Hello everyone, my name is Tanya Marie Lee, and I'm the founder of A Room of Your Own Book Club. You know the book club that had a one-on-one meeting with former First Lady Michelle Obama.

For the past few years, this book club has been my passion project—a place where at-risk teen girls in our community can find a safe space to grow, connect, and discover their voices through literature. I started this from the heart, pouring all my time and energy into creating a difference, not for a paycheque, but for the pure joy of seeing these at-risk teen girls thrive.

My time with the book club has taught me so much, and it's shown me that my purpose is to continue working for community change. Now, I have an incredible opportunity to take that work to the next level. I have been accepted into Humber Polytechnic's Graduate Writing Certificate Program, and I'm scheduled to begin in January 2026. This program will equip me with the professional skills I need to expand my impact, allowing me to create even more meaningful programs and initiatives for young people.

This isn't just about me going back to school. It's about continuing the mission that started with A Room of Your Own Book Club. The skills I'll gain will allow me to build a more sustainable and impactful future for the at-risk teen girls who need it most.

Why I Need Your Help

Running the book club has been a labour of love, and as a result, I haven't been able to save enough to cover the full cost of tuition and living expenses while I'm a student. I am committed to this new path, and I'm ready to work hard to get there, but I can't do it alone.

Your donation, no matter the size, will help cover my tuition, books, and other essential costs. It will allow me to focus on my studies and my future work without the stress of financial barriers.

Here's a breakdown of what your donation would support:

Tuition and Fees: The primary cost of the program.

Books and Supplies: The materials needed to succeed in my courses.

Living Expenses: Helping with rent, groceries, and transportation so I can fully commit to my studies.

My Heart is in This Work

A Room of Your Own Book Club has been a testament to what passion can create. With your support, I can build on that foundation and turn my passion into a professional career dedicated to helping others. Going back to school is the next step in this journey, and it's a step I'm taking for all the at-risk girls who are counting on someone to champion their lives and their stories.

Thank you for believing in me and in the power of community. Your generosity will help me not only achieve my own dream but also continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people.

With love and gratitude,

Tanya Marie Lee