I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout my Debutante journey. It has been a rewarding experience rooted in tradition and celebration.

To the generous donors and supporters, thank you for investing in my participation and believing in the purpose and legacy of this program. Your contributions uplifted the mission of the Oakland Bay Area Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and its dedication to empowering young women.

I am also thankful for the guidance, dedication, and support of my sponsor, Katie Allen, as well as the Debutante Committee and the many volunteers who tirelessly devoted their time to preparing me for this unique experience.

To my fellow Debutantes, sharing this journey with you has been both inspiring and memorable. The friendships we strengthened and the experiences we shared will remain with me long after the Cotillion. I am proud to stand alongside such talented, intelligent, and compassionate young women.

Thank you to my escort, Joseph Oke, and his parents, Oluseun and Zainabu Oke, for your support throughout this journey. Your willingness to “share Joseph” during this experience contributed greatly to making this milestone all the more enjoyable.

My deepest love and appreciation go to my family and close friends. God has blessed me with your unwavering encouragement, insight, and steadfast presence. I am especially thankful to my mother (DeShonne) and grandmother (DyAnn) for the many ways you helped make my participation possible, alongside the constant devotion of my father (Michael) and support of my entire family. Thank you all for celebrating this special moment with me, and for continually inspiring me to strive for excellence in everything that I do.