Diamond in the Rough Builds Confidence in Young Girls

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - Often times we forget to think of all the images that teens -- especially teenage girls -- are bombarded with. The numbers are frightening. 

Statistics say 62 percent of all girls feel insecure and 75 percent suffer with low self esteem. But one organization is working to change all that, one young lady at a time. 

"I really want to be successful and professional," said Shelby.

It's a unique mentoring program that helps them shine in many different ways and for Shelby, it was a healthy dose of self confidence.

"At my school, I've taken more of a leadership role because I'm more confident," said Shelby

They are planning for a Christmas party, and during the Christmas season, 17-year-old Jasmine really appreciates the gift she's been given all year long. Its not just fun and games, it's been a life changing experience and a lot of folks have noticed.

"I would have to say my whole community - I used to be a rough person. I didn't really care about people. They have given me confidence in myself - just so much this organization has given me," said Jasmine.

"Looking back at my life, I see the significance of mentoring," said Nicole Steele.

Nicole Steele is the founder of Diamond in the Rough. It's faith based and non-denominational. She's been reaching young ladies for more than eight years. She's reminded every day that the need now is greater than ever.

"This generation more than any other is bombarded with more images, more messages, especially young girls. Their brains arne't able to make sense of it all," said Steele

From community service to life skills to leadership, volunteers work tirelessly -- transforming the world one young lady at a time.

"They need a place where their voice is heard," said Steele

"I just had terrible self esteem," said Brianna.

While many fall between the cracks, the work the mentors are doing is greatly appreciated. Just ask 14-year-old Brianna. She says she's grown tremendously and now she's even helping her friends as a leader.

"I empower most of my friends that are going through most of the same things that I went through, said Brianna.

And for 12-year-old Monique, she's already starring in Off Broadway productions like The Lion King. She says the program has totally changed her spiritual outlook.

This Christmas, the ladies have each other to lean on. They are building better foundations and much brighter futures. Each day they sparkle more than the day before. Diamond in the Rough is making it cool to believe in themselves.

"You actually have friends that are on the same spiritual level that you are," said Monique.

"If we just save one, if we get one whose life is changed, it's all worth it," said Steele.

The program has reached more than 3,000 girls but there are many more on the waiting list. So the program can always use more resources and more volunteers. Right now, their programs are in full swing at many Gwinnett high schools and middle schools.

For more information on the program, visit www.ditr.org