In Loving Memory of Charla Stegall-Young: A Trailblazer, Advocate, and Beacon of Empowerment for Women Everywhere

With deep sorrow and profound grief, we announce the passing of Charla Stegall-Young, a vibrant beacon of empowerment, sisterhood, and grace. Charla tragically and suddenly left this world, leaving behind a legacy that will live far beyond her years. A beloved daughter of Louisville and a cherished soul in Houston, she was known by many as a visionary leader, motivator, and advocate for women’s self-love and global unity. She was also known by all, simply and lovingly, as “Charla.” Her passing marks the loss of an extraordinary woman whose impact will resonate in the hearts of those who knew her, and even those who never had the privilege of meeting her.

Charla Stegall-Young’s journey through life was a reflection of unwavering commitment to her beliefs and a passion for creating a positive change in the world. As the Founder and CEO of Power to Exhale, an organization dedicated to empowering women by providing them with resources to improve their mental health, emotional well-being, and personal growth, Charla touched countless lives. Her mission was clear: to create a space where women from all walks of life could find solace, strength, and support, all while fostering a sense of community and connection.

Throughout her career, Charla Stegall-Young became a role model for many, especially for those who faced adversity and sought to reclaim their personal power. Charla, with her infectious optimism and tireless drive, worked to inspire women to embrace their true selves, overcome obstacles, and rise above the challenges life threw at them. As a motivational speaker, mentor, and advocate for mental health, Charla was instrumental in breaking down the barriers of stigma surrounding emotional struggles and encouraging women to prioritize their well-being.

The Visionary Leader Who Sparked Change

Charla’s life was one of service to others. Her deep-rooted belief in the power of women to lift one another up inspired her to found Power to Exhale. This organization became more than just a platform for mental health resources—it became a lifeline for women seeking support in their journeys of healing and personal growth. Through workshops, retreats, and one-on-one coaching, Charla offered a safe space for women to explore their mental health, develop coping strategies, and ultimately find strength within themselves.

Her ability to connect with women from diverse backgrounds and experiences was one of Charla’s most remarkable qualities. Whether through a heartfelt conversation or a candid post on social media, Charla’s authenticity and vulnerability allowed her to build deep, trusting relationships with those around her. She was able to see the potential in others and encouraged them to believe in themselves even when they could not.

Charla Stegall-Young’s reach extended far beyond the confines of her immediate community. As a public figure, she became a global inspiration to women everywhere. Her work with Power to Exhale empowered women not only in the United States but around the world. Through virtual programs and collaborations with international organizations, Charla helped spread a message of hope, resilience, and unity.

Her advocacy for women’s self-love went hand in hand with her focus on mental health and emotional well-being. Charla encouraged women to prioritize their own needs, to nurture their minds and bodies, and to break free from the societal pressures that often led them to put others before themselves. Her message was clear: self-love was not selfish; it was necessary for women to thrive.

The Heart and Soul of Louisville and Houston

Charla’s roots were deeply planted in Louisville, Kentucky, a city that she cherished and proudly called home. Born and raised in Louisville, Charla carried the values of her community with her throughout her life. She was a proud daughter of the city, always eager to give back and support the initiatives that made Louisville a vibrant and welcoming place.

Her ties to Houston, where she lived and worked for many years, were just as strong. It was in Houston that Charla’s work with Power to Exhale truly flourished, and where she touched the lives of many individuals who will never forget the impact she made. She was a leader, a friend, a confidante, and an advocate, and her absence will undoubtedly be felt in both cities for years to come.

The Woman Who Inspired Sisterhood and Unity

In addition to her role as a leader and advocate, Charla Stegall-Young was also a beloved sister, daughter, and friend. Her capacity for love and kindness was boundless, and she made it her mission to create strong, lasting bonds of sisterhood among the women she met. Charla believed that when women supported one another, there was no limit to what they could accomplish. She lived by the philosophy that empowered women empower the world, and she embodied this belief in every interaction she had.

Her legacy will live on through the countless women whose lives she touched—those who were inspired by her example to take charge of their own lives, to seek healing, and to step into their power. Charla’s love for women was unconditional, and her belief in their strength was unwavering. She taught those around her the importance of self-care, self-compassion, and community, and she will be remembered as a fierce advocate for the empowerment of women everywhere.

Charla’s Impact on Mental Health Advocacy

One of Charla’s greatest contributions to society was her work as a mental health advocate. Mental health, particularly within the context of women’s lives, was a cause that Charla held close to her heart. She understood the unique pressures that women faced in their personal, professional, and social lives, and she knew that mental health was often the silent struggle that went unnoticed.

Through Power to Exhale, Charla created programs that offered support for women dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. She worked tirelessly to provide tools and resources for women to navigate their mental health challenges and find paths to healing. She was a firm believer in the power of open conversation about mental health, and she dedicated herself to erasing the stigma surrounding it.

Charla’s advocacy extended beyond her own organization; she used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health care for women of all backgrounds. She frequently spoke at conferences, led discussions, and shared her personal story in an effort to normalize the conversation about mental health. For Charla, the journey toward healing was not only an individual pursuit but a collective one, one in which women came together to support each other and share their experiences.

A Legacy That Will Never Fade

Though Charla Stegall-Young’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy will endure for generations to come. The work she did through Power to Exhale has already touched the lives of thousands of women, and her vision for a world where women are empowered to live authentically, embrace their self-worth, and support each other will continue to inspire and guide future generations.

Charla’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but it also leaves a profound impact on the world. She was a woman of immense grace, power, and purpose, and she lived her life with an open heart and a deep desire to make the world a better place. Charla’s influence will be felt for years to come, as the women she helped will carry forward her message of empowerment, self-love, and unity.

Final Words: A Call to Honor Charla’s Memory

In honoring Charla Stegall-Young’s memory, we are reminded of the importance of lifting each other up, of investing in our mental health, and of creating a community where women can thrive. Charla’s life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and self-empowerment. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched, in the conversations she sparked, and in the hearts of the women who will continue to carry her torch.

Though Charla is no longer with us physically, her spirit will live on in all that she has created and in the women whose lives she forever changed. Her work, her words, and her love will continue to guide us as we move forward, and we can honor her memory by continuing to live in a way that reflects her unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, self-care, and community.

Rest in power, Charla Stegall-Young. Your light will never fade.