A New Path: Daughters of Zion CNA Graduates Share Their Journey from Poverty to Purpose
By: Staff on September 26, 2024
MEMPHIS, TN—— On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, a remarkable cohort of determined individuals emerged from the Daughters of Zion Certified Nursing Assistant program at William and Johnson Career College, turning the page on a new chapter in their lives. This esteemed program is a beacon of hope and empowerment for at-risk, low-income individuals, offering not only essential skills for a rewarding career in the medical field but also a nurturing community where dreams take shape and aspirations soar. As a proud Family First grantee awarded by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, Daughters of Zion is dedicated to transforming lives, and these graduates are a testament to its powerful impact.
In a society where barriers often seem insurmountable, organizations like Daughters of Zion play a crucial role as catalysts for change. They guide individuals toward promising careers that not only bolster financial stability but also cultivate a deep sense of purpose and belonging. By opening the doors to a profession that is both lucrative and fulfilling, Daughters of Zion has ignited a path to self-sufficiency and empowerment for those who need it most.
As we reflect on the heartfelt experiences of these recent graduates, the following interviews reveal their journeys—filled with revelation, gratitude, and unwavering ambition. Their stories serve as inspiration for future students, proving that with support, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning, anyone can rise above challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
Shonquinett Moore- “During the CNA course I had a great experience, I learned a lot, met some great people, after completing the CNA course I plan on furthering my education and becoming a registered nurse.”
Tiffany Smith – “It was a dream come true an eye-opener, well not necessarily an eye-opener but a dream come true one of my dreams come true. I plan on pursuing well going forward with the CNA program.”
Morgan Harris – “My experience with the CNA program it was good I loved it, it was very convenient for me, and overall it was just a good program. After the program I plan on actually going to work somewhere I don’t know exactly where yet but I know I would like to further my career in the field.”
Takeiya Grayer- “I would say when I first started, I really didn’t know as much as I do now. I had experience in a dentist’s office and worked in a medical warehouse, but I never had a real experience until this program. I’ve learned a lot throughout the process, and it’s just been a great journey to gain all the knowledge I have, so I’m grateful. Moving forward, this is just the beginning. I’ve always wanted to be a nurse, and this is the start of my journey. I really want to become a licensed practical nurse—that’s the goal, and I’m only going up from here.”
Tiffany Golden – “My experience I really didn’t know what to expect at the beginning, but coming into it, it was awesome. With the instructor she was teaching things somethings I didn’t even know, somethings I did because I was already a CNA. I just came back into the program because I didn’t submit 8hrs of work so I had to sit back in class but I learned a lot. She helped everybody. The class was awesome, the students and everyone were beautiful. My plan is to find a career in CNA and maybe God willing next year start the LPN program. Those are my plans. And they are already in the works.”
For those looking to transform their lives and futures, enrollment is now open for Daughters of Zion’s William & Johnson Career College CNA program. Interested individuals can call 901-570-3220 to take the first step toward empowerment and upward mobility in the medical field.
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