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 were quietly dealing with the same pain and shame, often without support.  

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TEI was created to change that. It exists to support those who are too often overlooked, offering real tools, real stories, and a sense of solidarity for anyone navigating an eating disorder or body dysmorphia. This is a space for protection, healing, and action.