A Journey of Empowerment Begins

A Standing Ovation for Our LDI Graduates!

At Rockford Housing Authority, we believe in transformation—and today, we proudly celebrate six individuals who’ve completed their 12-week journey with the LifeForce Development Institute (LDI). This milestone marks more than just a certificate—it symbolizes growth, resilience, and the start of something truly powerful.

Meet the Graduates: The Next Chapter

Please join us in honoring these driven and inspiring individuals and learn what exciting paths they’re now pursuing:

  1. Markisha Walker
    Markisha used the skills and confidence gained from LDI to secure a new role as a Community Coach at RHA. She’s now a mentor for others beginning their own journeys, paying it forward through leadership and guidance.
  2. Natasha Adams
    Inspired by her growth at LDI, Natasha is now preparing to enroll in school to further her education and expand her career opportunities.
  3. Saryea Lindsey
    With a heart for helping others, Saryea is following her passion and plans to continue her path in the nursing field, building on the foundation she built during the program.
  4. Kapria Collins
    Driven by her LDI experience, Kapria is taking the next step toward her goals by pursuing further education in the medical field.
  5. Derrick Townsend
    Derrick has discovered renewed purpose and commitment and is continuing in the job he currently holds, using the leadership and communication skills honed at LDI.
  6. Darrell Love
    Darrell is channeling his creativity and technical interests into a new goal—he is actively preparing to begin a career in computer coding, with aspirations of working in the gaming industry.

Each graduate has committed to deep personal development, career readiness, and community leadership. Their courage and perseverance inspire all of us at RHA.

Leadership and Learning at the Core

The event was elevated by Keynote Speaker Keyana Coleman, RHA Board Commissioner, who offered wisdom and encouragement for the path ahead. Under the vision of Dean Carandus Brown, LDI has become a nurturing space where potential meets purpose. Chief Operating Officer Ms. Odessa Walker of Rockford Housing Authority planted the seeds of Life force Development.

The backbone of this program is our incredible team of instructors, who pour their heart into every lesson:

  • Amy Byrd
  • Elias Soria
  • Justin Francis
  • Breanna Bailey
  • Nick Bowers
  • Stephanie Summers

Their mentorship created the supportive, empowering environment our graduates thrived in.

This Is Just the Beginning

These graduates leave LDI not just with knowledge, but with vision. They’ve learned to dream bigger, speak louder, and believe in themselves more deeply than ever before. As they step into new opportunities, careers, and personal achievements, we stand behind them with pride.

Congratulations to our 2025 LDI Graduates! Your commitment is inspiring, your energy is powerful, and your future is bright. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.