At StepStones for Youth, we’re lucky to work alongside a team of front-line staff whose compassion and commitment shine through everything they do. Among them is Rahwa – an individual whose work is a calling rooted in deep respect for the lived experiences of youth, and a fierce commitment to walking beside them as they chart their own course. Over the past three years, Rahwa has become a cornerstone of our front-line team, known for her steady presence, honest guidance, and the way she pieces together the long-term puzzle of each youth’s goals.
Walking Beside Youth, Not Ahead of Them.
Intentional with her approach to each and every youth she works with, Rahwa doesn’t look for quick fixes. She’s focused on the big picture, addressing the root of negative patterns, encouraging education over short-term jobs, and guiding youth toward sustainable change. For example, if a youth wants to return to school but also works to support themselves financially, Rahwa helps them map a realistic path forward, one that honours both necessity and ambition. Aware of the challenges that youth from foster care are faced with, Rahwa’s approach is direct, having those difficult yet essential conversations with youth, and guiding them on a pathway towards success.
It’s in her calmness during a crisis that her leadership shines. Whether supporting a youth through mental health challenges or navigating tricky conversations around substance use, she approaches each moment with care and clarity. She’s honest, never sugarcoating the realities of a path ahead, and always ensuring her words are rooted in trust and a belief in youth’s ability to change course. Rahwa validates what youth are feeling, builds emotional insight, and helps them take the next step forward, no matter how small. This long-term thinking is what makes her so special. When a youth struggles, she doesn’t only see problems; she sees people and the possibilities that lie ahead.
Rahwa’s care doesn’t stop with the youth she supports. She’s the kind of teammate who checks in with others when the office is busy, who steps up without being asked, and who carries a quiet but powerful presence that others gravitate toward. Whether helping her colleagues navigate tough days or advocating for youth across multiple sectors, her intuition and initiative make a lasting impact.
Three years into her journey with StepStones, Rahwa remains an unshakable advocate and a grounding presence for both youth and staff. She leads with her heart, supports with her hands, and thinks with the future in mind. Thank you, Rahwa, for being a leader and a shining light for youth at StepStones.
