January 30, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – About 30 high-school-aged girls from across Hampden County gathered inside the Hampden District Attorney’s Office on Jan. 13, not because they had to, but because they chose to. As members of HERizon — a voluntary leadership and empowerment program that meets every other week — the students came together to find community, reflect on their experiences, and support one another in a space designed just for them.

Through drawings, phrases, and hand-written letters, the young women of HERizon were able to find their voice and share their story during the first meeting of the new year.

The focus of the Jan. 13 meeting was self-discovery.

First, the group was asked to do an individual reflection – writing down responses to various prompts, including, “I feel most like myself when…,” “a part of me I don’t show often is…,” “when do you speak up? When do you stay silent,” and “something you wish people understood about you is…,” among other questions.

After taking some time to jot down notes, everyone was split into small groups to share their responses. However, before doing so, HERizon Student Ambassador Rista Pradhan, a junior at Putnam High School, encouraged everyone to be open, honest, and respectful of others, as the program is designed to be a safe space.

For about 30 minutes, everyone took turns sharing their stories and writing down unique, repeated, and meaningful responses on a poster. From there, they were asked to turn that poster into a “creative voice project.”

Through laughter and tears, each group shared their final product with everyone.

The projects included an illustrated “garden of growth” and a letter to the HERizon members, among others.

A portion of that letter read, “We know it’s easy to feel lost and afraid, but never be afraid to show your true self. Being yourself is the most important thing you can be, and it is how you will make true bonds, and strong connections. The opinions of others do not matter when you can be your perfect self. Free your voice through building your own self.”

Following the meeting, Pradhan said, “Being able to share my story and connect with the young ladies of HERizon makes me feel proud and happy. I never grew up with a silver spoon, so being able to share my life journey and inspire other young women helps me remember my purpose.”

She went on to say, “The girls in HERizon have a fire for change – they all want to make a difference. Each student has her own story for why she chose to be in a room full of other women, whether it’s to be heard, to heal, to grow, or to find a community that understands her. Together, those stories create a space filled with strength, support, and shared purpose. We truly are the HER in HERizon – the shining light.”