Mission Statement

The mission of Kujichagulia is to instill self-determination through Christian fellowship, educational, cultural, and social activities.

Historical Information

Kujichagulia, A Christian Girls’ Organization, Inc., was founded in the spring of 1993 and serves girls in the 11th – 12th grades.

Kujichagulia is a Swahili word, which means self-determination… “The sense of rootedness to an idea or goal, that comes to an individual or a group who has decided to accept nothing less than the accomplishment of that idea or goal, as a practical purpose in life.” Kuji….has served over 3500 girls.

Programs Offered

Annual Teen Conference for Girls
Annual Mother/Daughter Luncheon
Senior Awards and Luncheon Program
Annual Grande Monde Soiree – Debutante Ball for Girls
Project R.E.A.C.H. – College Prep Workshops
Parenting Workshops
Essay Writing Workshops
Prayer Workshops
Financial Literacy Workshops
Bible Study
Community Service Projects
Abstinence Program
Self-Esteem Workshops
Etiquette Classes
Credit Management Workshops
Counseling Classes
Hygiene Workshops
Field trips to the ballet, art exhibits, museums, and other cultural activities
Men of Honor
Mentoring Program for boys in the 6th – 12th grades

Cost

Annual registration fee: $ 25.00       One-time t-shirt fee: $20.00

Requirements to Participate

Girls/Boys – Each girl/boy must complete a registration form.
Adults – Each adult must complete a registration form and criminal background application.  Adults must attend the monthly volunteer’s meeting.  There is also an Annual Retreat/Training held in July that each volunteer is encouraged to attend.

Awards

  • In March 2000, the Children’s Defense Fund recognized Kujichagulia as one of ten successful youth faith-based organizations.  The Children’s Defense Fund highlighted Kujichagulia in their national publication “Grace to Lead Our Children Home.”
  • Toni Williams, Executive Director, had the privilege to travel with the Children’s Defense Fund’s Black Community Crusade for Children.  She presented Kujichagulia as a national pilot program for children.
  • Ms. Williams was recognized as a YMCA Young Minority Achiever in 2001 for her works with Kujichagulia.
  • On June 12, 2003, Kujichagulia was highlighted in the Houston Chronicle – This Week edition.
  • On June 19, 2003, Kujichagulia was also highlighted on Channel 2’s Zip Report.
  • On November 3, 2003, at the Grande Monde Soiree – Debutante Ball, Kujichagulia awarded $5,250.00 in scholarships to high school senior girls.  Over $75,000 in scholarships and prizes have been awarded to senior girls.
    Additional scholarships will be awarded at the Senior Awards and Luncheon Program.
  • On May 3, 2004, at the Mother & Daughter Scholarship Luncheon, Kujichagulia awarded an additional $1,500.00 in scholarships and $1000.00 in prizes to high school senior girls.
  • On July 29, 2004, the 100 Black Men of America – Metropolitan Houston Chapter awarded (2) $1000.00 scholarships to Kujichagulia senior girls.

Staff

Full Time:    Executive Director
Part Time:    Administrative Assistant
Contract:      Counselor
Volunteers:   60+ (must complete a criminal background application)