After 25 years with the Florida Department of Corrections, Shikita Hill saw firsthand what happens when people lack guidance, structure and support. She didn’t see cases, she saw people in need of tools, mentorship and opportunity. That experience didn’t end with her career; it became the foundation for EmpowerU 1st.

Founded to bridge the gap between surviving and thriving, EmpowerU 1st offers programs focused on anger management, parenting, impulse control, life skills and CPR/First Aid training. The classes also meet court-mandated requirements. 

The goal is simple: provide practical tools that promote accountability, growth and self-sufficiency. “We don’t just teach, we mentor, guide and walk alongside those we serve,” Shikita says. 

That same mission led to the creation of the Glow Girl LeadHERship Circle, a mentorship program designed to support young girls navigating challenges like self-esteem, peer pressure and identity. Through leadership development and structured mentorship, the program creates a space where girls can build confidence, develop life skills and grow into strong leaders.

For Shikita, the work is about creating a lasting impact. “I believe that when individuals are empowered, families grow stronger and communities thrive,” she says. Through EmpowerU 1st and Glow Girl, Shikita continues to invest in the next generation with passion and selflessness.