OUR FOUNDER

Jamila Gales is a trailblazing law enforcement officer, community leader, and the visionary founder of Girls Reflecting Our World (G.R.O.W.)—a transformative mentorship program that has empowered over 100 inner-city girls in Boston with life skills, career development, and new opportunities that foster a growth mindset.

A lifelong Boston resident from Dorchester, Jamila’s journey is one of resilience, leadership, and impact. She excelled both academically and athletically as a record-breaking women’s basketball player while simultaneously earning three degrees  in Biology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology from the University of Massachusetts Boston. Determined to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities she serves, she joined the Law enforcement career in 2010, later obtaining a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and forensics from UMass Lowell, along with advanced certifications in leadership and community engagement.

In 2020, Jamila took her passion for mentorship to the next level when she was assigned to the Bureau of Community Engagement, allowing her to expand G.R.O.W. into a year-round initiative focused on academic enrichment, career readiness, wellness, and leadership development. By 2023, she launched GROW UP LEADHERSHIP, a pioneering program designed to mentor, sponsor, and uplift college- and career-bound young women, equipping them with the skills and network to thrive.

 

Today, as a mother of two, a dedicated law enforcement officer, and a mentor to over 70 youth, Jamila continues to push boundaries, innovate solutions, and champion the next generation of leaders. A natural problem-solver, she believes that every obstacle holds an opportunity for transformation—and she is committed to ensuring that young women recognize their power, take up space, and lead with confidence.
Her work isn’t just about mentorship—it’s about creating a movement where every girl, no matter where she comes from, has the resources, guidance, and belief to rise, lead, and thrive.