Nevaeh Jackson-Winters

I lost my grandfather, Larray V. Jackson Street, Dr., during a very difficult period in my life. Known to many by his title, to me he was simply my grandpa. I came here to share his story and let you know about the man who meant so much to me. Rather than allowing this loss to become something negative, I have chosen to turn it into something positive—something that continues to inspire and guide me every day. My grandfather was from Mississippi. during the time of segregation. He came to Madison and built a life for himself and his family despite all odds. He owned land, was a pastor, married to a beautiful woman—my grandma—and raised a big, loving family. My grandpa was a very influential man in Madison, WI, always giving back to the community, whether through financial support or simply offering words of encouragement. Until the very end, he wanted to continue helping the community. He was living proof that no matter where you come from or your background, you can build a meaningful life for yourself even through a time where you seem like you can’t win. My grandpa’s death will not be in vain. Every day, I will strive to live the kind of life he lived and be a better version of myself.

Never thought I would meet Barack Obama, but here we are. 👀🙃 Thank you to @satyaformadison for sending me the photo.📸💙

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families Graduation for foster youth: I received the honor of being awarded the 2024 Champion of Change. Thank you to everyone in my life for their continuous support. Tags 🏷️ #foryoupage #foryou #fyp #tonyevers #wisconsindepartmentofchildrenandfamilies #fostercareyouth #fostercare #gradution #wisconsin #madisonwi

I don’t really like to post about my work life, but today was Staff Day for the library, and honestly, the library saved me. I was dealing with one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to navigate aging out of foster care, housing instability, What felt like feeling completely alone in the process. During a time in my life where I felt uncertain about everything, the library became a place where I felt safe, supported, and seen. Being at the library gave me a sense of community when I really needed one. I made genuine friendships, learned more about myself and my boundaries, and realized that social work was the career for me. It’s the best job I’ve ever had, and I can say that confidently. The people there are truly amazing. I’ve had the chance to meet so many different people, hear different perspectives, and connect with all kinds of walks of life. Every day reminds me how important community and kindness really are. And on top of all that, I get to be surrounded by books, learning, and creativity every day. So, happy Staff Day to all the library folks. You may not always realize the impact you have on people, but sometimes a library becomes more than just a workplace or a building it’s a place people can call home.

The Black Center being built and seeing its grand opening meant so much to me. I met amazing people, saw beautiful art, and even got to showcase my photography work. So grateful for the support and the models who helped bring this vision to life. #Blackexcellence

At Youth Services Conference I had the opportunity to showcase artwork we created through the Youth Advisory Council for foster youth. A fingerprint made of words that reflects the resilience, stories, and lived experiences within the foster care system. Also pop up to @healthehoodmke on May 30th 😎

Nothing but good vibes at the spring career fair 🎉 Great people, great energy, and lots of Polaroid photos 📸✨ Thanks to everyone who came!

I had the incredible honor of speaking at the Urban Triage Seen and Unseen event about homelessness in Madison, WI. Homelessness especially among youth who age out of foster care is an issue. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story and help raise awareness about the many young people who age out of foster care often end up experiencing homelessness. 📸: Joshua Jacobson

First time seeing Hamilton—what a show. Such an amazing performance and so greatful to see it live. I cried at the end…🥲

I can’t even begin to explain what the year 2025 has been like. Although I’m glad it’s over, it did come with some good memories. I aged out of foster care, moved out, moved back in, and then moved out again. I started a new job that I actually enjoy. Over the summer, I interned with Lieutenant Governor Sarah Rodriguez and had the opportunity to take photos around Wisconsin, which was a dream come true. I even took my first wedding photos at a courthouse, which was amazing. I also took my first sports photos, which I never thought I would do, but I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. I got to work with organizations like @gsafe and take photos for Madison College as well. I work alongside Hali and photograph her and Landon’s brand, @emp.our I don’t know what 2026 is going to bring, but I do know that I made it through this year, and it was probably one of the hardest years I’ve experienced. I went through a lot of loss and a lot of growth, but I’m excited for what this next year will bring and the new experiences ahead. I’m thankful for everyone who was part of my 2025, and I’m looking forward to the new people who are entering my life. Thank you to everyone who followed along on this journey. (: P.S. A special thanks to organizations like @openmadison , @gsafe , @danecountyiyouth , and @urbantriage for making my transition out of foster care as smooth as possible.

I’m 20!!! If you told my 7-year-old self that I would make it this far and accomplish more than they could ever imagine, they would be shocked. Being 19 was filled with emotions, sadness, and sacrifice, but it shaped me into someone wiser and stronger than ever. As I enter my 20s, I want to live life to the fullest and continue taking things one step at a time. I’m incredibly deeply grateful to be turning 20, and I hope to celebrate many more birthdays to come to continue showing my younger self life is worth living.❤️

No king Protest! This what democracy looks like. 👍🏽💛