OVERVIEW
col·our
[kuhl-er]
noun: colour
-
the property possessed by an object of producing different sensations on the eye as a result of the way the object reflects or emits light.
-
pigmentation of the skin, especially as an indication of someone's race.
Vision
To see confident young women valuing themselves as equal contributors to society overcoming obstacles that stand in the way of their success
Mission
Stimulate, Activate and Engage
To provide tools and resources that encourage girls, and women to actualize their potential making the impossible, possible so they can begin to create change in their community
Purpose
Seek to encourage young women to be the best them they can be while being the trailblazer who creates paths for success
We intentionally address the issues hindering young women from academic, social, psychological, and economical success

MSC2023
Hip-Hope Inc. and Drake University are excited to announce our 6th annual “Know Your Worth” Many Shades of Colour Young Women’s Conference March 4, 2023, at Drake University Olmsted Center.
We are excited to host 300 young women and 50 mentors this year as we step into a new season adjusting our crowns. We are impacting the lives of young women and mentors through their participation. This conference will provide our participants an opportunity to engage in the following activities:
-
Interactive breakout sessions to develop realistic, achievable, short, and long-term goals.
-
Workshop presenters include educators, corporate professionals, and community leaders who will focus on topics such as leadership, team building, academic achievement, self-worth, financial responsibility, cultural competency/awareness, emotional intelligence and civic engagement.
-
Keynote speakers, who will motivate and inspire the young women’s potential for success.
-
Mentors will learn different strategies that will enhance their leadership skills.
For more details about the conference click on the following tabs.
Meet Your Co-Chairs

Valora’ James
founder of Art of Hope Consulting, LLC.was born and raised in Des Moines, IA. She graduated from the Des Moines Public School system. She went on to further her education at William Penn University getting her Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and graduated with a Master degree in Business Leadership. She also graduated from the African American Leadership Academy and currently attending the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute. Valora’ is employed at Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield where she serves as a Senior Advocate in Customer Service.

Valerie Jones
Vice President of Hip Hope Inc.
Co-Chair of the “Know Your Worth” Many Shades of Colour Young Women’s Conference
Owner of Jones Cleaning & Remodeling Services, LLC.
Youth Pastor at Anchored In Truth Ministries, Edwardsville, IL
Founder of Day1withVal & Faith & Wellness Coach in The Wellness Village
Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Bachelor of Science Degree, T&C Design, Merchandising, & Production, Iowa State University