In 2011, when Ahsiyah discovered she was losing her vision at 22, her world changed dramatically. Diagnosed with diabetes and experiencing diabetic retinopathy, she knew there would be changes she needed to make. But it wasn’t until 2020 when she got divorced that she realized she needed to learn how to live as a blind person. She needed to reimagine her future..
Determined to create a better life for herself and her two young children, Ahsiyah took bold steps. Her path led her to the CORE program, where she discovered a transformative opportunity.
The first day she picked up a white cane during her BISM tour, she knew BISM would provide the foundation for her success. “It was an amazing feeling to move without a guide,” Ahsiyah recalls.
The program gave her more than just travel skills—it provided a sense of belonging she had never experienced before. Having never met another blind person previously, she found herself surrounded by a supportive community of people with diverse backgrounds.
Ahsiyah eagerly embraced the program’s challenges. She was particularly excited about Tech and Wood Shop classes, approaching each opportunity with determination. Her motivation was clear: to provide the best possible future for her children. During her time at CORE, she not only learned critical life skills but also honed her ability to support and inspire other students.
Her personal experiences influenced her academic and professional aspirations. Growing up in a cult and witnessing her father’s struggle with addiction, Ahsiyah developed a passion for understanding human behavior. She is now pursuing a degree in addiction rehabilitation psychology, with the goal of becoming an interventionist and helping others navigate difficult life experiences.
After completing the CORE program, Ahsiyah worked at Amazon to support her family while continuing her education. The skills and confidence she gained at BISM grounded her personal and professional growth. Travel and independence became her newfound joys, with activities like hiking, archery, and taking part in her community becoming integral to her life.
BISM gave Ahsiyah the confidence to live as a blind person. Her story shows that with the right support and mindset, challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth.
