The Inspiration Behind GLR

Kimberly Nicole was born in Zephyrhills, FL, and raised in Trilby, FL. Growing up, she never felt like the first choice. She wasn’t considered popular or “the cool kid,” and often learned to mask her insecurities by pretending she had it all together, faking confidence until she could survive the moment.

At an early age, Kimberly immersed herself in education, believing it was the one thing she was truly good at. Over time, she earned multiple degrees. While those accomplishments reflected her discipline and determination, they did not bring healing. Instead, they became a way to conceal the internal wounds she carried.

For a long time, she struggled to fully embrace her gifts and talents. She identified deeply with the “Bag Lady” described in Erykah Badu’s song, smiling outwardly while carrying the heavy weight of low self-esteem, the need for validation, and a persistent belief that she was never good enough. On the outside, she appeared strong and capable; internally, she was still searching for her worth.

A significant turning point in Kimberly’s life came through her military service. During this time, she experienced true camaraderie, unity, and belonging. Serving alongside people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life exposed her to perspectives far beyond her own and reshaped how she understood identity, strength, and teamwork. The bonds formed through shared purpose and mutual respect helped her recognize the power of community and the importance of standing together, regardless of differences.

Healing did not come quickly. It required prayer, counseling, and countless self-reflective conversations.

Through that process, Kimberly came to understand that she is a force to be reckoned with, not because of material achievements, titles, or accolades, but because of the morals, values, discipline, self-respect, and self-love she developed along the way.

Her life experiences led her to a quote that now governs her way of living:

 “Because I respect myself, I demand respect from others, and because I love myself, I can love others.”    —Kimberly Nicole

Rather than allowing her story to hinder her, Kimberly chose to let it motivate her. The Girls Locker Room, Inc. (GLR) is her way of giving back, creating a space rooted in connection, empowerment, and growth, where women are encouraged to find their voice, embrace their worth, and turn their trials into triumphs.