Winning Futures honors Shelby Township businesswoman, Sterling Heights student

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A local businesswoman and a student were among those honored June 6 at the Winning Futures annual awards celebration in Madison Heights.

At the yearly Winning Futures Awards Celebration, the Warren-based nonprofit program’s top students receive scholarships and career mentors receive recognition for their dedication and service.

This year, four local business professionals were recognized for their five years of career mentoring service and 18 metro Detroit students were awarded a total of $25,000 in scholarships.

Beverly Maddox, principal consultant of BFM Consulting Group in Shelby Township, was one of the four mentors recognized.

Career mentors are local businesspeople who volunteer with Winning Futures to help students figure out what they’ll do after high school, and to teach them life and job-readiness skills needed for success.

In addition, Onelya William, from Community High School in Sterling Heights, part of the Warren Consolidated Schools, and whom Maddox mentored, received a $3,000 scholarship toward her future education through the Cupp-Hamilton Scholarships.

William said that she was ecstatic after hearing that she had been recognized and was chosen to receive a scholarship.

“I still can’t believe it to be honest. I’m so grateful for receiving this scholarship. It’s truly one of the best things that happened to me,” she said via email.

She said it will be going toward college, mostly books and classes.

She said her mentor, Maddox, was able to help her in many different ways that will boost her future.

“Beverly was so sweet; she would always put a smile on my face even when I was having a bad day. She also helped me and guided me towards what I wanted to do. She also believed in me even when I was having doubts about my future. She was the best mentor ever,” she said.

She said the Winning Futures program was a great experience.

“I think it’s one of the best programs, because it truly helps to guide you to the future that you want and it gives you opportunities,” she said.

Maddox started career mentoring with Winning Futures in 2018 at Cass Technical High School in Detroit.

“Being recognized for five years of career mentoring service is truly humbling and brings me a great sense of pride. To have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students through mentoring is a privilege that I hold dear. I am deeply grateful for the recognition and the chance to contribute to the mission of Winning Futures. It has been an incredible journey thus far, and I eagerly anticipate continuing to be a part of this meaningful organization and mentoring more students in the years ahead,” she said in an email.

She said that as a mentor, she finds the scholarships and program offered by Winning Futures to be truly remarkable.

“I genuinely believe that every school and student should have the privilege of accessing such an impactful initiative. The opportunities provided through this program have the potential to transform lives and empower young individuals to reach their full potential. Moreover, the provision of scholarships demonstrates a deep commitment to leveling the playing field and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder deserving students from pursuing higher education,” said Maddox.

She said that by alleviating the burden of college expenses, these scholarships enable talented individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford it to fulfill their academic aspirations. 

She said that being a mentor is something that she finds inspiring.

“Personally, I am inspired by the holistic approach of Winning Futures, which not only focuses on financial assistance, but also provides invaluable guidance and mentorship. I am wholeheartedly impressed by their commitment to empowering students through scholarships and a transformative program. It is my sincere hope that more organizations and institutions adopt similar initiatives to provide equitable opportunities for students across the board,” she said.

She said the experience of working with William has been very rewarding.

“When I first met her, she faced challenges and uncertainties in navigating college due to limited resources,” Maddox said. “However, witnessing her transformation throughout our mentorship has been truly remarkable and inspiring. With the support of the Winning Futures scholarship, Onelya received the essential financial assistance she needed, which played a vital role in boosting her confidence.”

Maddox said it has been a privilege to witness William’s growth from cautious and uncertain to confident and determined.

“From delivering an impactful commencement speech to achieving honors and securing her college acceptance, Onelya has demonstrated her resilience and determination. I am exceptionally proud of her progress, and I have no doubt that she will continue to excel and make a significant positive impact in her academic and personal pursuits,” she said.