Single Mother of the Year: Celebrating Strength, Resilience & Leadership

The 2025 Single Mother of the Year category honored women who balance motherhood, career growth, and personal development while overcoming significant challenges. These finalists exemplify determination, perseverance, and the power of lifting up others along the way.

Kassundra Evans — IT Analyst, Cybersecurity & GRC | Winner

Kassundra’s journey into technology began with a leap of faith. She relocated across the country with her one-year-old son, stepping into the unknown with only determination and hope. That bold move marked the start of a path filled with growth and new opportunities.

Since then, she has completed the WIT Single Mothers Program, secured her role as an IT Analyst in cybersecurity and GRC, and is working toward her CompTIA Security+ certification. Her long-term goal is to become a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Every achievement carries meaning not only for her career, but for her son, showing him the power of perseverance. WIT connected her to professional opportunities, offered mentorship, and provided a supportive community—resources she now pays forward through mentorship and community service.

“Every accomplishment has been deeply meaningful—not just for me, but for my son. I’ve built a life that shows him what happens when you refuse to give up.”

Cheliya Green — Armed Service Technician, Loomis | Finalist

Cheliya’s career combines precision, problem-solving, and a growing passion for cybersecurity. As an Armed Service Technician, she manages a high-stakes route handling cash pickups, transport, and ATM refills—each with dozens of applications and access codes. One small mistake can reset an entire transaction.

Through this work, Cheliya gained firsthand insight into system vulnerabilities, inspiring her pursuit of cybersecurity. She is currently working toward her degree in cybersecurity and CompTIA Security+ certification, aiming for entry-level roles where she can apply her knowledge and experience.

A graduate of the WIT Single Mothers Program, Cheliya credits WIT with giving her clarity, confidence, and a path forward. She dreams of creating a nonprofit to equip at-risk youth with tools to succeed in tech and life.

“Being on the front lines of cash logistics has shown me how critical secure systems are. WIT helped me gain the confidence and direction to pursue a career in cybersecurity, where I can make a real impact.”

Laura Newberry-Henderson — Investigation Specialist, Amazon | Finalist

Laura’s path has been shaped by resilience and determination. As a mother and Investigation Specialist at Amazon, she balances family life while advancing a career in digital forensics and cybersecurity. Along the way, she overcame personal challenges, including temporary homelessness, and completed the WIT Single Mothers Program in the top half of her cohort.

Earning her bachelor’s degree after ten years of starting and stopping due to life circumstances exemplifies her perseverance. Laura has also worked for Fortune 500 companies including PNC, JP Morgan Chase, Geico, and now Amazon, building the foundation for her career in digital forensics.

Through WIT, Laura gained mentorship, essential skills, and community support—tools that have fueled her mission to protect data, combat cyber threats, and serve as a role model for her children.

“I want my children to see that staying committed to your goals, even when life gets hard, can lead to real achievement. Every step forward is an example of perseverance, resilience, and hope.”

Explore the rest of our 2025 WIT Awards Spotlight Series:

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