Diamonds may be a woman’s best friend, but JEWELS is where women go to make connections. JEWELS is a new club on the Ybor City campus that brings women together on a level that is much deeper than just friendly acquaintances. To better understand JEWELS as a club, you need to break down their name; justifying every woman entitles love and support. “This started off with us being here and noticing all these different girls on campus and you don’t really see them walking in a joyous or happy mood; mostly you see them walking alone.” says Vice President Angenaika “Angie” Felix. “They say that, for college kids, that’s the loneliest time of your life. You’re away from your family, friends, and people that you really care about. What better than to join a club to keep your attention and has the interest to help keep you going.” Felix continued.

  During their first club meeting, members got to know each other through conversation and exchanging of ideas. Club president, Ciera Charles-Pierre wants to tell all members and all prospective members, “Get comfortable. Be comfortable. Be able to say what you feel…”, “I want you know that I’m your sister and that I’m here to give you that lending hand.”

  JEWELS has every intention of expanding on the Ybor City campus, and hopes to establish satellite clubs at all the campuses as well. The club leaders plan on making their club known throughout the campus and community with outreach and fundraising opportunities. Pierre, says, “Not only am I doing for the community, but I am here with my sisters. I am learning more and more about Angie every day, and she is learning about me.”

  Felix gave a detailed layout of how she would like the club to reach out to young women in high school. The club’s vice president explained that many young women in high school don’t have the funds to purchase a prom dress. Felix hopes to raise money, through the club, and help send some the young ladies to prom. It is Felix’s hope that these you young women would realize that there are people out there that are looking out for them, and that they themselves would look to establish a connection with JEWELS if they go to HCC.

  JEWELS may be centered on the fairer sex, but it is a club that welcomes all students who are willing to reach out, create and maintain friendships; regardless of gender. The club’s official meeting time is every Wednesday, from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., in the SGA conference room (pending change). To find out more information about the club’s meetings ( jem-sessions as they refer to them), or have any other questions about the club, feel free to email the club at jewelsinc@outlook.com.