Cheriss Mixon

Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Program

Nominated in 2016

Cheriss Mixon has proven to be an exemplary student. She is highly motivated and focused on achieving her goals. Growing up in Compton, California, she was inspired to become a chef while watching her father cook every day for the family. Her goal is to become a chef in her own community. She wants to teach low income youth how to cook wholesome meals.

At the age of seventeen, her dreams were sidetracked. She found herself in an abusive relationship with the father of her two oldest sons. Out of fear, she stayed in this relationship for three years. She recounts that this was very dark time in her life in which she had very low self-esteem, felt worthless, and had little drive or motivation.

When she finally had the courage to leave, she did and never looked back. She went back to school and received her high school diploma. Now, at 27 years old, she is enrolled in the culinary arts program at Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Program and is on track to receive her certificate in culinary arts and baking. She has accomplished all of this while raising four young boys as a single mother. She states her motivation and strength come from her children.

On top of all of her responsibilities, she finds time to help prepare and serve food to the homeless through organizations in her community. She is a hard working student that is committed to learning. She has impeccable attendance and makes efficient use of her time in class. She doesn’t hesitate or second guess her choices, she leans into her learning and her goals.

Cheriss’ dream is to open a restaurant. She has acquired many skills and techniques through the culinary arts program at Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Program, and she is well on her way to achieving that goal. She is expected to complete the Culinary Arts program in June 2016.