Latonya finds value in mentorship for career in social work

Originally from Chicago, Latonya arrived in Austin about six months before discovering Dress for Success Austin. She found the organization through an internet search while looking for career resources. She was familiar with Dress for Success from her time in Chicago so when the name appeared in her search results, she took action and scheduled an appointment.

Over the last few years, Latonya was recovering from an illness that affected her eyes, lungs, and liver resulting in a temporary loss of sight and mobility. She’s since had surgery for her eyes and slowly gotten some movement back, but during that time when her physical health was limited, she proactively utilized the time to go back to school. She now has an associate’s degree in social work, a bachelor’s degree in sociology, and a master’s degree in social work which she obtained in June 2023. Latonya also volunteers including participation in a seedling mentor program and spending time helping others with their taxes.

With her newfound bill of health, she immediately joined DFSA’s Path to Employment program where she was matched with mentor Cynthia Akatugba, a long-time DFSA supporter and last year’s Volunteer of the Year. Now two months later, she is wrapping the program after meeting with Cynthia once per week to get back into the workforce.

Latonya mentions that the experience has been amazing while commenting, “She was helpful with every question I had and helped me with my interview skills. I’m able to be heard with her. I love the way she gives me homework at the end of our sessions. She’s efficient with our time. She gave me confidence. Even though I am going through this personal hurdle, I have to keep going and persevere.”

Latonya has also attended a recent Professional Women’s Group where Dr. Schmeka Gibson hosted a workshop on Positive Workplaces and workplace bullying. Latonya enjoyed this workshop because it allowed each person the opportunity to tell how they felt about the topic and past experiences. This session provided PWG members with conflict resolution skills. Latonya commented that she felt acknowledged throughout the session and didn’t feel any judgement from Schmeka or the other women in attendance.

Latonya is now pursuing a license to help others with disabilities through social work. She also has plans to open a non-profit that provides parents with healthy tools for future generations. She hopes to encourage others not to give up when faced with health challenges and encourages women to use every tool available to achieve success.

“I heard something from Cynthia that no one has told me before. She was proud of me for coming here and showing up.”