Our History

Pretty Young Girls, originally founded as a small group in 2014 at Faith Walkers Church, has evolved into a 501(c)3 nonprofit mentoring organization. Initiated by our founder, NaKaria Barfield, at the age of 14, the organization began as a way to foster connections among young girls in her church, assuming the role of a big sister and mentor. Under the guidance of Pastor Kelvin Bryant, Pretty Young Girls initially catered exclusively to the members of Faith Walkers Church.

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Recognizing the broader need for mentorship, NaKaria expanded the organization's scope beyond the church walls to encompass young girls throughout Birmingham and eventually nationwide. In 2016, the organization briefly paused within the church but was revitalized in 2019 when NaKaria officially reestablished Pretty Young Girls as a nonprofit mentoring organization in the state of Alabama.

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From 2019 to 2021, PYG actively participated in community initiatives, including the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk, toiletry and hygiene product collections for local women and children's center, a donation drive for pillows and blankets to aid the less fortunate in the greater Birmingham area, and outreach to the homeless population. Even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization persisted, conducting regular meetings via Zoom while adhering to CDC guidelines.

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In 2022, the organization underwent a temporary pause, only to reemerge stronger in April 2023, achieving official 501(c)3 status and relaunching on May 4, 2023. Since this relaunch, Pretty Young Girls has dedicated itself to providing young girls in Birmingham, AL, and surrounding areas with a reliable "big sister" mentor figure. Emphasizing the values of passion, purity of heart, and unwavering faith, PYG is committed to being active leaders in the community, providing valuable resources to its members, and instilling the importance of giving back. The organization remains steadfast in following the vision and plan set forth by its founding principles and the guidance of a higher purpose.