Braeden’s Story

Where Belonging Changes Everything

Originally from Detroit, Braeden moved to Atlanta’s westside in 2016, carrying the same hopes many young people do: to find his place, build a future, and feel like he belonged. But before coming to City School Atlanta in seventh grade, school often felt more like something to survive than somewhere to grow. Fights, bullying, and constant disruptions made it difficult to focus, even for a student who had always done well academically.

“Teachers were always stopping class because of fights or confrontations,” he said. “You couldn’t really focus on learning.”

Everything changed when he arrived at City School Atlanta, City of Refuge’s tuition-free, K–12 private school. What stood out first was not just the academics, but the atmosphere. He found family. 

At City School, he discovered more than a classroom. He found teachers and mentors who cared about his future, friends who became like family, and a community that made him feel seen and supported. Free field trips, after-school programs, shared meals, sports, and creative opportunities helped create a sense of belonging that was completely new to him. Over the years, those relationships became deeply personal. Braeden says staff members like Mr. Enlow and Ms. Foley became trusted people he could talk to about life, struggles, and decisions. Their support helped him grow emotionally and gave him confidence in who he was becoming. That growth extended into his faith as well.

From a teacher’s perspective, Braeden stands out as someone who brings joy and encouragement wherever he goes. Over the years, he has matured into a strong leader who younger students naturally look up to. He is known for checking in on others, offering support, and creating a positive environment both inside and outside the classroom. Watching him grow in confidence, pursue his passions, and learn to invest in himself has been one of the most rewarding parts of seeing his journey at City School.

Now, Braeden is stepping into the next chapter with clear goals. He is pursuing an electrician apprenticeship, an opportunity that came through connections made in his church community. He hopes the combination of education and skilled trade experience will give him multiple paths toward success. Outside of school, Braeden works, plays basketball, spends time with friends, and has recently started exploring photography and videography. He loves making people laugh and creating memories with the classmates he has grown up alongside.

Looking back, Braeden sees City of Refuge as a major part of his story, not because it removed every obstacle, but because it gave him stability, encouragement, and people who believed in him when he needed it most.

“Being here gave me people I could lean on, people who actually cared about where I was headed.”

Today, he speaks about the future with confidence. He is eager to learn new skills, pursue a career, and continue becoming the person he believes God is calling him to be. Most of all, he carries something he did not always have before: hope.