Mercy Trailblazer Fellowship Learning Log

My ABF journey began at the conviction in my future of my late FCCLA Advisor, Miss Lori Henry. Through a service and volunteer work organization, I was given the opportunity to build a meaningful relationship with Miss. Henry, so much so that she always made a way for me. Bringing ABF to my attention was the blessing she didn’t get to witness; but equally a privilege she instilled through her belief in me. The first grant I received from the Ann Bancroft Foundation allowed me to attend and compete at the FCCLA National Leadership Conference in back in 2023. That experience expanded my confidence in thriving in professional settings and equally showed me what was possible when someone invests in your dreams. In 2026, returning to the Foundation as a 2025–2026 Trailblazer Fellow felt incredibly full circle. It reminded me that growth is not just about reaching new milestones but about continuing to build on the opportunities you’ve been given.

This past year, my Trailblazer Fellowship grant that I was blessed with supported my attendance at the Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference during my senior year of DECA. There, I competed in the Entrepreneurship: Starting a Business Plan event with my startup business plan ZENITH: Interpreting Services, and was honored to be named a national finalist. By reaching that stage, it became a reflection of years of living, learning, and believing that ideas can create meaningful impact. With the support of the Ann Bancroft Foundation behind me, this experience became even more meaningful, allowing me to focus on learning, competing, and growing without the stress of financial barriers standing in the way.

As I completed my first year at Howard University, the Trailblazer Fellowship also became a source of community and connection. Moving across the country for college came with many transitions, but knowing I was still connected to a network of women who believed in leadership, service, and personal growth gave me confidence. The Foundation reminded me that I was never navigating these new experiences alone, but instead always had a community with a common goal; success. Something that can never tear down my drive.

Throughout the fellowship, I gained far more than financial support. The financial literacy workshops equipped me with practical skills to make informed decisions about budgeting, investing in my future, and understanding the value of financial independence. The keynote speakers shared stories that challenged me to think bigger, embrace uncertainty, and pursue leadership with authenticity. Fellowship events introduced me to accomplished women from diverse industries whose experiences broadened my perspective on what is possible. Just as valuable were the reliable resources and supportive community that encouraged me to ask questions, seek guidance, and continue growing professionally.

One of my biggest takeaways from this fellowship is that opportunities are meant to be built upon. Every experience, relationship, and lesson becomes the foundation for the next. The AnnBancroft Foundation did more than invest in my education—it invested in my confidence, my leadership, and my belief that I belong in spaces where decisions are made and change is created.

For future applicants, my advice is to be authentically yourself. Through and through. Don’t focus on trying to sound perfect or having every detail of your future figured out. You should instead share what genuinely motivates you, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the impact you hope to make; especially for the community around you. This Foundation is looking for people who are willing to grow, care to lead, and uplift others deeper than in a professional way.

As I reflect on this journey, I am deeply grateful to be part of the Ann Bancroft Foundation community more than once. The Trailblazer Fellowship is truly unique to its purpose. It has been an incredible privilege to continue growing alongside so many inspiring women, even through the smallest of our interactions. I truly believe that we challenge one another to dream boldly and lead with purpose. I know this fellowship has shaped not only who I am today but also the leader within me.

Thank you to the Ann Bancroft Foundation for believing in me, and the utmost thank you to Miss Lori Henry, whose belief in me got me here. Your impact continues to guide me every day.