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Veatrice Ware-Thomas of Brundidge is the visionary of I AM: I Am Original. I Am ME, a non-profit organization that empowers and educates girls ages nine to 16 years old. The organization has serviced young girls across Alabama.

Thomas, the daughter of Elaine Ware of Brundidge, has 24 years in public education and is currently an elementary school principal. She is a Silver Star member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Society and other professional organizations.

Thomas has a heart for helping and motivating young girls and that is the basis for I AM: I Am Original. I Am ME. The organization’s aim is to teach young girls to live in their truth to be all that they are destined to be, Thomas said.

“My commitment to lifelong personal and professional development has shaped the vision and mission of I AM: I Am Original. I Am ME,” Thomas said. “I live at the forefront of social change and advocacy for young people of all ages.”

On July 24, Aaliyah Oliver received a check to assist with back to school expenses.

She won the virtual event, ProjectBrundidgePrettyGirlsRock’s High Noon Tea with a Twist. 

Thomas said young who ladies in the event were asked to decorate a theme-specific table that would seat four utilizing the information they learned during an I AM Eloquence & Etiquette development session. The participants created a three- to five-minute video describing an approach to creating place settings for a four-course meal. The submissions were made via social media and the winner was chosen by judges.

Even through this is an era of social distancing, I AM: I Am Original. I Am ME still pushes to educate and inspire young girls in the area.

This event was phenomenal and the submissions were excellent, Thomas said.

Oliver expressed appreciation for the award and for the opportunity to participant in the leadership sessions held throughout the year.

“I have gain a lot of knowledge about serving others,” Oliver said.

Those who are interested in participating in I AM: I Am Original. I Am ME may contact Veatrice Thomas via Facebook @veatrice.thomas 1 or email her at prettyfrog5@yahoo.com.