Trusting the Journey: DeVon Blackwell’s Reflections on Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

“When I was your age, I wondered if I was good enough. I doubted myself. I felt like my dreams were too big. But I kept going—and I want you to know you can, too.”

DeVon Blackwell knows what it’s like to struggle. Growing up, he often felt like he was carrying the world on his shoulders, wondering if anyone understood him or believed in his dreams. He remembers walking into classrooms or community spaces and hoping someone would see past his mistakes and remind him he had potential. He remembers wishing someone would look him in the eye and tell him he mattered. That his dreams weren’t too big. That he had everything he needed inside him.

Today, DeVon shows up every day for students at Lead the Way because he knows what a difference it makes when someone believes in you. He understands that many of our students feel overwhelmed by expectations at school, pressures at home, or doubts about their future. He’s committed to making sure they know they’re not alone—that there’s always someone in their corner.

Listening First, Leading Second

Every morning, DeVon shows up not just to teach, but to listen—to really hear what students are going through. He believes the most important thing adults can do for young people is to give them space to speak their minds and share what’s in their hearts. DeVon makes time for the tough conversations. He sits with students when they’re upset, encourages them when they’re afraid, and celebrates with them when they succeed.

He knows real change starts when kids feel heard. He remembers how powerful it felt the first time an adult listened to him without judgment—and he wants every student he meets to experience that sense of being seen and understood.

Building Confidence, One Conversation at a Time

DeVon has seen students light up when they realize someone truly believes in them. He’s watched quiet kids find their voices, teens who were ready to give up find a reason to try again, and families who felt alone finally feel supported. He believes confidence doesn’t happen overnight—it grows through every conversation where a student feels respected and valued.

He celebrates every small victory, because he knows each step forward is a sign of strength. Whether it’s a student raising their hand in class for the first time, speaking up about their goals, or deciding to try something new, DeVon is there to cheer them on.

DeVon’s Message for Students

“Your journey is yours,” he reminds students. “It’s okay if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s. Mistakes don’t mean you’re lost; they mean you’re growing.” And he tells parents the same: “Your encouragement matters more than you think. Keep believing in your child, even on the hard days.”

Through his work at Lead the Way, DeVon Blackwell proves that trusting the process—and helping students trust themselves—can open doors no one thought possible. Every day, he reminds students they are stronger than their doubts, braver than their fears, and more capable than they ever imagined. His journey is proof that with faith, perseverance, and support, anyone can turn their dreams into reality—and he wants every student to know that their story is still being written, and their future is full of possibility.