2026 Ambassadors Shenette & James: Confidence, Community, and Change

A one-time opportunity to lead a journaling workshop for StepUp’s Real World Program became something far more meaningful for Shenette and her son, James. What began as a simple invitation opened the door to a community that would forever change both of their lives.

As a single mother balancing leadership, community work, and multiple responsibilities, Shenette often found herself stretched thin. She was deeply committed to her children, but time and capacity were constant challenges. James, meanwhile, seemed to be doing well. He had a supportive home, success in school, and a clear path ahead. But something was missing, even if he did not yet have the words for it.

“There were times when I felt like I was just existing, not really living.”

StepUp helped fill those unseen gaps. What James found was not just a program, but a third space.

“A third space is a place where community, relaxation, and support happen.”

For James, StepUp became a place beyond home and school where he felt genuinely seen, supported, and excited to show up. For Shenette, it brought relief. Through Real World, her son had access to mentorship, life skills, meals, transportation, and consistent support, giving him opportunities to grow in ways she could not always facilitate on her own.

It also shifted Shenette’s perspective.

“I realized I don’t have to do everything on my own. You can be strong and capable and still need support. StepUp made our lives feel more supported, more connected, more possible.”

Tuesday nights quickly became a highlight in James’ week. Through StepUp’s Real World programming, he built friendships by choice, not circumstance. He connected with mentors, explored new ideas, and was introduced to practical tools he had not encountered before, including goal setting, navigating college decisions, managing money, and caring for his mental health. These experiences helped him develop skills that would shape his future.

More than anything, StepUp changed the way James saw himself.

“StepUp did something special for me. It helped me feel seen and gave me space to think differently and act with more intention.”

Over time, his confidence grew. He began to see himself not simply as a student going through the motions, but as someone actively building a future. That transformation did not go unnoticed.

“He was always doing well on paper: good grades, involved, and responsible. But StepUp helped him come alive in a different way. It truly helped him grow his confidence,” Shenette explained.

Today, James is preparing to graduate from high school and plans to attend Wake Technical Community College as he works toward a bachelor’s degree in finance. His interest in that path was sparked, in part, by exposure to financial professionals through the Real World Program. What once felt uncertain has become a focused and promising path forward.

Looking back, both mother and son agree: StepUp did not just meet a need. It helped reveal one.

For James, it was the difference between simply existing and truly engaging with his future.

For Shenette, it was the reminder that even the strongest families deserve support.

And for both of them, StepUp became more than a program. It became a place where growth, confidence, and community could take root.