Exposure Changes Everything: Leading Ladies Take Myrtle Beach

One of the things we love most about our Leading Ladies program is watching young women discover new possibilities for themselves. Every year, the girls earn an end-of-year trip through their commitment, participation, and growth throughout the program. This year’s adventure took us to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where we spent several days together making memories, strengthening friendships, and exploring new experiences.

While there were plenty of laughs, beach walks, and late-night conversations, one experience stood out above the rest: Medieval Times.

The girls were completely captivated by the knights, horsemanship, and sword fighting. What could have simply been a fun evening quickly became something more. Before the trip was even over, the girls were asking questions about fencing and wondering how they could learn to do it themselves.

So, we did what we always try to do at BAM. We listened.

As soon as we returned home, we began reaching out to local fencing organizations in the Charleston area to explore opportunities for the girls to learn the sport firsthand. We are currently working on a potential partnership and cannot wait to see where their curiosity leads.

Moments like this remind us why exposure matters.

When young people are exposed to new experiences, careers, hobbies, cultures, and opportunities, they begin to see possibilities they never knew existed. They start to believe that maybe they belong in those spaces too. Sometimes a single experience unlocks an interest, a talent, or a dream that had been waiting beneath the surface.

Over the years, we have noticed something remarkable. Whenever our girls are introduced to something new, at least one girl seems to shine. The interesting part is that it is never the same girl every time.

The student who struggles in one activity may thrive in another. The girl who is quiet in one setting may become a leader in the next. Exposure teaches our girls that they do not have to be great at everything. It is okay to fail, try again, pivot, or discover that something simply is not for them. It also teaches them how to celebrate the success of others while continuing to search for their own strengths and passions.

That is where confidence is built.

This trip would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community. Before we left, several generous members of the Hamlin neighborhood in Mount Pleasant donated funds that allowed our girls to experience both Medieval Times and WonderWorks. Their generosity helped create memories that will last long after the trip ended.

The girls were also surprised with special travel goodie bags thanks to a generous donor and the wonderful team at Modern Manor in Mount Pleasant. Small acts of kindness like these remind our girls that there is a community of people cheering them on and investing in their future.

As we look ahead to a possible fencing lesson and whatever adventure comes next, we are reminded that mentorship is often about opening doors. When young people can see what is possible, they begin to believe what is possible. And when they believe it, they often discover potential they never knew they had.

We cannot wait to share what happens next.