BIG MOMENT RECAP: From Barriers to Brilliance – The MEmpowerment Pathways Program Graduation

On July 11, 2025, at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Westwood, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center, alongside our partners, gathered to celebrate transformation, resilience, and the power of second chances. The day marked the graduation of participants from our MEmpowerment Pathways Program.

From the heartfelt welcome by Shirley Terrell of the Juvenile Court of Memphis & Shelby County to the inspiring words of Judge Tarik Sugarman and keynote speaker Project Pat, the atmosphere was filled with pride, healing, and renewed purpose. The celebration featured:

• A moving tribute to our program partners

• Inspiring messages from leaders, including Kimbrell Owens, Trey Carter, Brian Wilk, and our own Machelle Pugh

• A powerful participant reflection by graduate Joseph King

• Awards and certificates recognizing the courage and triumphs of our graduates

Through these programs, participants gained industry certifications, life skills, and mentorship; from cognitive behavioral intervention and financial literacy to culinary arts, HVAC, and film/production. They built confidence, explored career pathways, and redefined what’s possible.

This milestone would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated community partners, including AGAPE, Communities in Schools, YMCA Memphis, Baptist Memorial Health Care, Boys 2 Men Mentoring & Equipping, Elevated Aspirations Counseling and Consulting, Memphis Allies/Youth Villages, and many more who poured into these young men.

To our graduates: this is not just a graduation, it’s a bold new beginning. You are the authors of your own future. To our partners and supporters: thank you for standing with us to make healing and transformation a reality.

Together, we proved once again that from barriers can come brilliance.