Jessica first heard about American Indian OIC through the South Minneapolis community. She had previously enrolled in our GED program, but didn’t finish. After gaining custody of her nephew, she felt a renewed motivation to attain her GED—a personal goal she was ready to tackle, despite not ever being a big fan of school.
At American Indian OIC, Jessica worked closely with AIOIC Career Coach, Julia, and GED Coordinator, LeeAnn. She received career planning services and got help with looking for jobs, developing a résumé, and preparing for the GED exam. Through independent study, she developed a strong work ethic and committed to showing up and getting the work done.
Jessica believes that support from staff was key to her success. LeeAnn consistently checked in, encouraged her, and offered her steady support through life’s many challenges. Julia motivated her with clear goals and tangible rewards – reminding her that success is possible and worth striving for. Dawna also provided essential organization tools and ongoing structure.
We’re so proud to report that Jessica successfully reached her goal and got her GED earlier this year. Today, she works part-time and is looking for a full-time role. She hopes to continue serving the Native community, where she feels most connected and impactful and even jokes about one day becoming an employee of American Indian OIC.
Completing her GED has given Jessica immense confidence. She’s become a better role model for her son, she is prioritizing her health and is considering applying to college. Her advice to others thinking about coming to AIOIC is, “Take that first step. Once you’re there—focus. Self-determination is everything. Nobody else can do this for you.”
From overcoming homelessness at 18 to becoming a leader in her community, Delema’s journey is one of resilience, culture, and purpose. Discover how she stayed connected to her roots while building a path to success and why her work today is so deeply personal.
In honor of National Women’s Month this March, we are proud to highlight Linda Eagle Speaker, a strong leader who has spent more than 20 years helping and healing her community.
Guided by her culture, traditions, and deep respect for relationships, Linda has dedicated her life to supporting Native families, helping people reconnect with their heritage, and showing that healing and resilience are always possible.
After incarceration, Nicole “BP” made a promise to herself: build a better future. With determination and support from American Indian OIC, she earned her Class A CDL and is now driving toward bigger opportunities for herself and her family.
