One Decision in High School Changed the Trajectory of Zainab Raja’s Future

October 4, 2024

When Zainab Raja was in the 11th grade and researching her future career, she turned to her high school’s college and career center for advice. Raja’s counselor handed her a brochure for Genesys Works, a nonprofit focused on creating pathways to career success for high school students in underserved communities.

“After reading the brochure, I knew this was an opportunity I could not miss,” Raja said. “That one decision in 11th grade completely changed the trajectory of my future.”

Raja spent that summer completing Genesys Works’ eight-week training program, which includes business technology and professional skills. Participants who complete the training are matched with a paid, yearlong internship and receive additional training and support for college and career planning.

Genesys Works serves more than 2,900 students each year across seven U.S. markets. Genesys Works National Capital Region launched in 2016 and has developed a pipeline of diverse talent for the region’s employers.

For Raja’s senior year, Genesys Works matched her with a paid internship at AT&T, where she served as a global finance billing analyst while completing her diploma. While in college, she completed a second internship through Genesys Works with Accenture. There, she helped a state government client organize government funding.

“I was drawn to the Genesys Works program for the opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the corporate world as a high school student,” Raja said. “I considered it a valuable stepping stone toward my future career goals. I was eager to seize the opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and professionally.” Continue reading this 2024 Washington Business Journal article here: https://bit.ly/WBJ-5-10-24

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