Building Confidence and Character in Every Child
The journey of our program began with a simple but powerful vision: to provide youth and adults with the tools to build unwavering self-esteem. Founded by Miss La Glenda Reed, the concept was birthed in Louisville, Kentucky, at St. Stephens Baptist Church. What started as a local initiative grew into a licensed, multi-faceted educational program that has served the Jefferson County Public School System, the Kentuckiana Girl Scouts, and numerous community centers for decades.
In 1992, our curricula—including Pre-Teen/Teen, Adult-Pro, and the Male Image Program—received licensure from the Kentucky State Board for Proprietary Education. Since then, we have remained dedicated to our mission of fostering self-development through professional modeling, image techniques, and problem-solving exercises.
Meet Our Founder: Miss La Glenda Reed
Miss La Glenda, the founder of Self Esteem Inc., is a distinguished educator and former professional model who has dedicated her life to empowering others. Her unique approach combines high-fashion poise with academic rigor.
A Legacy of Excellence
- Professional Background: A graduate of Plaza 3 professional school of modeling and the Bobby Ball Talent Center, Miss Reed was voted “Most Outstanding Instructor” for Barbizon in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Educational Foundation: She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Louisville and a Master’s Degree from Spalding University.
- Community Leadership: Beyond the classroom, she is a licensed real estate professional and an active member of organizations such as the NAACP Louisville Chapter, the National Council of Negro Women, and the National Action Network.
Currently, Miss Reed splits her time between Louisville, Kentucky, and Hollywood, Florida, ensuring her life-changing self-esteem programs reach students across regions.
Empowering Youth Through Confidence and Education
Discover how our programs impact young lives through measurable success and community growth.
1500
Students Served
Over 1,500 children aged 7-12 have participated in our transformative self-esteem curriculum.
8
Session Count
Our comprehensive eight-session program integrates modeling, discussions, and problem-solving.
25
Partner Organizations
Collaborating with more than 25 community groups, including schools and youth clubs.
100
Volunteer Hours
Dedicated volunteers have contributed over 100 hours to support our free educational services.
Our Future Vision
We are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our youth. Our future plans include the opening of a dedicated center for pre-teen youth to address critical challenges such as obesity, low self-esteem, and academic performance, with a specific focus on literacy and reading.
Our Organizational Affiliations
We are proud to stand alongside organizations that champion progress and equality:
- St. Stephens Baptist Church
- NAACP Louisville Chapter
- National Council of Negro Women
- Kentucky Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression
- Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH®)