Africa's Path to Homeownership and Beyond
“I want to do everything once. I don’t want the wheelchair to stop me at all.”
Africa, a Goodwill associate at the Eisenhower retail store, is in the process of setting her next big goal. She just checked a big one off her list-- becoming a homeowner.
"Oh, it’s lovely. Out of this whole 7 years, it’s been rough getting here, but now that I’m there, I’m great," she shares, radiating pride. She smiles, flipping through some photos on her phone showing her sitting outside her home.
Africa says she’s received unwavering support from managers, human resources, the mission team and other Associates throughout her nearly 17-year journey with Goodwill Southeast Georgia. She says this was key to helping her continue to push for her goal.
“All of my managers help me—even when I felt like I couldn’t get that far, they were always like ‘Africa you can do it, you can do it, don’t give up,’” she acknowledges gratefully.
Her time with Goodwill Southeast Georgia has not only provided Africa with a steady income but also gives her confidence and independence. Starting out as a shy newcomer, Africa blossomed into a confident production tech, finding fulfillment in her work and the financial stability to go for her goals.
Africa says she’s learned a lot about the homebuying process, emphasizing the importance of saving and budgeting.
“I had to be very, very, very disciplined,” she recalls. “I had to cut out a lot of spending, a lot of eating out, I had to go to certain home education classes.”
Africa's journey serves as a testament to the power of determination and resilience. She refuses to let stereotypes or challenges define her, demonstrating that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
“I want to show my son, just because his mother is in a wheelchair, that don’t stop nothing,” says Africa. “It’s been quite a journey, and if I can do it, anybody can do it.”
At Goodwill, Africa found more than just a job; she found a community that supports and uplifts her through every triumph and setback.
"Through my barriers, and my trials and my tribulations, Goodwill has been there for me," she acknowledges with gratitude.
As for what’s next---Africa’s spirit of adventure is leading her forward. She’s setting her sights on traveling the world with her son!
Support strong women like Africa this Women's History Month!
Join in March Gladness!
Round up your change at any one of our 15 retail stores to support Goodwill programs transforming lives like Africa's.
Expanding Horizons in Healthcare: Kimberly’s Story
Expanding Horizons in Healthcare: Kimberly’s Story Above: Kimberly shares her experience in the Phlebotomy Technician training cohort at Goodwill. Goodwill Southeast Georgia is celebrating the graduation of the Phlebotomy Technician […]
Behind the Scenes with the Cycle of Good: Dell ReConnect
Behind the Scenes: Dell ReConnect How Donating Electronics to Goodwill Helps You, the Environment, and Our Community At Goodwill Southeast Georgia, we’re committed to driving positive change in our community. […]
Building Brighter Futures: Goodwill and Habitat Collab
Building Brighter Futures: Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity Goodwill Southeast Georgia strives to provide a workplace that reflects the diverse communities around us and where each person feels empowered to […]
Thrift Your Costume and Remake the Movie!
Easy, Thrifted Costumes: Remake the Movie! Halloween is just two days away, but if you’re still searching for the perfect costume, don’t worry! Goodwill is here with six easy costume […]
Thrift or Treat: Five Costumes, One Accessory Kit Challenge!
It’s time to Thrift or Treat! Three Goodwill teammates, one costume accessory kit, and the results: five new Halloween costume ideas for you to check out. This year, our 7 […]
Magical DIY Kids’ Costumes at Goodwill’s Bit of Boo!
Magical DIY Costumes at Bit of Boo! This Halloween season, an eerie-sistable shopping experience is waiting for you at Goodwill Southeast Georgia! Visit one of our seven Boo-tiques to find […]
Leadership Spotlight: Meredith Champagne on NDEAM and the Impact of AbilityOne
Leadership Spotlight: NDEAM and the Impact of AbilityOne Meredith Champagne, Vice President of Strategy and Executive Director of AbilityOne This month on the Good News Pod, we are excited to […]
Ravila’s Path to Independence and Leadership
For seven years, Ravila worked with a major retailer in Savannah. When his time there came to an unexpected end, he found a new path with Goodwill’s AbilityOne program, and […]