This is the story of Guardian Scholar Datayia and her mentor, Maya, founder and owner of Maya’s Cookies

DaTayia (23) entered when she was 7 years old due to abuse from a family member. Throughout 13 years in care, she moved schools 5 times.

Today, she is a Guardian Scholar studying at San Diego City College, working towards her associate degree in esthetician business administration. She is an active member of the Black Identity Group.

In her own words:

“Being part of the Black group has allowed me to open up with others who are a part of my race and can relate to me. Everyone is so kind and I love that everyone keeps it real. This means a lot to me because it’s hard to find people who come from the same background as me and can be genuine.

I have connected with a mentor named Maya. She has taught me about entrepreneurship and the responsibilities and outcomes of owning a business. This has really impacted me because I want to eventually own a business, and hearing from someone who comes from the same background is amazing and motivational. She is very caring, easy to talk to, and is always willing to answer my questions related to owning a business. On top of that, I’ve been able to talk about my ethnicity and where I come from, and this group is like another family.“