May 29, 2025 Achiever Spotlight: Ashley Every month, we celebrate an Achiever who demonstrates growth, perseverance, and a commitment to their goals. This month, we're proud to highlight Ashley, our 2025 Achiever of the Year! Ashley's journey with Friends of the Children - Boston exemplifies what's possible when passion meets determination. Ashley's mentors describe her as a bright, positive, and loving young woman who is fearless in pursuing her dreams. From an early age, she knew exactly where she wanted to go: Boston Arts Academy. Rather than simply hoping, she took concrete steps toward that goal. As a Graphic Design Studio Teen with Arts for Humanity - Boston, her work on Phyllis Wheatley for Women's History Month 2025 was featured on their Instagram, and her artistic vision and dedication paid off when she was recently accepted to Boston Arts Academy after participating in their dual enrollment program. What makes Ashley's story especially inspiring is how she is learning to embrace her voice. Though she considers herself shy and introverted, her mentors have watched her develop remarkable stage presence as a talented vocalist and continuously build her artistic practice. Ashley's ability to take her passion for music performance and visual arts to the next level at such a young age leaves us in awe. She's a perfect example of what happens when young people are supported to make their own dreams come true. We're so proud of Ashley and excited to see where her journey takes her next!