When 15 girls aged 11 to 16 arrived at the first EmpowerHer Girls Camp in July 2026, many were facing challenges relating to confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, body image and friendships.
Supported by funding from The Oakland Foundation, the five-day residential programme delivered by Shaw Control provided a safe and supportive environment where young people could build confidence, develop new skills and create lasting friendships.
Shaw Control Founder Hazel Shaw commented: “As a small organisation, it can be difficult to find the funding to try something different. I created EmpowerHer because I could see a real need to help girls recognise their own worth, feel empowered and become the best version of themselves, without being held back by self-doubt. I had a clear vision for what I wanted the camp to achieve, but it exceeded my expectations. In just five days, I saw genuine changes in the girls, and I feel incredibly proud that we were able to make a difference in their lives.
“The Oakland Foundation’s support gave us the opportunity to turn that vision into reality.”
Through more than 20 activities, including canoeing, horse riding, team-building challenges and wellbeing workshops, participants were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and discover strengths they didn’t know they had.
The impact was immediate. “I am more confident than I thought.”
Other participants described feeling: “I am worthy.” “I have a talent.” “Never say no, give it a go.”
Impact in Numbers
- 100% made new friends
- 85% felt more confident
- 69% tried something that scared them
- 62% said they knew where to get support
- 54% felt more positive about the future
- Average confidence scores increased to 7.8 out of 10
Staff also witnessed remarkable personal growth, with girls who arrived feeling shy and uncertain becoming active participants, supporting one another and celebrating each other’s achievements.
Making a Difference Beyond the Camp
The positive impact extended beyond the week itself, with parents reporting noticeable improvements in their children’s wellbeing and outlook.
One parent shared: “We are so grateful to Hazel and the team for the camp this summer. Our daughter was struggling with friendships, self-worth and was self-harming. Since camp she has become much more positive about herself, and her mental health has visibly improved. We would definitely recommend this camp to anyone.”
Creating Lasting Change
The EmpowerHer Girls Camp demonstrates how early intervention, and targeted support, can help young people overcome barriers, build resilience and realise their potential.
Thanks to Oakland Foundation’s funding these young women were given the opportunity to challenge themselves, build meaningful connections and leave with greater confidence in who they are and what they can achieve.