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Family of scholars: The Bernadel siblings' Wayfind program journey

A life-changing opportunity

Angeliya Bernadel, a ninth-grader at Sun Valley High, and her twin sisters, Jamiya and Jeaniya, eighth-graders at Sun Valley Middle, are proud Wayfind Scholars. For the Bernadel siblings, this program is opening doors they never thought were possible.

Wayfind, a partnership between UCPS and Wingate University, is a free college-access program designed to help middle and high school students from diverse backgrounds prepare for college. Students are paired with mentors from Wingate University who provide guidance, workshops and support. Those who complete the program, apply to Wingate University, and are accepted can receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship.

The program is open to eighth-graders at East Union, Sun Valley, Porter Ridge and the Health Science Academy (HSA) at Monroe Middle School. Students continue in Wayfind at Forest Hills, Sun Valley, Porter Ridge and Monroe high schools.

Angeliya vividly recalls how her Wayfind journey began last year. “I applied because I thought it was something else,” she said. “Then I realized it was for a scholarship, and I thought, ‘Why not?’” When she got the news the day before her birthday, her heart raced with disbelief. “It felt like the best birthday surprise ever,” she laughed. Angeliya called her mother, who was overjoyed when she realized the impact of the news. “She couldn’t believe it. She was so happy.”

The excitement doubled this year when her twin sisters, Jamiya and Jeaniya, were accepted into the program. “I thought only one of them might get it,” Angeliya shared. “But when they both got in, it was amazing. Now, all three of us have this incredible opportunity.”

When the twins found out the news, their reactions were different. “I was really happy with the news, but I didn’t want to show it too much,” Jamiya said, her calm demeanor masking her excitement. “I know this program will help me stay focused on my dreams.” 

Jeaniya couldn’t contain her joy. “As soon as they told me, I couldn’t believe it. I was already heading to tell my sister the good news,” she said. “This is just the beginning for all of us. We have so much to look forward to.”

A financial weight lifted

For the Bernadel family, the financial burden of college was always a concern. Despite working hard to support their daughters, their parents always worried about how they would afford higher education. “Now, with this program, they don’t have to worry. It’s a huge relief for them,” said Angeliya. 

Angeliya, who dreams of becoming a neonatal nurse, is particularly grateful for this experience. “I love babies, and I’ve always wanted to work with them,” she said. “Knowing I can go to college without my parents having to pay is amazing. It feels like my dream is within reach.”

Jeaniya and Jamiya also have big dreams. Jeaniya hopes to work in nursing, while Jamiya is interested in business. Both are excited about their future, knowing Wayfind is paving the way for a debt-free college experience.

Their parents are proud of each of them. Their mom, Phabiola Pierre, sees this as a huge blessing. "I am so happy my girls have the opportunity for this scholarship because their dad and I didn't have that. That is why we feel so blessed that our children were selected."

Mentorship and growth

Wayfind is more than just a scholarship program. It offers mentorship to help students grow academically and personally. Angeliya credits her mentor for helping her navigate high school life, from managing time to discussing mental health. “We talk about everything—mental health, public speaking and time management,” she shared. “One tip that stuck with me was to balance work and phone time: five minutes on my phone, then 15 minutes of schoolwork. It’s helped me stay focused.”

The twins also look forward to the Wayfind summer camps and workshops. Angeliya has shared her excitement with them, describing activities like yoga, nature walks and team-building exercises. “They’re excited to see what it’s like,” Angeliya said. “They always say it’s not fair when I bring something home from mentoring.”

Focused on the future and staying close-knit

The Bernadel siblings are determined to stay focused on their education, keep their grades up, and remain active in extracurriculars to ensure success in high school and beyond. “This scholarship has given us a clear path, and we’re committed to making the most of it,” Jamiya said.

Their strong, supportive bond will continue to guide them through high school and college. “Even though Angeliya will go to college first, we’ll follow a year later,” Jeaniya said, smiling. “It’s comforting to know we’ll always have each other, no matter what.”

With Wayfind's support, the Bernadel sisters are not just dreaming—they are building a future where their aspirations become reality.

01/23/2025