Quaneda Real
Quaneda Real’s story is one of strength, perseverance, and transformation. A devoted single mother of four daughters, Quaneda has faced more than her share of challenges, but never let them define her.
Becoming a mother as a teenager and leaving school early, Quaneda found herself navigating adulthood without a diploma, a steady support system, or clear direction. Later, after the end of her marriage and with two more daughters to care for, she faced the daunting task of building a better life on her own.
But through every struggle, her daughters were her motivation. One of them encouraged her to return to school and earn her high school diploma—a decision that changed everything. That milestone not only opened new doors but also sparked a belief in her potential.
Determined to keep moving forward, Quaneda visited the SEMCA Michigan Works! Highland Park American Job Center. She came looking for job search support—and found so much more. Her Career Coach offered patience, encouragement, and the kind of consistent support that helped Quaneda see a new path forward.
With SEMCA Michigan Works! behind her, Quaneda enrolled in Community Health Worker (CHW) training, driven by the desire to give back and make a difference in others’ lives, just as others had done for her.
Today, she’s proud to be doing just that. Quaneda recently accepted a position with Catholic Charities, where she will serve her community with compassion, purpose, and the strength she’s carried all along.
Her journey shows that with determination, support, and love as your foundation, you can turn even the most difficult chapters into powerful new beginnings.