WHAT IS GXC?

UYS’s Girl Exchange segment, better known as “GXC,” is one of the most fundamental and impactful portions of the UNIQUELY YOU SUMMIT for Girls experience and our ancillary programming. During and throughout the weekend (and the FOR THE LOVE OF BLACK GIRLS™ Summer Camp), Black girls are appropriately grouped by grade & age so that the shared experiences among these groups can be discussed in a safe and intimate environment with peers.

Girls can spend 60-70% of the UYS Weekend in their GXC Groups led by an adult UYS Girl Exchange Leader. GXC Leaders are Black adult women volunteers (many who are teachers, therapists, social workers or counselors by profession) who are tasked with and encouraged to create space and conversation where the unique experiences of Black girls, that are regularly left out of popular American culture, can be had.

We believe GXC conversations during the UYS Weekend help to eliminate the perceptions of isolation often experienced by Black girls in traditionally White spaces where they can feel unheard, unseen and un-honored.

Past UYS participants have described GXC as the place they have found healing and solace, made life-long sister-friends, and sometimes met a peer-mentor.

THE GXC GOAL:

To create safe space for Black girls where oneness and solidarity are nurtured and protected.

THE GXC TEAM

NATIONAL MANAGING DIRECTOR

Brandi Mapp-Evans, M.Ed.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

Lyn N. Atkins, M.Ed.

GXC CORE TEAM MEMBERS

April L. Everett, MBA MJ
Christina Merriweather, M.Ed.
Danielle M. Parks, MPH

Questions?

Please email gxc@uniquelyyousummit.org. The team will respond within 48 hours.

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A LEADER?

GIRL EXCHANGE LEADER (GXL) GENERAL EXPECTATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • This is a volunteer role. GXLs are not paid.

  • This for adults only. Must be 25 years or older. (The age requirement does not apply to UYS Alumnae).

  • GXLs will need to provide a copy of their child & criminal clearances:

    • CHILD ABUSE CLEARANCE - FREE (there is no cost if one hasn’t been ordered in 57 months. If you already have a child abuse clearance, you can submit that).

    • CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK - FREE (if you are not a Pennsylvania resident, please be sure to search for your state's website for a criminal background). For questions, please email gxc@uniquelyyousummit.org.