Nubian Directions II
Stories of Impact
Hear directly from the students, families, and communities shaped by Nubian Directions II.
Through education, mentoring, and paid training, our students go on to graduate, earn certifications, build careers, and give back. Every story here is a reminder of why this work matters.
Christen Irizarry
Regional Manager · Former Nubian Directions II Program Participant
When I came to Nubian Directions II, I knew I was ready to work — I just needed someone to believe in me while I did it. Balancing my responsibilities with my goals wasn't easy, but I showed up every day. Every class, every mentor session, every opportunity they put in front of me, I took it.
Somewhere along the way, I changed. My confidence grew right alongside my skills. The same persistence that got me through the hard weeks started opening doors — new credentials, new connections, and a clearer picture of the future I wanted to build for myself.
Today, I'm a regional manager. I lead teams, make decisions, and carry the lessons I learned at Nubian Directions II into every room I walk into. Looking back, I can see the whole arc — from a young woman looking for her chance to a leader others look up to.
My story is still being written, and Nubian Directions II will always be part of it. I'm proof of what happens when young people get real support and real opportunity: we rise.
Giuseppe Lombardi
Former YouthBuild Student & NDI Marketing and Media Coordinator
A former YouthBuild student, Giuseppe Lombardi worked as our Marketing and Media Coordinator. He graduated from Dutchess Community College Summa Cum Laude on May 16, 2025 with a 3.97 GPA. He has received several recognition awards, including the DUE Awards for Academic Excellence – Computer Science; the EOP Award for Student Excellence; the President's List Award for his 3.97 GPA; a nomination for Commencement Speaker; and the MCS Foundation Computer Science Award.