Meet the Students You’re Helping
Najjiya’s Story
When Najjiya joined our mentoring program in middle school, she never imagined the lifelong connections she would make. Over the years, she was paired with three mentors, each offering guidance and encouragement, but it was her final mentor, Maren, who became like family.
“Maren has supported me throughout every season of my life,” Najjiya shared. “Whether it was attending my high school and college graduations or anxiously letting 16-year-old me drive her car to get my driving hours, she was always present.”
Through Moore Buddies, Najjiya found the support she didn’t even know she needed—mentorship that helped shape her future. Today, we are incredibly proud to celebrate her graduation from NC State University with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Now, she’s paying it forward, using her education to support and uplift others.
Susie’s Story
When Susie first began her adult literacy tutoring, she never imagined just how much it would impact her life. Right at the start of her journey, she experienced an unimaginable loss—the sudden passing of her husband. In the midst of grief, she discovered that investing in her education was one of the best decisions she could have made.
More than just a tutor, her instructor became a friend and a source of strength, guiding her not only in learning but in finding new ways to navigate life’s challenges.
Wanting to join a local church but lacking confidence in her reading and listening skills, Susie’s tutor accompanied her to services—even to the church where the pastor had once delivered heartbreaking news about her husband. With her tutor by her side, she found the courage to participate, following along with bulletins and growing stronger in her faith.
Since then, Susie has blossomed in ways she never thought possible. She now: attends church independently; joins a women’s knitting group, making hats for babies in the community; Meets monthly with a single women’s group for lunch; and participates in fitness activities at the Senior Center.
What started as a journey to improve her English became a path to healing, confidence, and community. Susie is proof that education isn’t just about learning—it’s about opening doors to new opportunities, relationships, and joy.
Be a part of stories like Susie’s and Najjiya’s.
Join Pathway Partners today and change lives every month!