In a world that often pressures young people to conform, We Rock Charlotte offers something revolutionary: a space where every youth is encouraged to be unapologetically themselves.

Formerly known as Girls Rock Charlotte, the organization changed its name to reflect the evolving identities of the young people it serves. We Rock Charlotte welcomes all youth, creating a safe and inclusive space for self-expression, community and creativity.

Each summer, campers ages 8–17 come together to explore their passions through immersive, weeklong music camps. Whether it’s picking up a guitar for the first time, writing an original song with new friends or filming a short movie with guidance from leaders in media, the experience is equal parts empowering and transformative.

But We Rock Charlotte is about more than just the music.

Where Music Meets Mission

Tamar Anderson, We Rock Charlotte Teen Camp participant and volunteer. LunahZon Photography – www.lunahzon.com

At the heart of the program is a unique blend of music and film education, paired with leadership and social justice workshops that encourage campers to speak up — not just with instruments and microphones, but with confidence and compassion.

“At We Rock Charlotte, we believe that when young people are provided with a safe space to focus on creativity and self-expression, they begin to see their potential for their future. We’ve built a community where all youth feel seen, supported and celebrated” said Brit Swider, executive director of We Rock Charlotte.

Workshops tackle topics like media literacy, gender equity and leadership, all taught by Charlotte-based musicians, artists and professionals who reflect the diverse identities of the campers they mentor.

Norah White, We Rock Charlotte Teen Camp Participant. LunahZon Photography – www.lunahzon.com

Sixteen-year-old Tamar Anderson, a longtime camper turned volunteer, said We Rock helped her feel seen in ways that many traditional spaces hadn’t.

“I’m not used to meeting people I like because I often get bullied. That’s not the case at We Rock. Being here with others makes me feel special and safe,” she shared. “Now that I’m older and can volunteer, it’s cool to help the younger kids have the positive experience I did as a child coming to We Rock.”

For Norah White, 15, music became a gateway to confidence and connection. After discovering We Rock three years ago, she found a community that welcomed her love of music — and her dreams of making change.

“I hope to go into entertainment law and represent people who may not be treated well in the industry,” Norah said. “We Rock helped me see how music builds bonds and creates community.”

A Community for All Ages

The organization’s impact extends beyond youth. Adults also find belonging and expression through programs like Femmes and Thems, where participants form bands, write songs and perform live in a supportive environment that champions authenticity.

That’s how Eva Romanczukiewicz found We Rock Charlotte. Inspired by punk icon Kathleen Hanna and the riot grrrl movement, Eva joined Femmes and Thems and later became a volunteer at summer camp.

“Music has always been part of who I am,” Eva said. “It’s a universal connector that brings people together across cultures and communities. We Rock Charlotte is exactly what I was searching for — a local space where people can experience that connection, share life experiences and feel safe expressing themselves through the power of music.”

Eva values the deep connections built through camp, especially in an increasingly digital world. “When kids can unplug and focus on building relationships and learning together — layers start to come off. You see them open up, support one another and shine.”

Creating Ripples of Change

Since its founding in 2014, We Rock Charlotte has empowered hundreds of young people through camp and community workshops. Programs like AMPLIFY! extend that impact year-round with free opportunities for youth to stay connected and continue developing their voice.

And while the guitars are tuned and the music is flowing, the real magic lies in the moments of self-discovery and solidarity. Campers leave not only with songs and films, but with confidence, friendships and the knowledge that their voice matters.

To sustain and grow this work, We Rock Charlotte depends on community support. Donations help fund scholarships, expand access to programs and ensure that all youth—no matter their identity or background — can find a place where they truly belong.

As Eva put it: “There’s space for everyone here. It’s okay to be whoever you want to be—respectfully, joyfully and loudly.”

Learn more or support their work at werockcharlotte.org.