take control of your story
turning fear into action
I know what it is like to have anxiety control your story.
I didn't try and make new friends because anxiety told me they wouldn't like me.
I quit playing soccer when I changed schools because anxiety told me the team wouldn't accept me.
I gave up academically because anxiety told me I wasn't strong enough to achieve anything in the outside world.
I also know that many students today don't pursue what they love and give up on their dreams because anxiety tells them they can't.
what is The stand project?
The STAND Project is inspired by my TEDx talk and empowers students to find their voice, live life on their terms (not anxiety’s), and build meaningful connections with their peers. Through interactive experiences, students develop confidence, leadership skills, and a culture of empathy that transforms school communities.
why The stand project?
Many students struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and social pressure, making it difficult to speak up, connect with others, and take on leadership roles. While schools provide academic and extracurricular opportunities, students often need additional support to build social confidence, communication skills, and emotional resilience—all essential for success beyond the classroom.
✅ Addresses Social Anxiety & Self-Doubt – Helps students overcome fear of judgment and develop confidence in their voice.
✅ Creates a Culture of Empathy & Leadership – Encourages students to support each other, leading to a more connected school environment.
✅ Interactive & Action-Based – More than just a talk, The STAND Project immerses students in real-world confidence-building exercises that push them outside their comfort zones in a supportive way.
✅ Inspired by a TEDx Talk with a Proven Impact – Rooted in research-backed strategies that help students STAND up for themselves and their peers.
stand project core principles
🤟 self-love (building an unbreakable mindset)
Learning to value and accept your uniqueness that makes you you. From there, build unshakable mental strength and confidence to take on any challenge that comes your way.
😎 baby step uncomfortable challenges (pushing yourself outside your comfort zone & into the growth zone)
Encourage personal growth by stepping outside your comfort zone with small, manageable risks. Discover personalized ways to integrate this into students' daily lives.
💪 effort over results (focusing on the process & what you can control)
Learning that your effort is the ONLY thing you can control. Find ways to reinforce this thinking for each student individually.
The core principles of The STAND Project empower students to build confidence, find their voice, and develop the leadership skills needed to navigate life with resilience. By fostering self-expression, social confidence, emotional intelligence, and a mindset of personal growth, the program creates a supportive environment where students feel heard and valued. These principles not only help students break through self-doubt and fear but also encourage them to uplift and support their peers, contributing to a stronger, more connected school community.