Staff Stories

On the first day of Ramadan, as Muslims around the world begin a month of fasting and reflection, Linwood is thinking about gratitude, growth, and accountability. Currently, as the Senior Site Supervisor for the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Philadelphia, he leads people who are navigating reentry after incarceration. He is also justice-impacted. And he is Muslim. For Linwood, those identities are interconnected and shape his perspective on life.

Devon learned early that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about how you show up for people when no one is watching.

Oudasha grew up in Albany, New York, in the part of the city she describes plainly and honestly as “the slum part of Albany.” It was a place where resources were limited, but expectations were clear. Showing up mattered. Being on time mattered. And when something needed to be done for the community, people stepped up.

Every time Courtney, director of the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Cincinnati, shuts her computer and leaves work after a day spent leading her team, building relationships, and helping formerly incarcerated individuals find work and gain economic stability, she’s reminded of the value of a fair chance.

For Jovany, work has always been more than just a job. It’s been a form of pride, healing, and identity. Raised in Watts, California, after being born in East L.A., Jovany grew up in a household where hard work wasn’t just expected, it was sacred.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of justice-impacted women at the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO). These remarkable leaders have not only rebuilt their own lives but are now paving the way for others, advocating for fair chance hiring, and creating opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. Each of them was asked the same set of questions—reflecting on their challenges, inspirations, and proudest accomplishments. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the deep belief that everyone deserves the chance to succeed.

Many voices often go unheard, and the journey of individuals impacted by the justice system can be both challenging and transformative. The JustLeadership USA (JLUSA) program empowers those with lived experiences to reclaim their narratives and advocate for meaningful change.

Like many young graduates, Quincy wasn’t sure where life would take him after school, but he knew he wanted to work in criminal justice reform.

George calls his full-time job at Center for Employment Opportunities “an answered prayer.” “Not just the job, but to be able to work alongside others,” George says. “To be able to tell them, hey, I know what it takes. Of course, you have to put in the work, but you have people working with you that want to help you.”

We are pleased to announce that Samra Haider has been promoted to the newly created position of President at CEO. This promotion is a recognition of the leadership that Samra has displayed for many years, stewarding the organization through two strategic plans and growth into 12 states across the country.

Before becoming a CEO participant, Cassie Anderson confesses that her life was in shambles. She remembers sleepless nights, homeless in her truck, and trapped in an abusive, long-term relationship that ultimately led to her incarceration. Following her incarceration, Cassie returned to Memphis. As someone with an immense passion for caregiving, she was devastated to learn that, due to her conviction, she would no longer be able to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). So, she started applying to various local businesses, but all of her applications were denied. As she started to lose hope, Cassie remembers praying to God and asking for help.

As a young girl I often reflected on what Martin Luther King’s contributions were to our world in awe. I was always so intrigued by his influence and the work he did within the community to organize and stand against racism. His ability to persist and be a leader on racial justice at such a pivotal time still evokes emotion in me today. I saw him as a super man with a superpower.