Meet Leadreahana Drew, Exemplary Youth of the Year from Pershing High School, a program of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation

Leadreahana “Ahana” Drew is a powerful example of consistency, leadership, and quiet determination. A student at Pershing High School, Ahana has faced significant challenges from a young age, including limited support at home and navigating daily responsibilities on her own. Despite these barriers—including walking half a mile to school each day—she has remained focused on her education and future, building a path defined by resilience and purpose.

When Ahana first joined Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG), she was motivated by her brother’s involvement and a desire to step outside of her comfort zone. What began as a personal goal quickly grew into something much larger. With support from her JMG specialist, Carolyn Miller, Ahana found opportunities to lead, serve, and grow—emerging as one of the program’s most dependable and influential student leaders.

Ahana has taken on leadership roles within JMG, consistently stepping up to support her peers and strengthen her school community. She played a key role in leading the Dre Project food pantry, ensuring students and families had access to essential resources, and has helped plan and coordinate JMG activities throughout the year.

Whether mentoring classmates, organizing initiatives, or preparing for major events like Legislative Day, Ahana approaches every opportunity with confidence and care.

Her growth has been especially evident in moments that push her beyond her comfort zone. From participating in career-readiness activities and employer engagement opportunities to preparing to present the Legislative Champion Award at Legislative Day, Ahana has embraced every chance to develop her voice and leadership skills.

Through her involvement, she has not only built confidence in herself, but also inspired those around her to do the same.

“Ahana naturally steps into leadership in everything she does,” shared Miller. “She takes what she is given and makes it better through her advocacy, cooperation, and commitment to others.”

In the classroom, Ahana continues to excel. She maintains a 3.8 GPA and is known by her teachers as a dedicated, hardworking student who leads by example. Outside of school, she actively participates in community service, extracurricular activities, and internship opportunities, demonstrating a strong commitment to both personal and professional growth.

Now a senior, she plans to attend the University of Detroit Mercy, where she will major in Business Administration. Thanks to her strong academics and involvement in extracurricular activities—including student council, volleyball, and softball—she has earned a full-ride scholarship. She will continue building a future grounded in leadership and service, reflecting not only her own strength but also the impact of JMG in helping students overcome barriers and realize their full potential.

Congratulations, Ahana, on being recognized as the Detroit Metro Exemplary Youth of the Year at the 2026 Career Development Conference! We are proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited for the bright future ahead!