Ayesha’s Story of Success

 I would like to start by saying “Thank you” to everyone who believed in SEED. When I think back on my time at SEED as the 20th anniversary of my graduation approaches, I feel that the mission is still holding true. It made a huge difference in where my life ended up, in the career I chose, and in the decisions that I make as a parent to my   two daughters. My SEED diploma is on the wall of my office—it is my forever school. 

I first learned about SEED when Mr. Vinnakota [co-founder of The SEED Foundation] came to my school and gave a speech. I was fascinated by the opportunity. I was a good student, and I thought I could get more out of my school experience in the smaller setting SEED offered. My environment at the time was unstable. I knew I needed something else. The idea of a future of dead-end jobs, with the threat of no lights, food, or a roof over my head was not acceptable to me, and I was eager to make the most of what SEED promised. I was 12 years old when I made my decision, the age my daughter is now. I signed myself up for the lottery and I was the first girl selected to attend SEED! 

SEED poured a lot into the kids. Our teachers did a great job; you could be an “in between” kid and still have the teachers know your name. They were always providing engaging activities. They exposed us to a lot. When we had an African American woman astronaut come speak, it was eye-opening. I appreciated it in the moment and also 20 years later as I reflect back. I will be forever grateful for the travel and summer internship opportunities. I now travel with my kids as much as possible.  

At SEED, I gained knowledge and experiences. In college, I gained self-awareness and the ability to be OK with myself. I would like to send a shout-out to Ms. Allen [The SEED Foundation’s chief growth officer]. In college at Ohio Wesleyan University, it was just me. I was doing well, but Ohio was not DC, and I needed her encouragement. There were very few African American students, and a lot was dumped on me while trying to get an education. At SEED, I felt on top of everything, but in college, I felt like just a number. I am thankful I had SEED and my experiences there to fall back on. In my head, I transferred 20 times, but I’m glad I stuck it out—I was the first in my family to graduate from college.  

The support I felt at SEED was a big influence in my career path. I always wanted to help people; which is why I chose social work. As a case manager, I support a lot of people who don’t have family. I ask them some of the same questions I was asked at SEED: “What are your dreams? What do you like to do?” The level of care is important. It is rewarding to see someone grow and get better. 

I advocate a lot for SEED. I think of the school as a little seed that continues to germinate. I recommend SEED to my friends for their kids. I have a stepson who attends. Some of my classmates have children there now. I love that some of the teachers are still there, and I can ask them to keep an eye out for my stepson or my friends’ children.  

What SEED co-founders Mr. Adler and Mr. Vinnakota came up with is a forever thing. SEED could be global! There are students everywhere who need SEED in their lives. Sometimes taking someone out of their environment is helpful and opens the door to possibility. It is good to see SEED grow. I marvel that SEED is in its 26th year and opening new schools—it’s always going to be my home.