The EmpowerED Initiative was founded by Sarah Xu, a dancer who began struggling with body image in middle school. Growing up in a competitive and appearance-focused environment, she developed disordered eating habits that went unnoticed for years. Later, through social media, Sarah realized how widespread these experiences were; how many people—often athletes—were quietly dealing with the same pain and shame, often without support.  

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EmpowerED was created to change that. It exists to support those who are too often overlooked, offering tools and stories for people who may be undergoing eating disorders or body image issues—especially young student athletes just like Sarah.