De’zha Boynton, a remarkable alumna from the 2016 Rising Stars cohort, exemplifies the power of determination and support in overcoming adversity.
Early Challenges and Triumphs
De'zha's early life was fraught with adversity, including periods of displacement and struggles with addiction within her family. The pivotal moment came through her involvement with a BOSS emergency shelter, where she found the encouragement and resources to embark on a path toward a more hopeful future.
In 2016, De’zha graduated from Berkeley High School and went to college in the Fall. She graduated college with a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Africana Studies from California State University Northridge (CSUN). While in college, she was very involved in areas that would help her become the well-rounded young lady she is today. She was part of the Black Leadership Council, a Zeta Phi Beta Sorority member, and President of Black Girl Magic. Following graduation, she moved across the country to Detroit, Michigan, with the help of Teach for America, to become a teacher in inner-city Detroit. This is where we find De’zha today. De’zha loves what she does and the journey it took to get her there.
I’m a living example of no matter what your childhood looks like or even what your current situation looks like, you are worth the journey to joy and success.
The mistakes of your parent/families are not yours. In order to see your potential, you have to forgive them for the hurt they caused you - De'Zha Boynton
A Legacy of Empowerment
De’zha Boynton, a 2016 Rising Stars recipient, was honored alongside 19 other youths from four local partner organizations/schools in Berkeley. Twenty youths were nominated and awarded the Rising Stars Youth award. BOSS recognized De’zha for her strength, endurance, and ability to rise above her challenges and circumstances.
De’zha says she doubted herself millions of times along her journey, not knowing exactly what she wanted to do. De’zha's story is not just about individual achievement; it's about how supportive communities like BOSS can catalyze profound change in individuals’ lives. It’s also a family story of full circle, as her mother now manages a BOSS program, further underscoring the organization's lasting impact. She remembers being in BOSS’s emergency shelter programs in Berkeley with her mother. She says this is where BOSS motivated her to do better and make her mother proud.
Thank you De’zha. We saw your light shine ever so brightly when you were unable to. The stars were truly aligned for you to persevere and to bring light to others. Your story helps to inspire and transform the lives of so many and we are sure you will continue to do so.
Join us at this year's Rising Stars Celebration of Hope to continue this legacy of change and empowerment. Help us spread the word about De’zha's inspiring journey and BOSS's transformative work. Please share this story, participate in our events, and continue to support initiatives that uplift and empower.
Donate or become a sponsor today: RISING STARS CELEBRATION OF HOPE
CONGRATULATIONS and much love goes out to the Boynton family and extended family members and friends who helped to shape and shine even a brighter light on this wonderful lady.
UPDATE #1: As of last year, De’zha’s
mother returned to BOSS, not as a client, but as a manager at the women and children program in Oakland.
UPDATE #2: De’Zha recently announced that she and her husband are expecting a baby in January.
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