Kenada grew up in Charleston and left high school at 17 with plans to join the National Guard. After learning that she needed a high school diploma or GED to enlist, she began working and tried to pursue her GED at the same time. Balancing the two proved difficult, and her education was put on hold.
In December 2024, Kenada moved to Greenville to enter a recovery program and began refocusing on her goals. As she gained stability and transitioned to Oxford House, a supportive recovery housing program, she decided the time was right to finish what she had started. A Google search for local GED programs led her to Greenville Literacy Association.
Once enrolled at GLA, Kenada’s biggest challenge was balancing work, school, and recovery. She created a schedule, separated her workdays from her school days, and stayed focused. Her motivation quickly stood out. GLA Program Manager Vera was impressed by Kenada’s drive and abilities as she began passing her GED Ready tests and moving quickly toward her goal.
Kenada’s advice to other students is simple: “Don’t give up.” She is grateful to God and the GLA staff for supporting her as she earned her GED.
Now, Kenada is ready for her next goal: earning her Commercial Driver’s License through Greenville Technical College. She hopes a career driving trucks and large vehicles will give her the opportunity to travel and see more of the country while continuing to build the future she has worked so hard to create.