True sisterhood is a bond that uplifts, empowers, and unites. On Tuesday May 6, My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) hosted its annual gathering at St. John’s University. This event brought together chapters from across South Queens, including Queens Preparatory Academy (QPA) . This occasion marked a celebration of MSK’s year-long achievements and highlighted the growth and empowerment of young women involved in the program. The gathering provided a meaningful space for reflection, unity, and celebration of sisterhood.
One of the most memorable parts of the event was the tiara ceremony. Each student was given a tiara and asked to place it on another girl’s head, symbolizing the importance of uplifting one another. This powerful gesture was inspired by the well-known message: “Fix your sister’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.” It served as a reminder that true leadership includes kindness, support, and quiet strength.
The gathering was elevated by the presence of several special guests who have made amazing contributions to education, activism, and culture. These included activist and author Tamika D. Mallory, renowned educator and poet Dr. Linda Michelle Baron, and Superintendent of Queens South High Schools, Dr. Josephine Van-Ess. Each brought words of encouragement and inspiration to the students. Tamika D. Mallory encouraged the girls to believe in themselves, use their voices to create change, and never be afraid to lead. She generously brought copies of her book, I Lived to Tell the Story, as a gift to the students, offering them a powerful example of strength and resilience. Dr. Linda Michelle Baron shared original poems and uplifting words that inspired students to embrace their identity, creativity, and potential.
Superintendent Dr. Van-Ess offered heartfelt remarks, stating, “When we think of MSK, we think of sisterhood. But being someone’s keeper means being someone’s protector; it means to uplift. It means to surround that person with love, care, and nurture.” Her words captured the very essence of the program’s mission and left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.
During the event, QPA’s MSK leader Ms. Stacy Henry was honored with a City Council citation for her dedication and impactful work with the organization. In her remarks, she reflected on the incredible journey of the students this year. “It is dear to my heart that young ladies understand and appreciate all the gifts they have.” she said. “The sky’s the limit when it comes to what they can achieve.”
Our very own junior, Ernstsaelle Montcera Vieux, was honored with a City Council citation for her outstanding contribution as an MSK participant. “It was a moment of joy and pride. I felt seen and it was amazing,” she said, capturing the deep impact and recognition her experience brought her.
Senior Dieunane Joseph said, “Being a part of MSK means to be supported and to give support, and know that you have a fellow sister like you to lift you up when you’re down and that you’ll do the same,” reflecting the true spirit of support and sisterhood at the heart of the program.
The MSK annual gathering was more than a celebration; it was a call to action. It reminded us to uplift one another and build a community where every young woman feels empowered and supported. Through sisterhood, inspiration, and shared experiences, MSK is helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.
The good news is that My Sister’s Keeper will continue next year at QPA, offering more students the opportunity to grow through this impactful organization. As Ms. Henry shared, she has witnessed tremendous growth in the students involved. Ernstsaelle Montcera Vieux encourages others to join, saying, “Don’t be afraid, just come in and be yourself. Our circle is all about positivity and no judgment.” As they see it, MSK is more than a club; it’s a movement of empowerment, unity, and purpose, and its legacy continues to grow.
