MEET AALIYAH,

Aaliyah used to believe the only way to be heard was through her fists. School fights, tension at home, and a heart full of anger kept her stuck in a cycle she couldn’t escape.

But then, she started working on something different—herself. Through mentorship and emotional regulation skills, Aaliyah learned that real strength isn’t in throwing punches, but in choosing her words, controlling her reactions, and leading with wisdom.

Now, she’s using her voice instead of her fists—and she’s determined to help others do the same.

* The youth's name has been changed for confidentiality