 Young African American, Afro-Latina, and Latina women collaborating and connecting in an innovation center. This conversation takes place between Ebony, Nadine, Nicole Bakula, Sharlene, and a group of 10 girls (grades 6–12) and their mothers at an Innovation Center in a suburban Atlanta recreation center. Scene: Community Room, Innovation Center – Early Evening The room hums with chatter as mothers and daughters settle into a semi-circle of colorful chairs. A projector glows with the title slide: “Safety First Series: Social Media Is Not Real Life.” Ebony stands at the front with Nadine, Nicole Bakula, and Sharlene seated beside her. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Ebony: (smiling warmly) Alright, y’all. Welcome. Tonight, we’re gonna talk about something that affects all of us—especially y’all who’ve grown up with phones in hand--social media. But not from a place of judgment. We just want to open up a real conversation about what it is... and what it is not. Maya: So... like, how do y’all feel about it? Do you use social media every day? Nadine: Hmm... (smiling thoughtfully) That’s a good one. I actually don’t post often. Even though I love taking pictures and documenting memories, especially of my family, I usually keep those private. My camera roll is full! But I think about what’s worth sharing and who it’s really for. Sharlene: (laughs) Yes! I’m old school. I don’t post at all. In fact, my team runs my business accounts. I like to create content, sure, but I don’t need to be in it. I don’t need to share every part of my life to feel valid. Honestly, I don’t want strangers knowing my every move. Selena: But isn’t it kinda weird to not be on at all? Like, don’t you miss out? Nicole Bakula: I hear you. It’s tricky. I limit my time on social media. I don’t even have TikTok or any dating apps—never downloaded them. For me, it’s about boundaries. I still talk with friends, but I don’t feel like I need to be everywhere online. There’s power in being selective. Ebony: That’s real. And can I just say--likes don’t equal your worth. You can post the funniest or deepest thing and barely get any attention, and someone else posts a dancing cat, and it goes viral. Social media doesn’t always reward what's meaningful. It rewards what grabs attention. Gloria: That’s so important. I’ve seen my daughter sad because a post didn’t get enough likes. And I get it—it feels personal. Lupita: Sometimes it’s hard not to compare yourself. Like, everybody looks so happy online. Nadine: (nodding) And that’s the trap. Most of what we see is curated. It's like a highlight reel—not the messy, honest stuff. People don’t post their breakdowns or their rejections, just their wins. Sharlene: And some of it’s exaggerated. Some folks are performing a version of their life for the camera—filters, staging, even lies. And it makes us feel like we’re the only ones struggling. But we’re not. Nicole Bakula: Exactly. We all need moments off-screen to reconnect with reality. That’s why I unplug regularly. Just because something can be posted, doesn’t mean it should be. Ebony: (to the girls) Let me ask y’all this—have you ever looked at someone’s post and thought, “Wow, their life is perfect”? (Several girls nod slowly.) Ebony: Yeah. But remember—some of the happiest-looking posts come from folks who are struggling. Don’t base your worth on a picture you saw at 2 a.m. while scrolling. Michelle: So what do you post? If anything? Sharlene: (smiling) Professional things only. Maybe a campaign or an event. But never personal. I’ve learned the hard way to keep what’s sacred offline. Nadine: Same here. I post intentionally—artwork, design projects, or something that might encourage someone. But never out of pressure. If I don’t feel like sharing, I don’t. Nicole Bakula: I focus on impact. If it’s useful, uplifting, or aligns with my values, I might share it. Otherwise, I let it live offline. Ebony: And me? I post when I want to celebrate something I’m proud of, or to uplift someone else. But I’m not gonna post for likes. I’ve had to learn to keep some wins just for myself. Iman: So it’s okay to post less? All (together): Yes! Ebony: It’s more than okay—it’s powerful. You don’t have to post everything to be somebody. You already are. Nicole Bakula: You’re allowed to have a private life. You’re allowed to rest, to not respond, to delete, and to say no thanks to trends that don’t feel good. Nadine: Just ask yourself, “Who is this for?” If you’re posting to impress strangers or to prove something, take a breath. Your peace is more important. Ebony: (gestures to the group) We’ll leave y’all with this: Social media is not real life. Real life is happening right here, in this room, with people who love you, who support you, and who see you—not through a filter. The room falls into reflective silence as the projector fades to black, replaced with the words: “Be intentional. Be real. Be safe.” ✨ Reflect & Write Prompts: Reflect on the following prompts and write out your responses. 🌐 Understanding Social Media Habits
💫 Reclaiming Self-Worth & Beauty Beyond the Screen
 Dedicated to uncovering digital truths. This Digital Forensics Analyst, with her keen eye and vibrant red hair, is deeply immersed in her work. 🔐 Digital Forensics Analyst (or Computer Forensics Investigator)
🔍 Digital Detectives: Is It Real or Just for the 'Gram?
"Welcome, Digital Detectives! You’ve been hired to investigate whether the content you're seeing on social media reflects real life… or if it’s just for show. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to uncover the hidden clues in a few posts, ask critical questions, and report your findings." Time: 30–45 minutes Tools Needed:
🧭 Objective:To critically explore social media posts in real time and reflect on what might be curated, exaggerated, or intentionally filtered. Strengthen your digital literacy and confidence by distinguishing between online portrayals and real life. 📝 Instructions:🌐 Step 1: Choose Your Feed Open one of your favorite social media apps (or visit a public page). Choose 3–5 posts that catch your attention. Look for:
🕵️♀️ Step 2: Investigate the Posts For each post, discuss the following questions together. You can record your answers in a digital worksheet or voice memo:
🟥🟩 Step 3: Tag It—Real or Curated? For each post, decide as a team:
💬 Step 4: Share & Reflect Talk through these closing reflection questions together:
🧠 Optional Extension/Reflection:“How can we remind ourselves and others that we are more than what we post?” “What does it mean to post with honesty or intention?” 💡 Optional Final Prompt:Write or voice-record your own personal reminder. Here are a couple of examples: “Just because it’s online doesn’t mean it’s real. I am enough just as I am.” OR “Before I post, I will ask: Who is this for? What am I really sharing?”
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✨ Reflect & Write: Creating Safe Online Environments & Protecting Others ✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions
A confident Afro-Latina Corporate Privacy Engineer with beautiful, long curly hair smiles in her modern office, a digital network diagram on a screen in the background.
Corporate Privacy Engineer 💼🛡️ Designs systems and tools that safeguard employee data such as payroll, health records, and contact info. Works with HR and IT departments to manage access controls and security policies. Saturday Morning Workshop – “Your Digital Space, Your Rules” Location: A local high school media center. Coffee, snacks, and chargers are set out on a table. Njoki sits in a circle with a group of high school girls and their mothers. Everyone has their phones nearby. The room is casual and welcoming. Njoki: Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for being here. I wanted us to have a real conversation—not just about what we see online, but how we build spaces that protect us and others. So let me ask you this: have you ever been in a virtual meeting and noticed something in someone’s background that made you uncomfortable? Kayla (16): Ugh, yes! One time, a girl had her whole medicine cabinet open behind her during a Zoom. You could read the labels on everything! Mrs. Jackson (Kayla’s mom): Oh nooo. That’s the kind of thing you don’t even realize is visible until someone screenshots it. Njoki (nodding): Exactly. That’s what I mean by protecting the space. When we host or even just participate in online sessions, we have to be intentional about what’s showing—and what might show up later. Ava (17): I once saw someone’s baby brother’s school info on the fridge during a class. Full name and school name on a flyer. Njoki: That's such a good example. It’s not always about our information, either. It’s about being mindful that we’re protecting everyone who shows up in our frame—even if they didn’t choose to be seen. Mrs. Gomez (mother of two): I didn’t know much about Zoom privacy settings until my job required us to do webinars. I had my full name and personal email just out there—no password on the meeting either. Njoki: That’s real. And for folks in roles like yours—where you’re managing information for others—it’s even more important. Simple things like turning off name displays or using nicknames for kids in group calls can go a long way. Laila (15): Can we talk about identity theft for a second? Because my mom had her info stolen last year and it was… actually kind of scary. Mrs. Thompson (her mom, visibly unsettled): It was awful. Someone used my social to apply for loans I didn’t take out. All because I posted a “new job announcement” with too much detail and used my birthday month in the caption. They pieced it all together. (The room gets quiet.) Njoki (softly): Thank you for sharing that. I know that wasn’t easy. And I’m really sorry that happened to you. It shows how something that feels celebratory can be turned into a vulnerability. That’s why identity protection isn’t just about keeping your passwords strong—it’s about thinking, “What does this post reveal about me that a stranger could use?” Zuri (16, trying to lighten the moment): I’m over here changing my Instagram bio in real-time. (Everyone laughs a little, the tension breaking.) Njoki (smiling): Hey, that’s growth in action. Mrs. Wilson: So how do we balance it? Like, we want to be proud of our kids, share moments, celebrate wins... but how do we keep it safe? Njoki: That’s the big question. I like to say: “If it feels like an announcement, make it private. If it feels like a memory, ask who needs to see it.” Not everything has to be for everyone. Kayla: Okay wait, that’s kind of deep. Mrs. Jackson (grinning): We need that on a mug. Njoki: So let’s close with this: What does a safe online space mean to you? Not just for yourself—but for your family, your friends, your community. Ava: A place where I don’t feel judged for what I don’t share. Laila: Where people know I care about them even if I don’t repost everything they post. Mrs. Thompson: Where I don’t have to explain why I protect my peace. Even digitally. Njoki: Yes. Yes. All of that. Safe online spaces don’t just happen—they’re built. And you all are already doing the work. Scene Ends: Moms and daughters exchange ideas, hugs, and plans to check their account settings when they get home. Njoki leaves them with a printed checklist titled: “Before You Share: Is It Kind? Is It Clear? Is It Safe?” 🛡️ Building Safe Digital Spaces 💬 Warm-Up Think about a time you posted something online—or joined a video call. What did you notice in your background? Was there anything you forgot to hide or blur? ✍🏽 Reflect & Write 1. Why is it important to protect other people’s privacy in a webinar, group chat, or online meeting? 2. What kind of personal information do people sometimes share without realizing it? List at least three examples. 3. After hearing about identity theft in Njoki’s group, what is something you will do differently online? 4. Imagine you're helping to host a virtual event or study group. What are 3 things you would do to make sure everyone feels safe and respected? 5. Njoki said, “If it feels like an announcement, make it private. If it feels like a memory, ask who needs to see it.” What does this mean to you? ✅ Before You Share: Safety Checklist 🔲 I checked my background for personal or sensitive information. 🔲 I avoided showing mail, IDs, documents, or location clues. 🔲 I protected my attendees’ names, faces, and personal info. 🔲 I turned off automatic name displays if hosting a meeting. 🔲 I asked myself: Would I want a stranger to know this? 🔲 I used a nickname or initials if sharing about a child. 🔲 I reviewed my privacy settings before sharing. 🔲 I avoided posting someone else’s image or info without asking. 🔲 I didn’t include my birthday, address, or phone number. 🔲 I paused and asked: Is this kind? Is this clear? Is this safe? 💡 Bonus Prompt Write a short message you could send in a group chat or post online to remind your community to stay safe and thoughtful online. “Hey everyone, before we go live/share, let’s remember…” 🔐 “AI in My Space: Safe, Smart, and Respectful Use”
💬 What You’re Going to Do You and your mother (guardian or mentor) will explore how to use generative AI platforms like ChatGPT or Gemini safely. These platforms are powerful tools—but just like social media, you must protect your personal information and know how to create safe, respectful online spaces. In this activity, you will: 🔹 Learn how to use generative AI in a safe way. 🔹 Recognize how PII and overly personal prompts can lead to risk. 🔹 Collaborate with family or mentors on household/group norms for AI use. 🔹 Practice asking questions and getting helpful answers. 🔹 Practice healthy AI habits for safe and productive use. 🔹 Analyze AI output critically for accuracy, bias, or red flags. 🔹 Make your own “AI Safety Poster” to remind yourself of smart online habits. 📲 Materials Needed 🔹 A device with internet access (phone, tablet, laptop) 🔹 Access to a generative AI platform (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) 🔹 Something to write with (or use a digital notepad) 🔹 Access to a platform to create a digital flyer (Canva) OR paper and craft supplies 🔹 About 45 minutes to work together 🧠 THINK: Explore and Discuss Read these tips with your mother, guardian, or mentor. Use sticky notes or a shared Google Doc to write 5–7 "Safe Prompt Rules" for your home. Examples: 👉🏽 Never share your real name, address, school, phone number, email, or usernames. 👉🏽 Use general language (“a student” instead of “me at MLK High”). 👉🏽 Don’t share stories, photos, or family details without permission. 👉🏽 Ask yourself: Would I say this to a stranger? 👉🏽 Keep advice from AI in draft form. Always talk to a real person before acting on it. 👉🏽 Double-check what AI tells you using a search engine and reliable sources. 👉🏽 Ask questions that help you learn, grow, or create something positive. 😊 Now talk together about this: 1. Why should you keep personal information private, even from a chatbot? 2. What kinds of questions feel safe to ask AI? 3. What would you do if the answer felt wrong? TRY IT: Prompt + Audit + Submit Choose an AI tool (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) and write a prompt. Before you enter it, use this checklist: 📝 Safe Prompt Checklist [ ] I did not use real names or usernames. [ ] I did not include someone else’s story. [ ] I wrote things in a general way. [ ] I used kind, respectful words. [ ] I feel safe asking this question. 💿 Examples of Safe Prompts: 🍝 Help me write a recipe for [dish] for someone who is lactose intolerant. 🎁 Give me gift ideas for a friend who likes [hobby]. 📄 Pretend to be a [job] interviewer—what are 5 questions you would ask someone applying for [scholarship or role]? 💬 Ask Yourself: Would someone be able to guess who I am from this prompt? Would I feel safe reading this if it were posted by someone else? 🥵 FACT CHECK: What Did It Say? Could This Be Harmful? 1. Read the AI’s answer aloud. 2. Analyze the response:
🔹 Bonus: Search “When ChatGPT got it wrong” or “AI bias examples” and talk about what could have been done differently. 🎨 CREATE: Your AI Safety Poster Make your own “My AI Safety Poster.” Include: 🔹 3 rules for using AI safely 🔹 2 safe types of questions to ask 🔹 1 thing you want to remember 🎨 Decorate it with drawings, colors, or photos. 📆 Save it as your phone or tablet lock screen for a week. Or print it and hang it on your refrigerator at home. 💬 REFLECT: Write or Share 📃 What surprised you most about using AI? 🤔 How did you feel reading the AI’s answers? 🌟 What new rule or habit will you use moving forward? 💖 How can you help a friend use AI safely? 🗃️ BONUS SEARCH Search online: 🔍 “What are safe ways kids can use AI?” 🔍 “How do AI platforms protect your information?” Write down 2 facts that surprised you! ✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions: Practicing Safe Behavior Online
A professional portrait of an African-American woman with meticulously styled Bantu knots, showcasing her expertise as an Education Data Security Analyst.
Education Data Security Analyst 🏫🔐 Works with schools and universities to protect student records, grades, and personal data. Ensures compliance with laws like FERPA and prevents data breaches involving student information. Community Workshop in a Church Fellowship Hall – “Digital Safety & Smart Posting” Setting: A small group of moms and daughters sit in folding chairs arranged in a circle. A sign near the front reads: "Be Seen, Not Exposed – Protecting What Matters Online." Ebony stands at the front with a digital tablet and a warm smile. There's a table with water bottles, notepads, and mini cupcakes nearby. Ebony: Thank y’all for being here. I know your Saturdays are busy, so I promise to keep it real and keep it moving. We’re here to talk about what we post, how we post, and why it matters. Ebony (holding up her tablet): Let’s start with a quick one. If I took a selfie in my kitchen right now and posted it to Instagram… what’s something in the background that could cause a problem? Mia (14): Ooo, like your address on a package or something? Ebony: Exactly. That’s detail in the background. I saw a girl post a “clean with me” video and forgot she had her school ID on the fridge. Some creep found out what school she went to. Mrs. Allen (mom of 13-year-old twins): That’s crazy! These apps are cute until somebody shows up in your real life. I tell my girls all the time: check the background like you check your teeth in the mirror--every time. (Everyone chuckles.) Ebony (laughing): Yes, Mrs. Allen! That’s going on a T-shirt. Naima (16): My friend posted a family BBQ video last summer, and her little cousin’s birth certificate was in the shot. I was like, “Girl… take that DOWN!” Ebony: Whew! Y’all are proving my point better than I could. Your home is sacred. What’s in it—who’s in it—those things are for you, not the internet. Jazlyn (12): Wait… so family pictures too? Ebony: Yes, ma’am. Even family photos can give clues. A t-shirt with your school name, the view outside your window, a trophy with your last name on it—it all adds up. Folks zoom in. Mrs. Rivera (quiet but firm): Can I say something? Last year, my niece posted a birthday photo of her new car. Her plates were showing. A week later someone tried to follow her home from the gas station. (The room goes silent.) Mrs. Rivera (voice rising): I was livid. Not at her—for not knowing. But at how fast it happened. That car picture was up for ten minutes. Ten. Ebony (gently): Thank you for sharing that. That anger? That’s real. But so is the power we have when we know better. That’s what this space is for. No shame. Just lessons. Tamara (15): So like… you shouldn’t even post your birthday? Ebony: Here’s the deal—your birthdate, your address, who you live with—those are identity markers. Companies ask you those questions for a reason. And if someone’s trying to guess your password or fake your identity? That info helps them. Mia (playfully): What if I just post “It’s my birthday!” but no year? Ebony (smiling): Smart! That’s a safer move. Celebrate without the receipts. Mrs. Allen (smirking): Okay, but what about us mamas? Sometimes we post y’all in pajamas with the house address on the mailbox. I’m guilty. Ebony (grinning): We love y’all, but yes—even parents gotta check the frame! Your love can still be private and powerful. Naima: So it’s not just about what we post—but what’s in the post? Ebony: Exactly. What you post, what’s around you, what’s in the background—it all tells a story. The question is, who are you telling it to—and do they deserve the story? Tamara (softly): I think I overshare sometimes. Not on purpose, but just… not thinking. Ebony: We’ve all done it. But you just had your “ah ha” moment. That’s how we grow. Mrs. Rivera: Can we get a checklist or something? Like “Before You Post: Did You…” Ebony: Yes, ma’am! I got y’all. We’re gonna build that together. Before we wrap, let me leave you with this: Everything you post is a piece of you. Make sure every piece is safe, strong, and sacred. Scene Closes The room fills with a hum of conversation, a few hugs, and some thoughtful silence. Ebony walks over to Mia and quietly hands her a sticky note: “You’re more powerful than your posts. Use that power wisely.” ✅ Before You Post: Did You…? 🔵 Girls: Think Before You Post
🔴 Moms: Lead by Example
🟣 Both: Be Seen, Not Exposed
🔍 Interactive Activity: “Spot the Scam & Secure the Bag”
Objective: Strengthen awareness of fraud risks and prevention strategies related to online financial transactions, PII, and digital visibility. 🧠 Overview In this session, participants will:
🧾 Materials Needed
🗂️ Part 1: PII Heat Check — “What’s in Your Feed?” (15 mins) Instructions:
In your digital notepad, write:
💻 Part 2: Scam Sleuths — “Search It to Believe It” (20 mins) Instructions: Search engines ready! As a team, complete this research challenge. Use .gov, .org, or official app websites only. Answer these prompts in your notebook:
🛠️ Part 3: Build Your Family Fraud Toolkit (20 mins) Instructions: With your partner, complete the Fraud Prevention Toolkit together. Discuss and document: ✅ Create a rule for:
💬 Reflection Prompts (To Close the Session)
✨ Optional Extension: Role-Play + Toolkit Share-Out (15 mins)
Reflect and Write: What is Personal Information and Why Does it Matter?
A stylish African-American Social Media Security Specialist with striking purple braided locks thoughtfully holds a smartphone in a modern office environment.
Social Media Security Specialist 📱🧠 Protects users’ personal information and accounts on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. Investigates phishing attacks, prevents account takeovers, and designs better privacy settings. After-school Tech Club Meeting Jazmin walks into the room smiling, her notebook in hand and her curly hair pulled into a puff. A group of about 10 girls of various backgrounds, ages 12–17, are waiting with snacks and open minds. Jazmin: Hey everyone! It’s so good to see y’all again. Before we start, raise your hand if you’ve posted something online in the last 24 hours. (Most hands go up. One girl raises both hands.) Jazmin (laughing): Okay, two hands? What were you posting? Spill it. Layla (13, playfully): A dance video and a “Get Ready With Me” from this morning. I was feelin’ myself! Jazmin: Yesss, confidence! Love that. Now tell me… did you check your background before you posted? Layla (pauses): Um… I think so? Wait—my house number might’ve been on the mailbox behind me. Jazmin (gently): That’s real. It happens. But let’s talk about why that’s not just a detail—it’s personal. It’s location information. If someone wanted to find you... they could. Destiny (14): Like those people who find where celebrities live? Jazmin: Exactly. But you're the star in your story, too. You don’t need a million followers to have someone watching. Safety starts with protecting what’s yours—like your home address, phone number, and even your email. Imani (16, raising hand): I actually had something happen last year. I was talking to someone online who seemed cool—like funny, always complimenting my outfits. But then he asked what school I went to... and I told him. (Room gets quiet.) Imani (voice shaking): Turns out, he was a grown man. Not even close to being a teen. My mom found out after he sent me a weird message about meeting up after practice. I was so embarrassed and scared. I felt dumb. Jazmin (softly): Imani, thank you for being brave. You're not dumb. You were trusting—there’s a difference. That could happen to any of us. I’m glad you're safe. (A few girls tear up. One hugs Imani. Jazmin places a hand over her heart.) Marisol (15): Wait, so... are emails a big deal too? I thought it was just spam I had to worry about. Jazmin: Good question! Emails are like keys to your digital life. If someone gets into your email, they can reset your passwords, read your personal messages, even pretend to be you. Tiana (12): That happened to my cousin! Someone hacked her email and sent weird stuff to her teacher. She almost got suspended! Jazmin: See? That’s a real consequence. Whether it’s your phone number, home address, or just chatting online--every piece of info is a puzzle piece. Don’t let strangers complete your puzzle. Jazmin (lightening the mood): Okay, let’s do a quick test. I say the info—you say “Keep it private” if we shouldn’t share it.
Jazmin: Right?! Let’s not make it easy. And look—I’m not saying never share anything. I’m saying: share smart. Ask yourself, “Would I want someone I don’t know to see this?” Imani (smiling a little): Now I ask myself: “Would Jazmin approve?” (They all laugh again, and Jazmin wipes a tear while laughing.) Jazmin: I love y’all. But even more, I want you safe. When you show up online, let it be on your terms—not someone else’s. Got it? All Girls: Got it! ✨ Personal Information & Online Safety 🧠 Quick Recap In today’s story, Jazmin met with a group of girls to talk about staying safe online. They talked about personal information, stranger danger, and real-life examples of what can happen when people share too much. ✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions
🔐 Interactive Activity: Social Media Safety Audit & Edit Challenge
Goal: Identify and edit or remove Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from images and videos shared or stored digitally. 📝 Step-by-Step Instructions 1. Team Up Pair up: Each girl works with her mother (or guardian/mentor). This is a chance to teach and learn from one another. You will need to work from your phone, tablet, or laptop. 2. Search & Audit: The Safety Scan 🔍Time: 15–20 minutes Check all the following locations for photos or videos that might include PII:
3. Decide: Delete, Edit, or Keep with Caution 🧠 With each image/video on your list, decide:
4. Edit Like a Pro: The Blur, Crop, and Cover-Up 🛠️ Now it's time to edit those images/videos—this is the fun, hands-on part! Use your phone’s built-in editor, Instagram story tools, or free apps like:
5. Bonus Round: Practice with Sample Pics 📸 If you didn’t find any PII in your personal content, select “practice photos” to test your editing skills. 6. Reflect & Share: Lessons Learned 💬 Answer these questions together in a digital journal, notepad, or worksheet:
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