Za’Indya Street: Overcoming Challenges to Pursue a Career in Healthcare

Za’Indya Street, an alumna of the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program at the Bridge Academy of Southwest Michigan, has always embraced challenges head-on. At just 16, she became one of the academy's first students to graduate early. Despite facing significant personal and socioeconomic barriers, she remained focused on creating a brighter future, working to support herself while pursuing her education and career aspirations.

Through JMG, Za’Indya received more than just academic support—she found guidance, resources, and a network of caring adults who believed in her. While completing her diploma, she worked closely with the Youth Solutions Workforce Pathways Team. One of her most impactful experiences came when she applied for the Corewell Health GROWTH Internship. Although she knew that she would be ineligible for the internship due to her age, she was able to gain valuable experience with the application and interview process and was even ranked as the top interviewee. 

With renewed confidence and continued support from JMG and Michigan Works!, Za’Indya reapplied for the GROWTH Internship once she turned 16—and was excited to be accepted. During her internship, she gained valuable experience working with Corewell Health, assisting at events and making key industry connections. 

Now attending Lake Michigan College, Za’Indya is pursuing her dream of becoming a Pharmacy Technician. While in school, Za’Indya continues to give back to her community and support her peers. She stays actively involved in the Youth Solutions Youth Advisory Council (YAC) and volunteered for the 2025 Career Development Conference, where she will be recognized as a 2025 Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates Exemplary Youth of the Year. 

Billy Coleman, Za’Indya’s JMG specialist, shared, “Za’Indya has harnessed the power of one voice. She was the anchor for our program.”

Her journey is a powerful testament to how determination, paired with opportunities like those offered by Corewell Health, can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.