Ammilyn, Fond du Lac band of Minnesota Chippewa and Cheyenne River Sioux, enrolled in Takoda GED program after leaving a suburban Twin Cities high school, where she at times felt unwelcome and grappled with mental health challenges.
Today, GED in hand, Ammilyn credits the attention she received from LeeAnn at Takoda for her diploma. “She kept in touch, making sure I was okay and encouraging me. She believed in me, and that gave me faith.”
“Five years from now? I plan to be meeting new people and working in the medical field,” Ammilyn says. “All doors are open.”
After moving from Kenya to the United States in search of a better future, Chep dedicated her life to caring for others while quietly carrying the weight of trauma, motherhood, and survival. Through years of hardship, healing, and self-discovery, she found the strength to rebuild her life and rediscover her purpose. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of starting over.
Raised within the Native community of South Minneapolis, Briezy Lee knows both the weight of loss and the importance of belonging. Through personal struggles, perseverance, and creativity, she built a path rooted in helping others. Her journey reflects the power of healing, community, and choosing hope even after hardship.
Discover Kabao’s inspiring journey—from growing up in Minnesota as part of a Hmong family to becoming a dedicated teacher at Takoda Prep. Her story highlights resilience, connection, and the powerful impact a caring educator can have on students’ lives. Read more to see how Kabao is making a difference every day.
