About
Natasha Paris St.Amand, M.Ed.,LPC.
Executive Director/President/Founder
As a mother to 2 teenagers, I understand the importance of guiding and protecting our children. I have dedicated over 20 plus years of my life to the improvement of children, adolescents and adults.
In 2019, I founded a non-profit organization called G.U.R.L.S (Girls Unapologetically Reaching Levels Successfully). When my daughter, Sayla V. was experiencing difficulty in the areas of self-esteem and understanding her developing body, I decided to create a program to help not only her, but also the many other girls who were also feeling stuck, Lost, Insecure and Depressed.
Along the way I have discovered my true passion and purpose. I believe that ALL women/Girls have a right to be free to grow, love, become Worthy, and to receive the necessary tools to become emotionally, mentally and spiritually successful.
I want all women/Girls to understand that they can level up and become winners at life. They can have the life they always dreamed of without apology. I want them to know that having it all and being confident inside and out is possible. Furthermore, they most Definitely deserve all that God intends for them. They not ONLY deserve it, BUT it is their birth right to have it ALL!
In Natasha’s spare time, she enjoys traveling and exploring new destinations and experiences. She also enjoying Dancing and attending culture events with loved ones.
Hello and I would like to introduce myself, I am Natasha Paris St. Amand. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY to Haitian Immigrants. I am a Mental Health Therapist Expert and a Licensed Clinical Therapist with a passion to serve.
I come from a background of Makeup Artistry, Styling, Etiquette Training and Psychology. I have combined my love for Mental Health and the Etiquette/Fashion Industry. I consider all aspects of the whole person (their Mind, their body and their Spirit) and EMPOWER them to become the best versions of themselves.
About Shantel Elessie MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Vice President
Shantel is most proud of being a wife and mother to her 4 children, all boys, who have taught her the precious values of self-care and patience. As a family they enjoy music, dancing, sports and fitness. As an individual you can find Shantel tapping into her own creativity with new art projects in restoring and repurposing found materials and most recently experimenting with plant based recipes.
Shantel decided to be a part of GURLS, Inc simply because she believes in the woman behind the vision and the God she serves. GURLS, Inc will be the catalyst for profound BELIEF. Belief in self, belief in abundance and belief in every young girl's dreams coming true. Self-doubt will no longer have a space to grow in their worlds. Only possibility to reach levels successfully.
Shantel’s personal goal is living a life of gratitude and taking happiness with her on life’s incredible journey. Teaching and supporting others in the belief that their life is a work of art. She encourages all to create the life you need, the one you can’t live without, and be open to transformation.
Shantel Elessie is a Board Certified and Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist in Maryland and a member of the American Art Therapy Association. She has a Bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University and a Masters degree from Drexel University. For over 15 years she has facilitated groups and individual sessions. Shantel currently serves as a Child and Family Art Therapist within a group private practice. She also facilitates training seminars for Employee Assistance Program (EAP) partnerships.
Clinically she aims to support individuals and families in their healing process by rebuilding trust and felt safety, improving communication and developing emotional regulation skills. Collaboratively art based interventions are utilized as a form of self-expression that encourages creativity, self-awareness, and authenticity.
About Leticia Osei Adu, MS-HSAD
Director of International Engagement
Before her career, Leticia has past experience in the non-profit and private sectors, as well as state and local government, focusing on at-risk and underserved populations. In addition to her professional role, she volunteers as the Operations Director for a local nonprofit supporting minority women in STEM, where she applies her expertise in leadership, strategic planning, program evaluation, and community outreach.
Leticia is passionate about mentorship and has witnessed firsthand the significant impact mentors can have on personal and professional development. She is particularly committed to supporting GURLS, Inc. an organization that helps young girls prepare for womanhood and build their self-esteem. With her experience in program management, youth development, and advocacy, Leticia is well-equipped to contribute effectively to initiatives aimed at empowering young women.
As a first-generation immigrant, Leticia understands the unique challenges of navigating cultural changes. She values the GURLS program for its role in helping young women manage these transitions and adapt to new cultural environments. Leticia believes that fostering self-confidence and leadership skills is crucial for young girls’ future success and personal growth.
In her spare time, Leticia enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and spending quality time with her loved ones.
Leticia Adu is a Maryland native originally from Ghana, West Africa. with over 10 years of experience in the federal government. Her expertise includes grants management, programmatic oversight, policy development, and providing training and technical assistance for federal financial assistance. Leticia holds a master’s degree in Human Services Administration from the University of Baltimore and undergraduate degrees in Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Political Science from Frostburg State University.
About Mariel Charlene Catarroja
Executive Administrator
Mariel Catarroja is a dedicated Executive Administrator from Philippines, with a background in psychology and licensure as a psychometrician. She utilizes her expertise in administration, content creation, and digital engagement to support businesses in optimizing their operations and enhancing their online presence.
In the past, Mariel and her family organized outreach programs to help children in need, reflecting her deep commitment to making a positive impact in her community alongside her professional endeavors.
In her spare time, she enjoys traveling to different places around the Philippines, exploring new destinations and experiences.
Support
Our Mission
Empower Young Girls through G.U.R.L.S., Inc.
