty.
The Daughters of Destiny have an academy vision that they seek to fulfill. Once a month they meet to discuss decisions and behavior that align with the mind of Jesus the Christ. The goal is to connect with the world around them by sharing the love of God. At the end of the ministry program, the girls who now have grown up to become Daughter of Destiny will impact the world by adding exponential value to their families, their church, and the community.
The Daughters of Destiny are positioned to come away from the program with a greater sense of having an increase academic success, establish positive friendships, develop healthy self-esteem, expand their faith in God, learn new interpersonal and entrepreneurial skills, and simply become happier individuals. The Daughters of Destiny come away with the Core Values of: Courage, Compassion, Confidence, Character and Competence.
Contributor: Tanya Hurt
