Empowering Women of Color to Rise & Lead

Representation Matters

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower women of color from underserved and underrepresented communities through mentorship, leadership and professional development, and through community-centered programming that creates pathways to success in law, leadership, and higher education.

Our Purpose

Our purpose is to close opportunity gaps and increase representation by creating access to resources, mentorship, and networks that women of color need to thrive. Through intentional programming and community engagement.

2026 Mentor Applications Are Officially Open

This 6-month mentorship program July - December supports pre-law applicants from underserved and underrepresented communities applying to law school in the 2026–2027 admissions cycle by connecting them with attorneys, law students, and legal professionals who provide guidance, insight, and support throughout the application process.

Mentor Application

Upcoming Events.

We invite you to attend our upcoming in-person and virtual events, featuring dynamic workshops, professional networking opportunities, and mentorship experiences.

Designed to support women of color in their pursuit of higher education and legal careers, these events are tailored to foster growth, leadership, and long-term success.

Learn more

Celebrating one of our mentorship matches during our 2025 Cohort. ⚖️

Representation Matters: The Power of Purposeful Mentorship. We proudly highlight Ashley Smith, a senior at UNC–Chapel Hill double majoring in Information Science & Media & Journalism, and Jewel Crouch, a J.D. candidate at Suffolk University Law School.
National Mentorship Month is a reminder of the power of guidance, access, and representation.

At Empower Her Rise, mentorship is the foundation of our work. Connecting women of color with the support, resources, and community they need to pursue higher education, law, and leadership. Together, we are building a future where no woman has to rise alone.
At Empower Her Rise, mentorship is the foundation of our work.

Connecting women of color with the support, resources, and community they need to pursue higher education, law, and leadership. Together, we are building a future where no woman has to rise alone.

Testimonials

Amara 2025 Intern: Second-Year Honors Political Science Student, North Carolina Central University

Since completing my internship with empower her rise, I have grown into several leadership roles.
“Serving as a Social Media Intern with was a transformative experience that strengthened both my professional skill set and personal confidence. The mentorship, resources, and supportive community equipped me with the tools to successfully navigate my academic journey and pursue leadership opportunities with confidence.
Jordan 2025 Mentee: Incoming 1L

“Being part of the 2025 Mentorship c cohort has been an incredible experience.
I have truly valued the opportunity to learn from my mentor Tobi and gain insight into the law school admissions process. This program has provided a strong support system that has helped guide and strengthen my preparation for law school. I am thankful to Empower Her Rise for investing in aspiring legal professionals like me.”
Sara 2025 Mentee: First Generation Pursuing a legal career

“I am honored to be part of the Empower Her Rise mentorship program and excited to grow alongside other women of color pursuing careers in law.”
“Law became the path where my values—justice, advocacy, and service—intersect. I want to become an attorney who empowers marginalized communities by making the legal system more accessible, humane, and just.”
Eliza 2026 Campus Ambassador - First Session

“I joined EmpowerHer Rise because of my passion for increasing representation of women of color in the legal field and addressing the lack of diversity within the profession. Meeting POC students just like me has given me the power to keep moving forward.
Being a Campus Ambassador with Empower Her Rise allows me to actively contribute to this mission while growing as a leader, advocate, and mentor within my campus and community.”
Kamren 2025 Mentee: First Generation Student Pursing Law

“An impactful organization and experience for pre-law students. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this incredible mentorship program. I am truly grateful for this amazing opportunity and excited for what lies ahead. The sessions were very helpful and made me feel less alone throughout this journey.”