SugarBelle's 2026 DoorBelle Program inspires Young Women Leaders

SugarBelle Boutique has announced its signature DoorBelle Program that will bring to the attention of girls ages 10-12 basic business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills during the summer. Founded in 2013 by entrepreneur, educator and community leader Cherimie Weatherford, the program has been providing real-world hands-on learning experiences, confidence and practical skills for young girls for over a decade.

Selected participants in the DoorBelle Program will have the opportunity to attend an immersive one-week workshop July 27 - July 31, 2026, to build leadership skills and entrepreneurial thinking. Participants will be trained in public speaking, customer service, merchandising, marketing, teamwork, professionalism, business etiquette and confidence building throughout the program.

In addition to classroom based learning, the program gives girls a chance to learn how a successful small business functions on a day-to-day basis. Participants have the opportunity to meet customers, to work with mentors, and to meet local business and community leaders, and to gain real-world experience of how businesses are created and sustained. The experiences foster communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities and promote creativity and self-confidence, organizers say.

Since its inception, the DoorBelle Program has become a cornerstone of SugarBelle Boutique's community outreach efforts. The organizers report that numerous former DoorBelles have entered into leadership roles in school and community groups and others have started up businesses and businesses based on the program. The project has been successful in providing a space for young girls to embrace their abilities and equip them for future success in school and careers.

Key Highlights:

• SugarBelle opens applications for its 2026 DoorBelle summer mentorship program for girls aged 10–12
• Participants will gain hands-on experience in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship
• The program aims to build confidence and prepare young girls for future leadership roles

The week-long workshop will culminate in a special DoorBelle graduation ceremony, which will include presentations of certificates and an awards program celebrating each participant's accomplishments and personal development. The celebration is expected to be attended by families, mentors, and community supporters, who will be able to take part in the festivities and share in the success of the participants.The celebration will feature various activities, such as speeches and presentations, to showcase the achievements of the young participants and celebrate their progress in leadership development.

“We created the DoorBelle Program to open doors for young girls, especially those who may not yet envision themselves as future business leaders,” said Weatherford, owner of SugarBelle, Executive Director of the Freedman Arts District, and founder of the DoorBelle Program. “When we nurture confidence, curiosity, and leadership at an early age, we empower young women to dream bigger, believe in themselves, and recognize that their ideas and talents have value.”

The program is intended to "introduce people to opportunities that they might not otherwise be exposed to at an early stage in their life," Weatherford said. This will blend mentorship and real-world business experience to inspire girls to consider unconventional career choices and foster an entrepreneurial spirit that will serve them well in their future endeavors.

The organizers announced that the applications for the 2026 DoorBelle Program are now open and are asking for the families to apply early as there will only be a limited number of spaces available. With a new year now coming, SugarBelle Boutique asserts its dedication to growing the next generation of female business leaders through relevant mentorship, business education and avenues to build confidence, drive ambition and foster a love for lea