From foster care to fashion photography: Naomi’s path to success
Naomi’s story with Youth Villages started with the LifeSet program, but her journey to get there was anything but easy. She entered foster care at 4 years old and was adopted at 9. However, she eventually found herself in an environment that wasn’t right for her. At 16, Naomi made the courageous decision to leave—choosing to re-enter foster care on her own terms. She often says she “un-adopted” herself, reclaiming control of her future.
As she aged out of state care, the state child welfare department referred her to LifeSet to help her navigate the complexities of life as a young adult.
“The phrase ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’ resonates deeply with me,” Naomi said. “I knew the basics of adulting, like laundry and cooking, but LifeSet stepped in to fill many gaps.”
LifeSet helped her find an apartment, understand her lease, and budget her money so she could pay rent and bills on time. They guided her through grocery shopping, creating a resume, finding a dentist, and scheduling doctor’s appointments. Basically, anything she needed, LifeSet was there to support her.
Last year, Naomi faced one of the most challenging periods of her life. She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and experienced a severe manic episode.
“It was an overwhelming and frightening time,” she said. “I was so worried about falling behind in school.”
Thankfully LifeSet was there. They provided consistent check-ins, encouragement and support, helping me learn coping skills to manage my mental health and keep moving forward.
Today, Naomi is a senior at Fitchburg State University, majoring in photography, and she is part of the LifeSet Scholars program. LifeSet played a key role in helping her transfer from community college to a four-year university. They guided her through the complexities of the student loan process, helped her find housing, obtain a driver’s license and even buy a car.
Naomi is currently in the process of finding an internship, which is the last requirement needed to graduate.
“It is stressful but without LifeSet, I would be a mess,” Naomi said. “I would be so much more stressed right now. I think I am now just the normal level of a college student stressed.”
After graduation, Naomi plans to pursue a career in fashion photography. She also hopes to travel, explore new cultures and capture stories through her lens.
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