About Us

#iAmSHE Women’s Empowerment Organization is dedicated to the advancement of minority women and girls, fostering a community centered on Sisterhood, Healing, and Empowerment. Founded by Xellex Z. Rivera in 2015, the organization was officially launched at the Hampton Inn in Yonkers, NY, where 25 women gathered to share their experiences, build meaningful connections, and create a foundation of support. What began as an intimate gathering has since grown into a transformative movement, empowering women nationwide through mentorship, networking, and personal development initiatives.

In May 2016, Xellex Rivera took a bold step forward, turning her vision into action by developing a mentorship and empowerment program for young women. Under the Rivera Sisters Foundation, she introduced Caterpillar Girls Inc., a program designed to uplift, guide, and mentor girls through a holistic approach to empowerment. Through #iAmSHE, this initiative laid the groundwork for women and girls to embrace their strength, foster resilience, and cultivate success.

In 2025, the Caterpillar Girls Mentorship Program officially launched under the umbrella of #iAmSHE Women’s Empowerment. Designed specifically for high school students, this program provides mentorship, leadership training, and personal development opportunities that equip young women with the confidence and skills necessary to navigate their futures. Rooted in sisterhood, Caterpillar Girls fosters healing and empowerment, offering a safe space for self-discovery and growth.

Expanding beyond its origins, #iAmSHE has traveled across the country, spreading its message of empowerment through personal mentorship, transparency, and motivational engagements. More than just an organization, #iAmSHE is a lifestyle—a movement that champions the success of women and girls, ensuring they have the support and resources to thrive.

Meet The Founder

Dr. Xellex Z. Rivera, known as “Dr. X,” is a proud native of the Bronx, New York, and a dedicated advocate for vulnerable populations. She holds a double Master’s Degree in Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Manhattan College, Riverdale, NY, and is a proud graduate of (an HBCU) Livingstone College, Salisbury, NC, where she majored in Liberal Arts and English. Initially aspiring to be a journalist, Xellex discovered her true calling in the field of mental health and social advocacy. Dr. X also holds a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from Walden University and an Executive Master’s in Business Administration from Howard University.

As one of the youngest C-Suite non-profit executives in New York City, Dr. X currently serves as the Chief Program Officer of Housing Solutions of New York. She has completed her doctoral work at Walden University with a concentration in Social Policy Analysis & Planning. Her impactful research, featured in Forbes Women and on Bronx Network, includes her dissertation titled “Experiences of Long-Term Stay Among Homeless Millennials in New York City Shelters,” which explores the narratives of millennials experiencing prolonged homelessness.

Xellex is deeply motivated to advocate for and develop programming for vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless community in NYC. Her work has garnered attention from major news outlets, including Fox News, CBS News, and NBC News. She is also a contributing author to the book “Ministry that Impacts,” published by the Re-Thinking Church Summit, and she actively educates and facilitates workshops on homelessness. In addition, Xellex serves as an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, teaching a transcontinental course between the New Jersey and Vancouver campuses, and is a Dissertation Mentor at Walden University. Outside of work and teaching, Xellex volunteers at community events including but not limited to food pantries, toy drive giveaways, collection of coats and socks for shelter residents and mentorship. She also hosts a virtual monthly mentorship session for young women interested in advancing in their career.

Raised by a single mother, Xellex embodies resilience and a relentless drive for success. Guided by her favorite Bible verse, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13), she embraces challenges with determination. Her involvement in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has instilled in her a strong work ethic and commitment to service.

Dr. X is also the Founder and CEO of the #iAmSHE Women’s Empowerment Organization, dedicated to advancing minority women and girls. Under the umbrella of the Rivera Sister’s Foundation, #iAmSHE focuses on providing holistic mentorship and fostering a sense of community and empowerment among women and girls. The organization has grown from 25 to over 85 participants through its successful Women’s Empowerment Conference, and it continues to expand its reach across states, promoting the message of sisterhood, healing, and empowerment. For Dr. X, #iAmSHE is more than a brand; it represents a transformative model for a positive lifestyle.

SHE Scholars

SHE Scholars is designed to promote higher education among minority women – whether undergraduate or graduate. The design of #SHE scholars will be assist minority women with excelling in their studies. It will provide one on one mentorship for all persons actively enrolled in school. #SHE Scholar Apparel will assist with the 2020 Goal of Hosting the First Annual #SHE Scholars Luncheon, where students will be able to apply for scholarships.

Are You A SHE Scholar

Core Values: Integrity. Authenticity. Vulnerability. Strength.

She Scholars is designed to promote higher education among minority women – whether undergraduate or graduate. The design of #SHE scholars will be assist minority women with excelling in their studies. It will provide one on one mentorship for all persons actively enrolled in school. #SHE Scholar Apparel will assist with the 2020 Goal of Hosting the First Annual #SHE Scholars Luncheon, where students will be able to apply for scholarships.