Jamila Gales
Founder of Girls Reflecting Our World, Boston Police Officer Community Initiatives Liaison
“It is our responsibility as adults to show young people what they are capable of and allow them to imagine beyond their limits. Creating spaces that make them more aware of themselves, their communities and where they are going is the key to enabling them to see themselves positively reflected in the world. Empowering our youth today with unique opportunities is critical in building future successful leaders of tomorrow."
To know Jamila is to witness what true service looks like: a leader who works every day to help young people create a bright future. A 13-year Boston Police Officer, Jamila founded Girls Reflecting Our World. GROW provides life skills, resources, empowerment, and new experiences to promote growth mindsets, with the goal of empowering girls to succeed in life and build relationships with their communities.
Jamila is a lifelong resident of Boston. She graduated from the John D. O'Bryant High School of Mathematics and Science, and then from UMASS Boston with a triple major in Biology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology. At UMass, Jamila was a record-breaking basketball player, served as team captain and received many academic and athletic awards. Jamila studied Biomedical Forensics at Boston University and earned an MA in Criminal Justice from UMass Lowell.
Mother of two, career police officer and mentor, Jamila thrives on inspiring and advocating for the next generation of leaders. As a leader, Jamila is a problem solver who thinks outside the box. Jamila is most empowered by creating spaces for women and girls to express themselves and grow.
We treasure the opportunity to amplify our work through Jamila and the young people she serves.