Getting girls together to express themselves, build sisterhood and get educated about topics that affect their age group was what the Girl's Talk Conference 2010 was all about. The all-day conference, held at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess during the recent Spring break, was for girls 11-14 years old and was organised by Andresa Julien-Osborne, a 26-year-old teacher at Dellwood Middle School. As Mrs. Julien-Osborne's first conference, it was a major success with between 80 and 100 girls in attendance.

The purpose of the Girl's Talk Conference was to give something back to girls and encourage them to build sisterhood. Mrs. Julien-Osborne mentioned that she remembered feeling misunderstood between these ages, having to deal with the physical changes of her body as well as the emotional changes that accompany them. As a middle school teacher, Mrs. Julien-Osborne was able to observe girls, and she realised that many of them were misguided or had no idea about how to carry themselves.

"Studies show that habits that the girls form between these ages stay with them forever. It is important that girls be true to themselves, their spirit and their morals. Girls should also look at quotes daily to remind them of how great they are," Mrs. Julien-Osborne remarked. Mrs. Julien-Osborne's favourite quote is "Our Deepest Fear" by Marianne Williamson. Mr. Anthony Peets was the first speaker of the conference and discussed the dangers of the Internet and stressed that the girls have respect for themselves and others, resist negativity from others and take responsibility for their actions. "The one thing you have is your character, your character is who you are," expressed Mr. Peets.

Interactive presentations were used by Ms Michelle Wade and Ms Nina Jones from Teen Services to educate the girls on healthy relationships, wise decision-making and sex.

As young ladies' table etiquette and manners are extremely important, Mr. Irving Raynor encapsulated information, rules and pictures into a brochure for the girls, on how to be a lady at the table.

A few of the participants interviewed stated that they thoroughly enjoyed themselves and would gladly attend another Girl's Talk Conference.

Aaronika Thomas stated, "I was interested in this conference because I was excited that I would be able to express my feelings without being judged."

"I like fashion, arts and crafts and having a good time! I enjoyed this experience because I was able to build self-confidence, walk the walk, talk the talk and be myself," exclaimed Bethsheba Jones.

"When Mr. Peets told us that nothing is ever deleted from the Internet, I was surprised! Most of the information I learned at the conference was new to me. Initially, I was apprehensive, but it turned out to be great as I made new friends," expressed Destinee Taylor.

Overall, Girl's Talk 2010 provided an extremely positive atmosphere for the girls to learn, express and share feelings with others who could relate to them.