We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Toi Henderson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Toi below.

Toi, appreciate you joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was sharing my story publicly. As the oldest girl of ten siblings, I experienced childhood trauma that shaped much of my early life. For years, I kept those experiences to myself because I feared being judged or misunderstood. When I started my nonprofit, I realized I couldn’t explain my mission without sharing the story behind it. Choosing to be vulnerable was scary, but it allowed me to connect with others, inspire young girls, and build something meaningful from my experiences. Looking back, taking that risk helped me find both purpose and healing.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m the founder of Muse Mentorship Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering teen girls through mentorship, confidence-building, and life skills. By day, I serve as a Director of Administration for a law firm, but my passion is creating opportunities for young women to thrive. I started Muse because I wanted to build the support system I wish I had growing up. Today, our work helps girls develop self-confidence, healthy relationships, and leadership skills while reminding them that their past does not define their future. I’m most proud of creating a space where girls feel seen, valued, and inspired to become their best selves.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Resilience, to me, is choosing to keep moving forward even when life gives you every reason not to. As the oldest girl of ten siblings, I experienced challenges and childhood trauma that could have easily defined my future. Instead, I chose to turn my pain into purpose. Starting Muse Mentorship Collective wasn’t just about helping young girls it was about breaking cycles and creating the support system I wish I had growing up. There were many moments of self-doubt, setbacks, and fear along the way, but each challenge reinforced my commitment to the mission. My journey has taught me that resilience isn’t about never struggling; it’s about continuing to show up, heal, and help others while doing so.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Muse Mentorship Collective was built through a combination of passion, personal investment, and a belief that the work needed to be done. I funded everything myself from program materials and supplies to branding and operational costs. Rather than waiting until I had perfect funding in place, I chose to start with what I had and grow from there.

Today, I continue to invest in the organization while researching grant opportunities, sponsorships, and community partnerships that will help us expand our impact. Building a nonprofit has taught me that sometimes the most important investment isn’t financial it’s having the courage to start before you feel fully ready. Every workshop, mentorship session, and student we’ve reached has been proof that the mission is worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.musementorshipcollective.org
• Instagram: @musementorshipcollective
• Facebook: Muse Mentorship Collective
• Linkedin: @musementorshipcollective