Zaria’s High School Diploma Journey

At just 17 years old, Zaria embodies the courage and determination that drives Safer Foundation’s mission forward every day. As part of Safer Foundation’s Youth Empowerment Program Class of 2025, Zaria proudly received her High School Equivalency Diploma, a milestone she once feared might never happen.

Before finding Safer Foundation, Zaria’s life felt like an uphill battle. Struggling with personal challenges and lacking steady support, she found it difficult to stay focused in school. “It was hard. I felt like I was taking two steps forward and a hundred steps back. I dropped out and only went to school once or twice a week, and even then, I would leave early. I was failing everything.”

During this struggle, Zaria’s father encouraged her to look into the Youth Empowerment Program. It turned out to be the turning point she needed. “I knew I wanted to finish high school,” she says. “I liked that the program was self-paced and I wouldn’t have to deal with so many people at once. It felt like a fresh start.”

Walking through the doors at Safer Foundation wasn’t easy at first. Zaria describes being nervous and reserved, hesitant to open up. But slowly, thanks to supportive staff like Miss Kay and Mr. James and the friendships she built, Zaria began to find her confidence. “Everyone there is very welcoming, even the people at the front desk.”

Beyond academics, Zaria says the program’s biggest gift was teaching her life skills she hadn’t learned elsewhere, such as job readiness, real-world advice, and confidence-building guidance that prepared her for life beyond the classroom.

When asked how it felt to earn her diploma, her answer was simple but powerful: “It felt unreal. Like I really did it.”

Zaria is already focused on what comes next. She plans to attend college online for childhood education and dreams of working as a counselor for children someday. Her passion for kids shines through in her current role helping her grandmother run an after-school program through her church.

Her advice to others in similar situations is straightforward and heartfelt: “Don’t give up. Keep pushing because we all go through hard times, but you just have to keep going.”

Investing in Journeys Like Zaria’s

Stories like Zaria’s are possible because of the supporters, donors, and partners who believe that every young person deserves a second chance and the tools to build a brighter future. Together, we transform barriers into opportunities and nurture potential into lasting success. Thank you for standing with Zaria and hundreds of youth like her. If you would like to help more youth reach their goals, please consider making a gift to Safer Foundation today: Donate Now | Safer Foundation.

If you or someone you know is ready to earn a diploma and build a brighter future, Safer Foundation’s Youth Empowerment Program is here to help. Enroll today at safereturn.org.