Meet Lisa

Lisa graduated from our Winter 2020 class as an empowered, resilient woman! She joined the program looking for work experience, but finished the program with much more – a new support system and sisterhood. She found TWB to be a safe space to feel her emotions and learned how to cope with the trauma of her past. She will continue to grow and share her strength with those around her. Read more about Lisa’s story below!

What circumstances brought you to where you were before you joined Together We Bake?

Lisa: I was working and still at Mr. Wash. Ms. Elyse from Inova told me about Together We Bake and said it would be good for me and I could learn alot from it.

What inspired you to apply to Together We Bake?

Lisa: I was inspired to apply to Together We Bake in the hopes to work on my physical and emotional self, work towards my goals, and get the most out of the classes they provide.

How has Together We Bake changed your perspective on life?

Lisa: Together We Bake has changed my perspective on life. It’s helped me become more comfortable with being open and speaking out loud and engaging with people.

Has someone at Together We Bake (a fellow participant, a Volunteer, an instructor, etc.) had a particular influence on you?

Lisa: Each and every woman at TWB has influenced my life for the better.

How would you describe Together We Bake?

Lisa: Together We Bake is a comprehensive workforce training and personal development program for women in need of a second chance. They help women gain self confidence and transferable workforce skills.

What do you feel is the most valuable thing Together We Bake does?

Lisa: Empowerment is the most valuable thing TWB does for women.

What is the most valuable thing you learned at Together We Bake?

Lisa: I learned to pay attention and listen, not only to the other women in the program, but also to myself.

Do you have any specific memories of experience at Together We Bake?

Lisa: My favorite memory is when a guest baker came and taught us how to make strawberry shortcake from scratch. It was so much fun to try something new and work together as a team.

What was the most challenging thing about the program? How did you overcome that challenge?

Lisa: Coming to class and being on time was the biggest challenge I faced, but I did it!

What is something you are proud of that you achieved because of your participation in Together We Bake?

Lisa: I’m proud that I learned that everything I do in life is my choice. No one is in control of my life or actions but me. 

What advice do you have for women considering applying to Together We Bake?

Lisa: Take these courses seriously at TWB. They are here to help us in any way they can, and they really care for us. Just do it – you have nothing to lose!