Celebrating Friends of the Children - New York Graduates: Dayrone & Astou

This month, we celebrate two out of the 11 incredible graduates of Friends of the Children – New York: Dayrone and Astou, who’ve grown with us for 12+ years.

At 18, Dayrone is stepping into the workforce with big dreams in design and entrepreneurship. Earning his driver’s license was a turning point - symbolizing independence and his next adventure beyond NYC. With the guidance of his mentor Troy, Dayrone has become a driven and creative young man and is ready to build his own path.

Astou joined Friends - New York at age 6 and just graduated from Manhattan Early College School for Advertising. Up next, she is enrolled at Guttman Community College to pursue entrepreneurship, fashion, and cosmetology. With the steady support of her mentor Shaunti, she’s blossomed into a leader who brings warmth and connection wherever she goes.

“We are so proud of these 11 incredible young adults. They are a testament to what’s possible when we invest in children from an early age —they are stepping into the future as true trailblazers," says Friends - New York Executive Director Ramon Reyes. "Graduating high school is a monumental achievement in any life, and what makes this milestone even more extraordinary is how they accomplished this despite challenges and obstacles—And now, they have Friends for life.”

Congratulations, graduates!