The shop in St. Paul is bright and cheery - despite the wintry mix settling down outside. People are seated with their laptops, with friends, everyone drinking something warm and comforting.

Z and I sit down together. I’ve already told them I think they’re really cool - we share a love for Anne Rice’s Interview with a Vampire and Queer horror, among other things. They’ve been an outstanding member of our cohort, even recently elected to Wildflyer’s first Youth Advisement Board.They start by telling me, “I don’t think I’ve missed a single shift. Except for that one time I was sick.” Which is a feat to say the least.

How Mirah found patience, confidence, and a path forward through Wildflyer—and why the journey doesn’t end at graduation.

“A blank canvas isn’t scary. It’s an opportunity to make something incredible.”

What does dignified employment mean to you? Feeling safe, secure, and valued for your contribution.

“Take in the little things that you do because that is what’s going to give you the drive to do better for yourself. If I get up and I do everything that I need to do and I get to work on time. I feel like that’s an accomplishment for me. It makes me feel like I can finish the rest of my shift and I can do so well.” -NiiSa, Wildflyer Graduate

"Growing up with no love or a strong family, I felt weak and unable to leave like I had nobody that cared or would save me, but I saved myself."  -Esther, Wildflyer Graduate