Former Foster Youth Pursues Citizenship, Education to Help Others

Becoming a U.S. citizen has been a dream for 22-year-old Miatta Joe, a native of Sierra Leone who first experienced foster care at the age of 15.

Her hard work and persistence made that dream a reality, when she officially became an American citizen back in May and prepares to celebrate at her swearing-in ceremony in July.

And as a longtime member of the Franklin County Children Services Youth Advisory Board, she says she'll continue using her determination, education, and impassioned voice to speak for other young people in the child welfare system.

“Being a citizen is really a good thing for me because now I have the right to vote and work inside the government to help people,” Miatta shared, noting that she managed and funded the almost year-long process to become a US citizen on her own. 

“I had to fill out a lot of forms, get a lot of documents, and do a lot of research,” she said. 

Pursing a degree in Human Science at Columbus State Community College, she hopes to start a career in which she can help other youth. “I’m studying the brain so I can learn how it reacts to stuff like the things I went through. So I can help people like me.” 

Coming to America as a child and experiencing significant family trauma, Miatta entered foster care at age 15. She often shares how she lived in multiple placements while dealing with mental health issues. 

Miatta credits Ms. Valerie, whom she met at a group home, with inspiring her to take action to help herself. “She pushed me hard to get a part time job and start doing stuff for myself.” 

“Being busy helped me get over my emotional trauma by distracting myself.”

This newfound self-determination at age 16 led Miatta to become part of the FCCS Youth Advisory Board, which is comprised of young people who either are currently in or have been in foster care. Members provide their insights to the agency’s administration, and being part of the group gives them a sense of empowerment and the ability to represent other FCCS youth by sharing their perspectives.

“We want to change things so the system works better for kids who are involved in it and who are leaving it,” she said. 

Recently, Miatta and some of her fellow YAB members spoke out during a rally at the Ohio Statehouse for House Bill 164 which would create a college scholarship program for former foster youth. 

Miatta credits FCCS staff among those who have helped her pursue her goals. YAB advisors Deric Cobb and Asia Davis “are pushing me hard in life,” she said. “They are the people who will be there for me if I call.” 

“It has been a pleasure working alongside Miatta,” shared Ms. Davis. “She brings a lot of joy, energy, and enthusiasm to the team, and she relishes her role as the senior member of the Youth Advisory Board.”

When asked what she would say to others who have experienced trauma and are involved in the child welfare system, Miatta said: “Work hard, never give up, and keep your head held high. You’re not the only one going through what you’re going through, and people care about you. There’s a bright future ahead.” 

You can learn more about the Youth Advisory Board at www.fccs.us/youth-advisory-council. 

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