Unstoppable: Angela’s Path to Empowerment
Born and raised in Detroit, Angela was adopted from foster care at age three. Her early years were marked by instability, frequent moves, and challenges that forced her to grow up quickly. Despite these hardships, Angela remained focused on building a better future and graduated from high school in 2020 with a full scholarship to Wayne State University, where she began studying nursing.
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, Angela’s perspective began to shift. She realized that nursing might not be the path for her. In 2021, her life changed dramatically when her adoptive mother suffered a sudden stroke and passed away. Feeling more alone than ever, Angela had to pause her education and focus on meeting her basic needs. She faced periods of homelessness and uncertainty, but she never gave up on her dreams.
In search of a career that would offer growth and stability, Angela explored various jobs in different locations before discovering the Job Corps program in Flint. There, she earned a Level 1 Carpentry certification, gaining hands-on skills and a renewed sense of confidence. Though challenges remained, Angela stayed determined to move forward and focused on building a stable life, securing her own place, and buying her first car.
Her determination to pursue job readiness and employment opportunities led to an unexpected breakthrough. A mistaken phone call from GST Michigan Works!, originally intended for another youth, ended up reaching Angela instead. After clarifying the mix-up, she immediately expressed her interest by saying, “If it has anything to do with work, I’m interested.”
That moment opened the door to new possibilities. After meeting with a specialist, Angela was enrolled in the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and the Young Professionals program. She was selected as one of the 2025 Summer Young Professionals and quickly distinguished herself in the first two weeks through her leadership, maturity, and drive during workforce preparation.
Recognizing her potential, she was placed in a newly opened position and began gaining valuable hands-on experience through a paid work opportunity with Action Management, where she provided administrative support.
Angela enjoyed the work so much that she shifted her focus at Job Corps from Carpentry to Office Administration. She is now being considered for a permanent full-time position.
Through GST Michigan Works!, Angela also received personalized support, including professional attire, to help her confidently enter the workforce. Her administrative skills continue to grow, and full-time employment is within reach.
Today, Angela is pursuing a certification in Office Administration through Job Corps and a degree in Holistic Health at Mott Community College. From foster care and homelessness to steady employment and higher education, Angela’s journey is a powerful example of never giving up, embracing opportunity, and growth.
Her story continues to inspire other young people who face adversity, showing that no matter what the obstacles, it is possible to reclaim your future and create lasting change.