On Saturday, August 1, 2026, the vision became real. Women from across the community gathered at 226 The Warehouse in Fayetteville, NC, for the inaugural Girlfriendz event — Where Are My Girlfriends? — and it was everything we hoped it would be.
An Afternoon of Sisterhood
From 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the room filled with authentic conversation, meaningful connections, and inspiring stories. Women from diverse backgrounds came together to share their experiences, insights, and journeys — proving that when women gather with intention, something powerful happens.
The Panel
Our moderated panel featured four remarkable women who shared their wisdom and lived experience:
- Senator Valencia Applewhite — North Carolina’s 19th Senate District
- Paulette Bryan, LCSW — Certified TF-CBT Therapist
- Dr. Melanie C. Shorter, DDS — Community leader and dentist
- Michelle McKenney — The Skin Alchemist
The conversation was honest, vulnerable, and deeply moving — exactly the kind of dialogue Girlfriendz exists to create.
Emcee for the Afternoon
Akilah Davis, Race & Culture Reporter for ABC11, guided the afternoon with warmth and grace, keeping the conversation flowing and the energy grounded.
A Moment to Remember
What’s Next
This was just the beginning. The sisterhood is getting started, and we’re already planning more connection-centered experiences. If you weren’t able to join us this time, stay connected — there’s more to come.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @girlfriendzinc for updates on future events and glimpses into the sisterhood.
Thank you to every woman who showed up, shared her story, and made this gathering what it was. This is what gathering, connecting, and celebrating looks like.