STEAM Sistahs Reflect & Rise: Closing 2025 with Purpose, Stepping into 2026 with Power

Celebrating Growth, Leadership, and Community as STEAM Sistahs Look Ahead

As we step into 2026, Sister to Sister International (STSI) proudly reflects on a powerful close to 2025—one rooted in sisterhood, leadership, hands-on STEAM learning, and community engagement. From outdoor wellness experiences to scientific exploration, cultural celebration, and civic partnership, our STEAM Sistahs continued to show up with curiosity, confidence, and purpose.

From November through January, STEAM Sistahs closed out 2025 with purpose, reflection, and momentum. In November, students stepped into wellness and sisterhood during a hiking excursion at Anthony Nose Trail, creating space to connect with nature while strengthening relationships and leadership skills. Throughout the month, students also reflected on their personal and academic growth through Goals Sessions, reinforcing intentional goal-setting as a core pillar of our program. We celebrated engagement with a Thanksgiving weekend raffle, awarding Amarachi Offurum a Barnes & Noble gift card in celebration of her commitment and participation.

In December, STEAM learning came to life at the Regeneron DNA Learning Center, where students took part in Code, Create, and Survive: The Darwin DNA Challenge. This immersive experience challenged participants to think critically, collaborate, and apply scientific concepts in a real-world setting—bringing innovation beyond the classroom.

The month closed with a powerful Kwanzaa Celebration on December 28, led by our students who facilitated the candle lighting and principal ceremony with confidence and pride. Our STEAM Sistahs also launched a social media campaign spotlighting STEAM alumni, strengthening intergenerational connections and honoring legacy within our community.

In January, we began the year with our MLK Community Partnership Luncheon, co-hosted with the African American Men of Westchester. The event reaffirmed STSI’s commitment to collective action, community collaboration, and developing purposeful young leaders alongside STSI board member Hon. Janet Malone.

Mark your Calendars

These upcoming experiences give our girls the chance to learn beyond the classroom, connect with leaders and professionals, and explore futures in advocacy, college, STEAM, and civic leadership.

Grace Baptist Church  HBCU Weekend

Thinking about college and want to learn more about Historically Black Colleges and Universities? Join HBCU Weekend at Grace Baptist Church for a powerful two-day experience designed to help students explore college options, campus culture, and life beyond HS. Colleges scheduled to have a presence include:

• Benedict College

• Bethune-Cookman College

• Clark Atlanta University

• Delaware State University

• Florida A&M University (FAMU)

• Hampton University

• Howard University

• Morehouse College

• Morgan State University

• Norfolk State University

• Spelman College and more!

  
  

  

---

Beauty Justice Sessions: February & April

We’re continuing our Beauty Justice work with two powerful opportunities for students to learn, lead, and advocate.

February 24: Beauty Justice Virtual Session (Zoom)Students will participate in a virtual session focused on advocacy, environmental justice, and civic leadership. They’ll learn what the Beauty Justice Act is, why it exists, how it impacts communities of color, and how young people can use their voices to advocate for healthier, safer communities.

April 3: Beauty Justice In-Person Session (Proposed)We’re also planning an in-person advocacy experience that may include meetings with AM Pretlow & Senator Stewart-Cousins. Transportation logistics to be coordinated. More details will be shared as plans are finalized.

---

Why You Should Be at the 2026 Youth MedTech & Finance Conference

Designed for students in grades 8–12, this FREE conference puts you face-to-face with professionals in healthcare, technology, and finance. Discover how innovation and problem-solving are shaping the future, improving health outcomes, building wealth, and creating real solutions.

What you’ll experience:

• Career insights + Q&A with industry professionals

• Future-ready skills colleges and employers look for

• Networking with peers across Westchester County

Keynote: Dr. Mzimeli Morris, MD, FACOG (NY-Presbyterian Westchester)

• Free breakfast & lunch included

  
  

Whether you’re focused on a future path or still exploring, you’ll leave with clearer next steps and a bigger vision for what’s possible

Upcoming Events & Announcements

Please RSVP for the following upcoming STSI STEAM Academy events:

February

February 16–19: Midwinter Recess (Local Public Schools)

February 21–22: STSI will collaborate with Grace Baptist Church for HBCU Weekend, supporting college access, exposure, and aspiration.

February 22–26- STEAM Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser (Online) Our annual online fundraiser returns! Teams will be formed, and participation is encouraged across students, families, alumni, and supporters.

February 24: Students will participate in a virtual session focused on advocacy, environmental justice, and civic leadership. They’ll learn "What the Beauty Justice Act?", why it exists, how it impacts communities of color, and how young people can use their voices to advocate for healthier, safer communities.

March

March 7: STSI students will participate in the MedTech & Finance Conference at Mercy University, expanding exposure to careers in healthcare innovation and financial systems.

March 21: Additionally, we have been invited by a community partner to attend the Girls for STEM One-Day Conference for 7th and 8th grade students.

March 30 – April 3: Spring Break (Local Public Schools)

April

April 3: Beauty Justice In-Person Session (Proposed) We are exploring an in-person advocacy experience that may include meetings with AM Pretlow and Senator Stewart-Cousins. Final logistics will be shared.

April 18: STSI Day of ActionLocation: New Rochelle High School – Linda E. Kelly TheaterThis signature event will bring together students, partners, and community members for learning, reflection, and action.

STEAM Camp & Ghana 2026

Sister to Sister International is excited to announce: STEAM Camp 2026 June 29 – July 11, 2026 with Graduation: Saturday, July 12, 2026. Pre-registration opens in February

Immediately following STEAM Camp 2026, STSI is planning a trip to Ghana. Dates, pricing, and fundraising opportunities will be announced soon. Families interested in participating or supporting fundraising efforts are encouraged to reach out so we can show early interest and begin planning.

CALL TO ACTION

Ready to keep the momentum going? Invite Black girls and girls of color in your life to join the STSI STEAM Academy. We offer year-round tutoring, hands-on industry experiences, leadership development, and a sisterhood rooted in the belief of lifting as we climb. Send a quick email to lsmith@s2si.org to learn more or to get started today.

Lydia K. Smith  

STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator  

Sister to Sister International  

Dr. Cheryl Brannan  

Founder and President  

Sister to Sister International