When we picture the future of our students, we see more than diplomas and careers. We see confident adults who are thriving in life, lifting others up, and becoming leaders in their communities. This year, that vision came to life in a remarkable way: two of our alumni, Amaya Davis (pictured right) and Chelly Ali-Watkins (pictured left), returned to our program, not as students, but as staff members.
Both Amaya and Chelly entered our Workforce Prep Mentoring Program in 10th grade, guided by volunteer Career Mentors who helped them explore careers, set goals, and build the confidence to pursue their dreams. They stuck with the program through all seven years, moving from our Years 1-3 (10th through 12th grade) High School Program into our Years 4-7 Continuing Education Program. Along the way, they learned lessons about perseverance, planning, and the power of surrounding yourself with support – lessons that carried them into successful young adulthood.
Amaya’s Path
A graduate of Warren Mott High School and Macomb Community College, Amaya has built nearly two years of professional experience in education and community-based work. She is now studying communications at Wayne State University and credits her mentors, Audrey Takacs of Macomb Community College, Kelly Savela of Publicis, and Ashley Mabbitt of McLaren Health Plan, for helping her chart her path.
Returning to Winning Futures feels personal for Amaya: “It feels amazing to return to the place that poured so much into me. I get to help students the way my mentors once helped me.”
Chelly’s Path
Chelly graduated from Harper Woods High School before serving five years in the National Guard and earning her bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University. She built a career in customer service, became an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and credits her mentors, Gail Miciuda of Thermoflex Corporation and Taylor Carter Willbanks of ExcelinEd, with helping her find her footing.
For Chelly, joining our staff is about more than a job. It’s about continuing a legacy. She says it best with words from Denzel Washington: “At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”
Full Circle
Today, as Program Assistants, Amaya and Chelly play a vital role in making mentoring sessions run smoothly and ensuring students get the same kind of encouragement and guidance they once received. Their presence is proof that the impact of mentorship doesn’t just stop when a student graduates, it multiplies.
Together, Amaya and Chelly embody the heart of our mission. They are not only living examples of what’s possible when students have mentors and a plan, they’re now passing those lessons forward, empowering tomorrow’s workforce and strengthening our community for years to come.