Mary Ivy Smith-Mensah
Lorton,VA
Summary
Driven and innovative student leader with a passion for entrepreneurship, marketing, communications, and community impact.
With a background in business, marketing, and creative leadership, I have successfully founded and led student organizations, developed branding strategies, and contributed to research initiatives. My experience spans public speaking, content creation, event organization, and social advocacy, allowing me to bring a unique perspective to every opportunity.
I thrive in collaborative environments where I can combine strategic thinking with creativity to solve problems and drive meaningful change. Through leadership roles in The Innovative Fashion Magazine Club, DECA, and Homeless Outreach Club, I have demonstrated my ability to organize large scale initiatives, lead teams, and engage diverse audiences.
With strong skills in brand storytelling, research, and leadership, I am eager to apply my knowledge in environments that harbor growth, diversity, and innovation. Whether it’s creating businesses, elevating underrepresented voices, or creating impactful projects, I am committed to making a lasting difference.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
President, Homeless Outreach Club
South County High School
Lorton, VA
08.2024 - Current
- Led over 70+ members in volunteer initiatives and fundraisers.
- Raised $400+ for local charities to support underprivileged communities.
- Organized donation drives, creating care packages for those in need.
- Featured in South County School News.
Founder & President, Fashion Magazine Club
South County High School
Lorton, Virginia
08.2023 - Current
- Created the school's first ever fashion magazine
- Organized photoshoots, designed layouts, and provided a platform for students to express creativity
- Held regular meetings to mentor members on creativity and collaboration
Research Assistant, VCU
Vivian Dzokoto
Richmond, Virginia
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Worked under a psychology professor, contributing to linguistic research exploring human cognition
- Analyzed data and assisted with detailed research projects.
- Gained firsthand insight into academic research and its applications.
Foggy Bottom Homeless Shelter Volunteer
Foggy Bottom
, DC
06.2021 - Current
- Volunteered 12 hours/week during summers, 3 hours on weekends
- Created care packages, led donation drives, and supported community members during holidays
- 100+ hours dedicated to supporting underprivileged communities
- Community Service Recognition
Varsity Track Team Member
South County High School
Lorton, Virginia
11.2021 - 12.2023
- Dedicated 4-5 days per week to practice and competitions.
- Competed in sprints; participated in districts and regionals.
- Awarded participation recognition for excellence in athletics.
Student Ambassador
South County High School
Lorton, VA
04.2024 - Current
- Guided new students around South County High School, helping them acclimate and feel welcomed.
- Represented the school as a friendly and informative leader during events.
Black Student Alliance Member and Advocate
South County High School
Lorton, Virginia
08.2021 - Current
- Actively participated in discussions, initiatives, and events to uplift Black students.
- Assisted in creating a safe space for black cultural exchange and advocacy.
African Student Alliance Member and Advocate
South County High School
Lorton, Virginia
08.2021 - Current
- Helped coordinate cultural performances and events, including International Night.
- Gained deeper insight into African culture and heritage through community led initiatives.
DECA Member
South County High School
Lorton, VA, VA
08.2021 - Current
- Competed in the Virtual Business DECA Challenge, placing in the Top 3 in Virginia during sophomore year
- Developed skills in marketing, communication, and leadership.
Television News Anchor
South County High School
Lorton, VA
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Served as an anchor for the school's televised news program.
- Delivered announcements and updates to the school community.
- Strengthened public speaking, writing, and broadcasting skills
Education
High School Diploma -
South County High School
Lorton, VA06-2025
Skills
- Leadership & Initiative : Successfully led school organizations, managed fundraising efforts, and initiated impactful projects
- Public Speaking & Presentation : Delivered school news as a Television News Anchor and presented at club events
- Marketing & Branding : Developed creative strategies in DECA, contributed to the Innovative Fashion Magazine Club, and explored digital branding in marketing classes
- Entrepreneurial Mindset : Passion for business development, innovation, and community driven initiatives
- Research & Analytical Thinking : Conducted linguistic research as a VCU Research Intern, analyzing data and academic materials
- Content Creation & Writing : Managed fashion magazine production, collaborated on storytelling projects, and developed engaging content
- Community Engagement & Advocacy : Led outreach initiatives, volunteered for social causes, and created spaces for student representation
Languages
French
Professional
Certification
Accomplishments
- Honor Roll : Recognized for academic excellence (9th Grade)
- DECA : Top 3 in Virginia, Virtual Business DECA Challenge : Placed in the top 3 statewide for virtual business competition (10th Grade)
- Community Service Recognition : Acknowledged for work at Foggy Bottom for supporting underprivileged communities School News Feature
- Leadership: Featured in South County High School News for leadership in the Homeless Outreach Club and fundraising efforts during presidency
- District & Regional Track Recognition : Competed in districts and regionals as a Varsity Track Member
- Fashion Magazine Leadership Recognition : Successfully launched and led the school first Innovative Fashion Magazine
Timeline
President, Homeless Outreach Club
South County High School
08.2024 - Current
Research Assistant, VCU
Vivian Dzokoto
06.2024 - 08.2024
Student Ambassador
South County High School
04.2024 - Current
Founder & President, Fashion Magazine Club
South County High School
08.2023 - Current
Television News Anchor
South County High School
08.2022 - 06.2023
Varsity Track Team Member
South County High School
11.2021 - 12.2023
Black Student Alliance Member and Advocate
South County High School
08.2021 - Current
African Student Alliance Member and Advocate
South County High School
08.2021 - Current
DECA Member
South County High School
08.2021 - Current
Foggy Bottom Homeless Shelter Volunteer
Foggy Bottom
06.2021 - Current
High School Diploma -
South County High School