A DC native, fifteen year old Zatharia, also known as “Z,” has participated in the YLOT program for more than two years. She attends night school, where she is finishing high school.
Zatharia, also known as “Z”/Photo courtesy of Young Ladies of Tomorrow
What skills have you gained through the program?
We’ve searched for jobs, interviewed each other, resume writing. We have filled out job applications.
What has YLOT taught you?
I learned to help others. I learned to make good decisions. I learned to think before I do something. I used to smoke and do drugs. I used to not come in the house and listen to my mother. Young Ladies of Tomorrow taught me how to be a young lady.
What does the term “young lady” mean to you?
It is being respectful. Going to school every day. Not hanging with a bad crowd. Doing good things.
YLOT participants volunteered as ushers and hostesses at the DC Federation of Democratic Women’s Legislative Empowerment Summit, where they interacted with city officials./Photo courtesy of Young Ladies of Tomorrow.
About the Author: Chanté Griffin, an Older Lady of Tomorrow, is a writer and edu-tainer. You can catch her online at www.yougochante.com and @yougochante.