Identity is the beginning.
Opportunity is the next step.
We connect girls and young women with practical knowledge, supportive relationships and experiences that expand what they see as possible.
Guidance for life.
Tools for the future.
Our mission is to empower girls and young women through education, entrepreneurship, mentorship, financial literacy, career exploration, life skills, leadership, culture and creative expression.
We envision a community where every young woman has access to the guidance and opportunities to recognize her potential and confidently shape her future.
Serving ages 13–24 in Onondaga County, our approach respects different experiences and adapts learning to age and developmental stage.
“I became her. Now I want to help the next generation discover who they can become.”
A journey turned into purpose.
Jaquanah’s early interest in hair was inspired by watching her cousin Shikira, whose work focused primarily on locs. That inspiration became part of a broader love for beauty, creativity and self-expression.
Jaquanah established her aesthetics business, Glam, in 2015. She later developed IDentity, inspired by her passions for locs, poetry, fashion and mentoring.
For Jaquanah, IDentity means embracing individuality while being bold, brave, creative and continually becoming. Bringing these two visions together, she created IDentity X Glam—a brand shaped by beauty, self-expression and purpose.
Her entrepreneurial journey also includes her own mink lash line, IDentity X Glam Mink Lashes by Jaquanah M. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to creativity, leadership and helping others recognize their potential.
Through IDentity X Her, she carries those lessons forward, connecting girls and young women with mentorship, creative expression, education and practical skills.
Small moments.
Meaningful beginnings.
At a recent SAS speaking engagement, Jaquanah shared her entrepreneurial journey and encouraged scholars to explore their own interests and possibilities.
All 22 scholars signed up for a loc class afterward, with a salon field trip planned. Their curiosity and enthusiasm reflect the purpose behind this work.
The Good Life Youth Foundation
Jaquanah facilitated a loc class for The Good Life Youth Foundation’s Entrepreneur Boot Camp, sharing hands-on skills and introducing young people to the connection between creativity, entrepreneurship and career possibilities.