By CW, The Freelancer
At the Jackie Robinson YMCA in southeastern San Diego, something special happened May 1 and 2, 2026. The Thrive & Shine Glam Experience brought together style, support, and real opportunities for local high school students getting ready for prom.
Students from San Diego High School, Madison High School, Morse High School, Lincoln High School, Mission Bay High School, and Hoover High School walked into an environment that felt exciting, welcoming, and full of energy. It was more than just getting ready for prom. It was about feeling confident and thinking about the future.
The event was made possible by Porche Brown, Founder of Thrive & Shine Academy; JIREH Providers; 2026 Prom Makeover organizer, Kristy Randolph; the San Diego City College Cosmetology Program; Paul Mitchell The School San Diego; Jackie Robinson YMCA; and Just in Time for Foster Youth. Everyone involved had the same goal: Make sure every student feels supported and ready for what comes next.
Students got to pick out full prom outfits, including dresses, tuxedos, and shoes. Volunteers helped them find looks that matched their personality and made them feel good. After that, they moved on to hair and makeup, where professionals and students worked together to give everyone a polished look.
Volunteers like Tomiko Manning, Raquel Johannes, Patrika Bellinger, Sadie Harrison, Sienna Camacho, Anita Lewis, Trazana Jefferson, Tiara Reynolds, Zenobia Preston, and Willie Hamilton helped create a positive and fun space. There was music playing, people laughing, and a lot of encouragement going around.
The event was not just about looking good. Almost every student received a $600 scholarship, which can help with college or training after high school. Students also learned about different paths they can take, including beauty school, community college, and trade programs.
For a lot of students, this was their first time talking directly with professionals in those fields. What started as a simple makeover turned into real conversations about careers and goals.
By the end of the weekend, students walked out not just to be ready for prom, but feeling more confident about their future. Events like this show what can happen when a community comes together to support its youth.
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