When Hayley first joined Juma, she was juggling more than most people her age. As a young mother navigating housing instability, every day brought a new challenge. She wanted something steady, something that would help her build a better life for herself and her child. When she heard about Juma’s YouthConnect Program and the opportunities it offers, she saw a chance to take a step toward that future.
From the moment she started, Hayley discovered that Juma was more than just a job. It was a team that believed in her and offered the trust and flexibility she needed. “Juma helped me balance my time,” Hayley recalls. “They provided the support I needed to be fully present…That kind of trust meant a lot to me.”
Her determination didn’t go unnoticed. Within months, Hayley’s reliability and calm leadership earned her a promotion to Cart Lead, a role where she began guiding other young people through their first work experiences. “Last year I coachedI a [Juma] youth, and I noticed in her body language and facial expressions that she was struggling,” Hayley shares. “I asked her what she needed at that moment, and she said a break, so I gave her one. Juma continues to teach me to listen and be there for the youth.”
As she gained confidence, Hayley’s skills blossomed. This year, she was promoted again and now serves as Assistant Enterprise Manager at Juma Seattle. Her new role tested her in new ways, especially during the whirlwind of the American League Championship Series, when thousands of fans filled T-Mobile Park and her youth crew had to keep everything running smoothly. Hayley rose to the occasion, coordinating her crew with calm focus and ensuring both staff and fans had a great experience.
Now, Hayley is looking ahead. She’s discovered that she truly thrives as a leader and finds joy in helping others grow. At Juma, she wants to keep developing her leadership skills and continue mentoring young people stepping into their first jobs.
Hayley plans to continue building her career at Juma while saving for school. She’s excited to keep learning – both in and out of the workplace – and to lead with the same empathy, patience, and strength that her Juma mentors have shown her.
Her story reflects the heart of Juma’s mission – proof that when young people are trusted, supported, and empowered, they not only build better futures for themselves but also lift others along the way.
