Breakthrough Miami

"Being a Breakthrough Miami Scholar has had a huge impact on my journey. The program surrounded me with mentors and peers who pushed me to aim higher and believe in my potential. I gained guidance, support, and opportunities that helped me grow both academically and personally." -Nicholas Oliva-Prado

Congratulations to Breakthrough Miami Scholar, Nicholas Oliva-Prado! 🎓

Graduating from Coral Reef Senior High as an accomplished student leader, Nicholas has had an impressive high school journey filled with excellence, service, and leadership.

While a student at Coral Reef Senior High, Nicholas enrolled in various AP and dual-enrollment courses that allowed him to prepare for future success in law, including advanced courses in Government and Research.

Outside of his student responsibilities, Nicholas remained actively involved in extracurriculars as a member of Speech and Debate, Mock Trial, and 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project. As Treasurer of SkillsUSA, Nicholas leveled up his professional growth and helped organize student involvement initiatives. In addition to his extracurriculars, Nicholas also dedicated time to serving others as a youth group leader at Lifted Church. Additionally, he is an active member of the football team, where he regularly levels up his football skills.

Nicholas’ hard work and leadership earned him recognition as a The Posse Foundation Finalist.

Nicholas is proudly celebrating his new journey as a Panther at Florida International University, where he will major in Political Philosophy. In the future, Nicholas plans to become a practicing lawyer and make a meaningful impact in the legal field and beyond.

Helios Education Foundation Better Make Room Breakthrough Miami Alumni Network The Children's Trust Reach Higher Miami-Dade County Public Schools

"Breakthrough Miami has played a powerful role in shaping my life journey. It became more than just a program. It was a family and safe space where I felt supported and encouraged. Breakthrough inspired me to go after my goals with confidence, teaching me that success comes from dedication, perseverance, and effort." -J’Dorah Petion

Congratulations to Breakthrough Miami Scholar, J’Dorah Petion! 🎓

Graduating from Miami Northwestern Senior High School as an honor roll recipient, J’Dorah has made a lasting impact as a young leader and changemaker within her community.

Defined by her leadership, artistry, and service, J’Dorah has been deeply involved in her community as a member of the PAVAC Magnet Dance Program, Bible Club, and the Yearbook Committee. Extending her leadership, J’Dorah served as the Captain of the Miami Northwestern Girls, Secretary and Treasurer of the Student Council all four years of high school, as Assistant Secretary of the National Honor Society, Treasurer of the National English Honor Society, and Historian for Club Project H.E.R.

Outside of school, J’Dorah has served countless hours as a dance mentor at the Young Contemporary Dance Theater under the direction of Mrs. Traci Young-Byron, helping young students discover joy through dance. As an assistant to Mrs. Nivia Woodard, J’Dorah has used her passion for the arts to positively influence and inspire the next generation of dancers.

J’Dorah is now preparing to pursue majors in Psychology and Dance at Morgan State University and combine the two to create meaningful spaces where artists feel emotionally supported, empowered, and mentally healthy. By combining her love for dance with her passion for psychology, J’Dorah hopes to make a meaningful social impact by advocating for mental wellness within the arts community and mentoring future generations of young performers. She plans to earn a master’s degree in Dance/Movement Therapy and a PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology while continuing to grow as a professional dancer and performer.

Helios Education Foundation Better Make Room Breakthrough Miami The Children's Trust Reach Higher Miami-Dade County Public Schools

"Breakthrough Miami provided the village I needed as a first-generation student. It allowed me to be myself, meet new people, and grow as a person. Breakthrough not only impacted my life's journey, but it helped shape me into who I am today." -Alyna Rodriguez

Congratulations to Breakthrough Miami Scholar, Alyna Rodriguez! 🎓

A proud first-generation student graduating from Coral Gables Senior High, Alyna’s story is one of excellence, drive, and commitment. Looking to build a foundation for her future in computer science and technology, Alyna enrolled in and completed numerous dual-enrollment and Advanced Placement courses related to her field of study, granting her the opportunity to graduate high school with an associate’s degree.

Beyond her studies, Alyna is an active member of her school community. She is a proud member of the Academy of Finance, National Business Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America. Continuing to impact others, Alyna served our Village as a Teaching Assistant and supported recruitment efforts at her high school, where she supported other students on their own educational journeys.

Furthering her service leadership, Alyna served as a Lead Volunteer Changemaker within our Village, dedicating her time to mentoring and supporting other Scholars as they reach academic excellence. She also volunteered at a cancer hospital, helping decorate patient floors to create a more uplifting environment, and participated in efforts to prepare sandwiches for the homeless.

Alyna is now preparing to kickstart her career in Computer Science at Florida International University and is focused on continuing her education, earning scholarships, gaining internships in coding and software development, and becoming a computer software engineer.

Helios Education Foundation Better Make Room Breakthrough Miami Alumni Network The Children's Trust Reach Higher Miami-Dade County Public Schools