YWCA Glendale and Pasadena, in partnership with Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation, recently announced its participation in Pretty Empowered, a nationwide initiative taking place on Oct. 24 and designed to inspire and empower young women through education, wellness and career exploration. 

Pretty Empowered engages students in interactive sessions focused on wellness, cosmetic science, supply chain logistics and store operations, and STEM-based career pathways. This year’s theme is Beauty is Belonging and highlights the importance of inclusion and self-expression in shaping future leaders. YWCA Glendale and Pasadena expects to welcome approximately 100 students to participate in the program. The initiative emphasizes self-care, confidence and leadership development, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among participants. 

“Pretty Empowered builds on the work our Girls’ Empowerment Program does all year, helping young women see themselves as scientists, leaders and change-makers,” said Debra Suh, CEO of YWCA Glendale and Pasadena. “This year’s theme, Beauty is Belonging, reflects what we want each of our 100 participants to feel: that they belong in every space, from the lab to the boardroom. We’re grateful to the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation for making this experience possible for young women in our community.” 

Launched in 2022 by YWCA Metropolitan Chicago with support from the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation, Pretty Empowered has grown rapidly. From one site in its inaugural year to eight locations nationwide in 2024, the initiative has reached over 1,200 participants. 

Other participating YWCAs include YWCA El Paso Del Norte Region, YWCA Greater Atlanta, YWCA Kitsap County, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, YWCA Metropolitan St. Louis, YWCA Northern New Jersey and YWCA South Florida. 

Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation’s continued support has been instrumental in expanding Pretty Empowered. Its commitment to the holistic well-being of women and teens aligns with YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women. 

“Ulta Beauty is proud to continue our partnership with YWCA through Pretty Empowered, an initiative that reflects our shared commitment to helping young women realize their full potential,” said Amiee Bayer Thomas, chief retail officer at Ulta Beauty and board member for YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. “By creating spaces that foster confidence, belonging and curiosity, we’re helping young women 

explore new possibilities – in beauty, in STEM and beyond – and empowering the next generation of leaders.” 

For more information about Pretty Empowered or to get involved, contact Jomie Liu at jomieliu@ywcagp.org or visit www.ywcagp.org.