Girls on the Rise is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Rometha Gilmore, a lifelong resident of Ocala, Florida. Rometha’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Raised and educated through the Marion County Public School System, she faced the challenges of being a teen mother, giving birth to her first child at 15 and her second before graduating high school. Despite these obstacles, she refused to let her circumstances define her future.

Rometha began her higher education journey at Central Florida Community College, initially pursuing a nursing degree. However, after encountering additional challenges, she shifted her focus to education, a field that allowed her to balance her career aspirations with her responsibilities as a mother. Rometha earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and later achieved a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

With over 20 years of experience as an educator, dean, and assistant principal, Rometha developed a passion for creating meaningful change in her community. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by minority girls—particularly in terms of discipline disparities and negative societal perceptions—she felt a calling to take a proactive approach in addressing these issues.

Driven by her vision and supported by prayer, family, mentors, and a close confidant, Rometha founded Girls on the Rise. This organization seeks to empower young girls in Marion County through mentorship, education, and community engagement. To fully commit to this mission, Rometha made the courageous decision to resign from her position with the Marion County School System.

Girls on the Rise reflects Rometha’s unwavering belief in the power of education, mentorship, and advocacy to transform lives. Through her work, she continues to inspire young girls to rise above challenges and achieve their full potential.