Say hello to Kenyetta Matier, a long-time staff member and integral part of the Youth Focus team!
1. How would you describe your job in a few words to a stranger?
I’m apart of a transitional living program for women who are pregnant or parenting. I assist/guide them on their path to becoming a young woman and finding their path in life.
2. What’s your typical day at work like?
Typically I’m only available during the 3rd shift so most interactions are helping young women prepare themselves and/or children for the night, in the morning if transports are needed for work and/or daycare or if any circumstances may arise during the night that may require my assistance. This might be medication administration, counsel, possible transportation to and from work, or the doctor.
3. What is your favorite thing about working at Youth Focus?
Having the positive influence to change and/or make a difference in our youth lives. Even if that difference is for one person, it brings joy to my heart that I was apart of their journey to better.
4. What is one thing you wish the general public knew about Youth Focus?
Youth Focus offers and provides many services to all ages of our youth. Our primary goal is to serve the families to the best of our ability.
5. What energizes you the most outside of work?
Maintaining my spirituality and peace of mind by helping my elderly family by providing transportation and ensuring their essential needs are met. In addition, I find time to pamper myself with consistent hair appointments, trying various restaurants, and finding a good Netflix show to binge-watch.
6. What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
“Let go and let God”. My mom who passed away in 2015 instilled in me to trust and believe in God in all you do and you will prevail.
7. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
To always have peace within this world.
8. What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Although I was raised the majority of my life by a single parent, my mother, that didn’t mean I wasn’t loved any less. Anything you set your mind to, set goals, apply yourself, and stay determined.
9. What’s the biggest misconception people have about the youth you work with?
The biggest misconception is that our youth are “bad kids”. Our youth are not bad kids, but individuals who need guidance and additional positive individuals that can assist in their path of life.
10. What’s one song you have completely memorized?
Take Me As I Am by Mary J Blige
