Every month, we celebrate an Achiever who has shown incredible growth, perseverance, and dedication to their goals. This month, we are proud to spotlight Anna*, a 14-year-old Achiever whose courage, self-advocacy, and growth mindset have helped her take meaningful steps forward in school and in life. After struggling with anxiety, attendance, and confidence in her previous school environment, Anna recognized what she needed to succeed and spoke up for herself!

If you've ever visited Friends of the Children–Boston and gotten a tour, there's a good chance Anna was the one giving it. She's done it for guests of all kinds, including elected officials, and her Friend (professional mentor) Kadijah says she handles every one seamlessly.

That instinct to show up runs through everything Anna does. She helps advise on programs and decisions as a member of the Adolescent Leadership Council. She is also a member of the National Friends of the Children Youth Leadership Council and was part of the Youth Leaders in Mental Health program, where she helped deliver presentations on internet safety for younger Achievers. When we asked what she is most proud of this year, she lit up talking about all of it!

"When she believes in me even when I'm having a hard time."

That's what Anna said when we asked what her Friend Kadijah does that means the most to her. And this past year gave that answer a lot of meaning.

Anna was struggling. She had lost motivation to go to school, her grades were slipping, and she could tell she wasn't thriving. She shared that her previous school made her feel anxious, unsure, and "not very smart." With support from both her caregiver and her Friend (professional mentor) Kadijah, Anna advocated for a school transfer and then followed through on the steps needed to make it happen.

Together, the three of them went to the Boston Public Schools enrollment center to initiate the transfer. When staff shared that Anna might need to repeat 8th grade, she did not see it as a setback. She saw it as an opportunity to improve her grades and attendance and strengthen her chances of getting into a strong high school.

"I was incredibly impressed that she recognized what she needed, and advocated successfully for that." — Kadijah, Friend (professional mentor)

Since switching schools, Anna's attendance, grades, and confidence have all improved significantly. By the end of last school year, Anna was passing her classes, completing her work, and turning in assignments on time. Kadijah would check in with her nearly every day, not because Anna cannot manage it, but because steady support is part of what helps her keep moving forward.

Anna's story is a perfect example of what long-term, consistent mentorship makes possible. With a trusted Friend by her side, Anna had the support to name what was not working, advocate for what she needed, and continue growing into the leader we already see in her.

And with that drive, self-awareness, and community behind her, there's every reason to believe she'll get there.

*Name changed to protect privacy.