NY1's latest Queens People of the Week are doing all they can to help ease the "growing pains" young women often go through. Leisha Majtan introduces us.

Diamond Craig's first job out of college left her feeling unfulfilled. It　was during that time she found her true purpose.

"To be honest I was kind of bored so I said let me start a blog, let me do something productive with my time. And just explain some　 of my experiences as a young 20-something-year-old woman growing up in this community," said Diamond Craig, the founder of "Purposefully Pretty" and NY1's Queens Person of the Week.

Fast forward four years -- that blog evolved into the non-profit organization "Purposefully Pretty."

The group works with young women of color -- mentoring them and helping them reach their full potential.

"We want to break down the stereotypes that are placed on young women," added Craig. "There are so many outside influences that kind of infiltrate our young people from social media, from reality T.V., from everywhere! And we just want to be that positive influence in their life."

On top of mentoring, the group takes part in charity events across the borough.

They hold toy giveaways during the holidays, give free prom makeovers, and host workshops at local high schools.

"It's very special seeing our young girls come in who are sometimes very shy and then coming out and having these big voices and feeling like they believe in themselves," said Tiyanna McFarlane, a board member with "Purposefully Pretty" and NY1's Queens Person of the Week.

That's exactly how "Purposefully Pretty" makes 17-year-old Kiarra McFarlane feel.

"With Purposefully Pretty you get to call the girls and say "hey, I'm having trouble with this" or "hey, I'm having a bad day" or "I'm having a great day." They're just there for a shoulder," said Kiarra McFarlane, a member of "Purposefully Pretty."

Something Craig says all young girls should have while growing up.

"I want to help young people everywhere identify what their purpose is and see their dreams come true," said Craig.

And so for showing all young girls no dream is every too far to reach, the members of "Purposefully Pretty" are our Queens People of　 the Week.

 

For more information on how to get involved with the organization, visit www.purposefullyprettyinc.org