Meet Aslynn Earl | Founder and Youth Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aslynn Earl and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aslynn, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Founding Princess and a Pad was born from a deep-seated passion to address period poverty. Witnessing the challenges faced by all females especially those from ages 9-22, I felt a profound sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully and make a positive impact. My thought process involved a critical evaluation of existing solutions, recognizing gaps, and envisioning a more holistic approach to tackling the root cause of the problem.

I reflected on the youth that I had encountered, the lack of access to period products, menstrual hygiene and puberty education, and wanted to be a part of the solution. Armed with this insight, I crafted a mission for Princess and a Pad that goes beyond immediate relief, aiming for a meaningful, long-term impact. My personal commitment to help the youth of the world today and desire to help in making this world a better place fueled my decision.

Starting Princess and a Pad was a deliberate choice to make a difference. I envisioned a responsive organization, fostering collaboration, community engagement, and innovative solutions. This journey is driven by the belief that, through empowerment and collective actions, we can create positive, lasing change in the lives of young females.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Certainly! I am the proud founder of Princess and a Pad, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and supporting young women in our community. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every young woman deserves access to essential resources and the opportunity to thrive, regardless of socio-economic circumstances.

Menstrual Product Initiative:

One of the cornerstones of our organization is our menstrual product initiative. Recognizing the significant challenges many young women face in obtaining menstrual hygiene products, we provide free and accessible supplies to those in need. Our goal is to ensure that no girl misses out on educational or social opportunities due to a lack of access to these fundamental products.

Through partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and generous donors, we’ve been able to establish distribution points across the community, including schools and community centers. By addressing this often-overlooked need, we aim to empower young women to focus on their education and personal development without the burden of menstrual product insecurity.

School Supplies Drive:

Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, and we understand the financial strain that school supplies can place on families. To alleviate this burden, we organize annual school supplies drives, providing backpacks, notebooks, pens, and other essential items to ensure that every young woman has the tools she needs for academic success. This initiative not only supports individuals but also contributes to building a more equitable educational environment.

Prom Dress Giveaways:
We recognize the significance of milestones like prom in a young woman’s life and understand that the associated expenses can be prohibitive for some families. That’s why we organize prom dress giveaways, where we collect gently used dresses and accessories, and provide them to young women who may otherwise face financial barriers in attending these important events. Our aim is to foster a sense of inclusivity and celebration for all.

Community Engagement and Empowerment:

Beyond our specific initiatives, we are deeply committed to fostering a sense of community and empowerment among the young women we serve. We organize workshops, mentorship programs, and community events that focus on personal development, self-esteem building, and skill enhancement. By creating a supportive network, we aim to empower these young women to realize their full potential and contribute positively to their communities.

Future Goals:

Looking ahead, we aspire to expand our reach and impact by collaborating with more local partners, schools, and community organizations. We are also exploring opportunities to advocate for policy changes that address menstrual product access and support the educational needs of underserved communities.

At Princess and a Pad, we believe in the inherent strength and potential of every young woman. Through our initiatives, we strive to break down barriers, build a supportive community, and empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. Together, we work towards a future where no young woman is held back by financial constraints or societal challenges, and where every dream is within reach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I draw inspiration from a lineage of incredible women in my life, including my mother, grandmother, and other strong female figures who have left an indelible mark on my values and aspirations. These remarkable women have been my guiding lights, showcasing the power of love, resilience, and community support.

My mother, a source of unwavering strength and compassion, has been and will always be a constant inspiration. Her ability to navigate challenges with grace, prioritize family, and extend love to the community has shaped my understanding of leadership and service. Her sacrifices and dedication to our family have instilled in me the importance of empathy, hard work, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Equally influential is my grandmother, whose wisdom and resilience have left an enduring legacy. Growing up in a different era, she faced adversities with remarkable fortitude, and her stories of overcoming obstacles have been a source of inspiration. Her nurturing spirit and determination to create a better life for her family resonate deeply with me, fueling my own aspirations to contribute positively to my community.
Beyond my immediate family, I am inspired by a network of strong women in my community who have selflessly supported and uplifted others. These women, through their dedication to social causes, community building, and advocacy, have shown me the transformative power of collective action. Witnessing their impact has fueled my desire to create positive change on a broader scale.

In these women, I see the embodiment of strength, resilience, and the capacity to love and support not only their families but the community at large. Their examples have instilled in me a sense of responsibility to carry forward the legacy of service and empowerment.

I am inspired by the belief that, like these women before me, I have the capacity to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of my family and community. Their stories have fueled my determination to create initiatives and organizations that address pressing issues, foster community connection, and provide support where it is most needed.

Ultimately, the strength, resilience, and love demonstrated by my mother, grandmother, and other influential women in my life serve as a guiding force. They inspire me to approach my endeavors with compassion, determination, and a commitment to leaving a positive impact on the lives of those around me, just as they have done for their families and communities.

Website: www.princessandapad.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/princess_and_a_pad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/princessandapad

Image Credits
Michael Parks Photography