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Graduation FL Lowell 2024

Coding Courage: Empowering Florida Women at Lowell Correctional

On December 6, 2024, at Lowell Correctional in Florida, fifteen women graduated from a rigorous full-stack web development program. Dubbed "Coding Courage: Florida’s Path to Transformation at Lowell Correctional," their achievement marks a powerful journey from confinement to empowerment.

On December 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM, Persevere proudly celebrated a historic milestone: the graduation of its first cohort at Lowell Correctional Institution. Fifteen remarkable women, having completed a rigorous year-long full-stack web development program alongside intensive professional and personal development training, stood tall as symbols of resilience and transformation. The theme of the event, “Transformation: From Caterpillars to Butterflies,” perfectly encapsulated their journey, as the room was adorned with butterflies of every hue, shape, and size. The energy in the air was palpable, a blend of joy, pride, and boundless hope.

Graduating from this program is no small feat, particularly for women navigating the unique challenges of incarceration. For many, prison is a place where hope is scarce, opportunities are limited, and the cycle of poverty and recidivism feels insurmountable. But these graduates defied the odds. Through sheer determination, they embraced the opportunity to rewrite their narratives, equipping themselves with skills to succeed in a competitive and evolving tech industry. As one developer poignantly shared, “This is the first time in a long time that I got something right.”

The ceremony was entirely planned by the graduates themselves, showcasing not only their technical skills but also their leadership, creativity, and teamwork. State Representative Yvonne Hinson, the keynote speaker, delivered a moving address that wove the metaphor of a butterfly’s transformation into a powerful narrative of personal growth. She reflected on how each stage of a butterfly’s development mirrored the challenges these women had faced—from breaking free of their cocoons to spreading their wings and soaring.

The event was deeply emotional and inspiring, with graduates sharing heartfelt reflections on their journeys:

  • Jayla Fisher expressed, “Everything came easy to me, but coding did not, which made me into someone who does not cower or give up because things are not perfect. We are not perfect people, but we are the person we need to be, specifically at this moment.”
  • Tiearra West Brook described her experience as “a journey of self-discovery and growth.” She shared, “With the right support, I realized that I am capable of excelling and becoming the woman I was always meant to be. Years ago, I dreamed of learning coding, but personal obstacles held me back. Today, I am on the path to turning that dream into reality.”
  • Katherine Slaughter noted, “Coding isn’t just about writing lines of code; it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and perseverance. Through every line of code, every error, and every triumph, we’ve grown. Coding has become our refuge and sanctuary. It’s where we escape the walls that confine us—not just physical walls but walls we built in our own minds. It’s taught us inner strength.”
  • Salina D’Amico shared her heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Joining the Persevere family has truly changed my outlook on life. I feel empowered. I feel like it is safe to finally have hopes and dreams because I now also have the tools to achieve them. I feel a daily sense of pride because I am able to excel at a skill that will give me the ability to not only take care of myself but my family as well. This is a game-changer. I feel like I’ve been given the golden ticket, and I’m finally excited to see what the future holds.”

These powerful testimonies underscore the transformative impact of education and empowerment within the justice system. The graduates’ achievements represent far more than the completion of a course; they symbolize hope, perseverance, and the potential for a brighter future.

As E.E. Cummings once said, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” These fifteen women have shown extraordinary courage, embracing the challenges of self-improvement and daring to envision lives beyond the prison walls. Their transformation is a testament to the mission of Persevere: to help individuals see and reach their full potential, breaking cycles of poverty and recidivism while building a foundation for lasting change.

The graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of accomplishments but also a profound reminder of what is possible when opportunity, support, and determination converge. These women have proven that transformation is not just a dream—it is a reality within reach. Their wings are ready, and the world awaits their flight.

Want more?  Check out the Article about the graduation from the Tallahassee Democrat!

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