Jequilla Boyce was introduced to the East DeKalb Club early, when she was just five years old. In the 11 years since, she has been through challenges, but says the Club has been with her each step of the way.
Jequilla has been in foster homes, and says that as a child she had trouble speaking up and making friends. She credits the Club and the activities she participated in with helping her come out of her shell, develop confidence, and grow into the leader she is today.
When she was little, her favorite program was “I Can”, where the group explored activities, like baking cookies and building playgrounds that grew their confidence and skills. As a teen, she loves participating with the Club’s Encore teen dance team. She recalls that team leader Ms. Tab taught the dancers that they “should not be confined” in dance or life, and let them choose their own styles and songs.
Performing in the 2013 Teen Poetry Slam was a pivotal moment for Jequilla, where she wrote about her experience with diabetes, and the stereotypes she has faced. While emotionally challenging, the experience taught Jequilla how to confront issues and connect with others, and she was a runner-up in the competition. This was one of the happiest days in Jequilla’s life.
Jequilla believes that we all have a story worth listening to, though some may not believe it. For college, she plans to continue at Georgia State where she is currently dual-enrolled, and major in Nursing. Later, her goal is to become an Anesthesiologist, so she can help patients “wake up to a better life.”
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