Kiarra Lucas is a current college student pursuing a bachelor of social work and communications focusing on public relations. She is self-motivated with a passion for helping underserved youth and those previously incarcerated receive support and high-quality opportunities. At the age of 18, she is equipped with diverse experiences in activism ranging from governmental policy-making to speaking at protests to doing hands-on work in local communities. Kiarra is currently in search of job opportunities where she can grow her communication skills. Kiarra's future goal is to create an all-inclusive advertisement and marketing firm that hires previously incarcerated youth and adults.  

Carlos Thorpe graduated from Ballou Stay Opportunity School. Adaptable ambition person. Looking to get an LLC for landscaping. Accepted to HBCU Virginia Union University, Year of 2020. Unfortunately I wasn't able to attend. In the next 5 years looking to have a 6 figure flexible job being a software developer. Following year  joined an organization called Peer Forward, using computer skills to be the role as a technician for the group. Using Microsoft Office for workshop meetings, Docs to take notes, and plans, Sheets to use for time management, and Slides for group presentations. Joined Hope Project IT program to start off in the Networking field, where he would then learn skills of routing, computer networking, computer configuration. Switching interest he went into developing and programming. Searching for software programs came across Codecademy, which had a free startup, where he learned how to use Java. Wanting to learn more, began the course and obtained skills such as Javascript, Data Analysis, HyperText Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS).  An inspiring leader and motivated team player currently doing internships for financial needs to help with college funds planning to attend college and major in computer science engineering. Can apply skills and further develop abilities in the Software developing business. Enjoys programming, traveling, and playing video games.

My name is Chris Spriggs. I currently work at Amazon in the warehouse department. I have my own Clothing Brand (Fatslime Clothing). I'm from Washington DC Ne born and raised. I attended Friendship Tech Prep I'm a class of 2021 graduate. My personal and professional goal is to buy my first apartment/house, finding a career that I love, owning a store and I would love to acquire new skills to be successful. Achievements I accomplished are graduating, getting honor roll, having a job, maintaining a business. A couple hobbies I have are listening to music, making money, going to outings, and just having fun.

As an entrepreneur, traveler, leader and one of great character, creation and development drives my purpose in life. My main goal is to pursue my passions involving, creating and innovating things that will help to lay the foundation for viable health and wellness in minority communities. On my journey of self development I aim to gain tangible skills I can use to give back to the earth and further my career in cultivating holistic remedies and wellness. In 3-5 years, I see myself owning at least 5 acres of land. I’ll use my land to produce and grow fruits, veggies and herbs with medicinal properties to help serve as an ethical and sustainable source for local markets and community. In the years to come, I aim to provide sanctuary, food and a space for natural healing for those in need. Overall I enjoy nature, authenticity, fashion and the luxury of choosing my own lifestyle.

Quinnyetta is a Washintonian native who loves the color purple, not talking about the movie, and being a poet. Her background consists of knowledge of Media, Public/Customer services and being an advocate for financial and political injustice. She would love to get into the Fashion and Management industries. Quinnyetta’s mission in life is to find herself in a position that allows the word, “artist” to be comfortable with self expression. Through her connections and possible luck, she would also achieve at least one form of stability given the opportunity. Within this, she is also tasked with healing herself in the process to help others in the same or similar position. She’s also known to admit her faults and fix them with relative ease, while also realizing ways to prevent mishaps as well. Through this skill, she would be able to identify the problem and conquer it for the soul purpose of the task being completed.

Hello everyone, 

My name is Thu Ta. I moved to the US fine years ago. I live in Washington West Coast. It is my first time joining SYEP and BTB foundation. The program reminds me a lot of the Freedom School program during my high school years. The Freedom program provided space for learning and sharing during summertime. I took some nursing courses for the past two years. I do enjoy learning, but I feel more connected with finance recently. I'm hoping the program inspires me to pursue a career in finance. 

Balkhais, a rising sophomore at the University of Washington, is a determined individual with a unique skill set and a passion for making a difference. Having gained valuable experience working multiple jobs simultaneously, she possesses a strong work ethic and excellent time management skills. She is currently a brand ambassador with ThunderChild. Balkhais's interest in technology opportunities, combined with her language interpretation abilities, allows her to bridge communication gaps in various settings. However, what truly sets her apart is her dedication and deep-rooted desire to contribute to society. She is interested in travel and currently holds many hobbies. Balkhais is eagerly seeks opportunities to utilize her skills for the betterment of others.

Salim Kaba is a student at Grand Canyon University. He is driven and ambitious individual currently studying Finance with a passion for entrepreneurship. With a keen interest in creating his own business, Salim aspires to increase his financial knowledge and hope to help others bring their business ideas to life. Alongside his academic pursuits, Salim is a passionate baseball player, demonstrating his dedication, teamwork, and leadership skills on and off the field.  Salim has a strong passion for the sports industry and hopes to use his experience in finances to become a sports manager or agent. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine desire to make a positive impact, Salim aims to contribute to the business world and empower others through his ventures. 

Donyea Williams graduated from friendship collegiate academy in the top 10 of her class in 2016. Donyea graduated from the Virginia State University in 2021 , earning a bachelors in health physical education and recreation. While also being a first generation graduate with cumlaude honors.   Donyea plans to attend school for her masters in Athletic ttraining and take the BOC exam to get licensed. The passion Donyea has for sports and helping others has allowed her opportunities to volunteer at her former high school assisting the head athletic trainer in daily task that involve all sports . Daily tasks range from sanitizing , inventory , paperwork , as well as taping and assisting during practices. While taking on all these tasks and responsibilities Donyea is a Founder and Ceo of Rootd Aura a multifaceted business that includes all of her creative and unique hair styles , paintings , and customized clothes / shoes .