Sharing the Power of Modesty at Har Torah Yeshiva

I had the incredible honor of speaking at Yeshiva Har Torah on Saturday night, December 6th, during their Mother–Daughter Bat Mitzvah Workshop celebrating the Bat Mitzvah year of the 6th-grade girls. The evening brought together students, their mothers, and educators to explore a powerful theme: the three merits through which the Jewish people were zoche to leave Mitzrayim—preserving their Jewish names, their Lashon Hakodesh, and their Jewish dress.

I led the final rotation, which focused on modest dress, and shared my journey from growing up Italian Catholic to discovering my spiritual path in Judaism, and how embracing modest clothing became such an important part of my life.

From Home Economics to a Life of Design

I started telling the girls about my first experience with creating something my own way—it all began in 6th grade Home Economics class. My teacher, Mrs. Sauer, assigned a sewing project. When I saw that we were making boxer shorts, my first thought was, “Sewing? Like with a needle? What if I pinch myself?” I knew immediately it wasn’t for me. But rather than follow the crowd, I decided to do something different: I made a dress.

I picked the loudest, most colorful fabric I could find and added a black feather boa to the hem. It was unique, bold, and fully mine. To my surprise, I fell in love with sewing and realized I had a talent for design. From that moment on, I pursued fashion with everything I had—making patterns in my Gram’s basement, designing costumes in high school, and eventually studying fashion at Pratt Institute.

My career took me through some incredible opportunities—interning at Elle Magazine, working with designers like Cynthia Rowley and Yigal Azrouel, and eventually designing for major brands like Converse, Champion, and Fila. But even with all that success, I still felt there was a part of me missing.

Finding Modesty and Purpose

After my Orthodox conversion and starting a family, I wanted a career that aligned with my faith and values. I worked in Shabbat-observant companies, which was wonderful—but after my third child, I realized I wanted more: more time with my family, more creativity, more purpose. Then, one Wednesday in June, I was let go from my job.

It felt like the perfect push. I realized I had a calling to design for my community. I saw women around me working out in activewear that was uncomfortable and not modest, and I knew I could create something better: lightweight, sleek, stylish, modest, and made in America.

That’s how Transcendent Active was born. At first, I questioned whether I, someone who wasn’t always “that” modest, could create a modest activewear brand. But just like in Home Ec, I made it mine. I started wearing my first skirt designs everywhere—yoga, runs, errands—and realized they were not only comfortable, they made me feel confident and empowered.

Inspiration Through Modesty

At Har Torah, I shared this journey with the girls, emphasizing that modesty isn’t about rules—it’s about intention, confidence, and self-expression. I wanted them to know that they have the power to take what they’re learning, what’s required of them, and make it theirs—just like I did with my dress in 6th grade, and later with Transcendent Active.

I told them: “I’m not here to be the tznius police. I’m here to be your tznius cheerleader. When you are inspired, magic happens. Take what you learn, make it yours, and lead with intention. Inspiration will follow like a shadow.”

Empowering Others Through Design and Speaking

Sharing my story at Har Torah reminded me why I love inspirational speaking, especially to young girls. I want to encourage them to find confidence in their choices, explore modesty in a way that feels empowering, and realize that their creativity and individuality matter.

I’m thrilled to announce that I am now available for 2026 speaking engagements. Whether it’s a school, youth group, or community event, I want to inspire the next generation of girls to embrace modesty, confidence, and purpose—just as I did.

Final Thoughts

Modesty has been a transformative part of my life, giving me confidence, clarity, and a sense of purpose. Transcendent Active is more than a brand—it’s a way to empower women to move, live, and express themselves intentionally. And sharing this journey with the students at Har Torah reminded me that the next generation is ready to take modesty, creativity, and inspiration into their own hands.

I’m excited to continue speaking, teaching, and creating, and to help young women see that their choices—big or small—can inspire greatness in themselves and those around them.