Newark, NJ — GI Go Fund recently welcomed Army Veteran, entrepreneur, executive leader, and career coach Cenita Williamson back to the GI Go Fund Veterans Center in Newark to lead a workforce readiness and mentorship session for students from the Irvington School District.

The session focused on helping young people prepare for success long before their first job interview. Through practical discussion and mentorship, students received guidance on professional communication, confidence-building, workplace expectations, career preparation, and the personal habits that help lead to long-term success.

Drawing on more than 20 years of corporate leadership experience, Cenita spoke with students about the skills employers consistently look for in the workplace. While technical skills may help someone get through the door, she emphasized that professionalism, communication, adaptability, reliability, and confidence often determine whether someone succeeds and grows over time.

The workshop reflected the purpose of the GI Go Fund Veterans Center: to serve as a community hub where veterans, families, students, and underserved residents can access mentorship, training, career guidance, and resources that create pathways to long-term economic independence.

“As a veteran, entrepreneur, and executive leader, Cenita’s continued commitment to mentorship is a powerful example of how veterans continue to serve after their military service,” said GI Go Fund Co-Founder and Executive Director Alex Manis. “By sharing her experience and investing directly in young people, she is helping students see opportunities for themselves and prepare for the expectations of the workforce.”

Cenita’s work is also a reminder that workforce development starts early. Preparing young people for future careers is not only about helping them write a resume or practice for an interview. It is also about helping them understand professionalism, build confidence, communicate effectively, and recognize the opportunities available to them.

GI Go Fund thanks Cenita Williamson for continuing to use her leadership and experience to mentor and guide the next generation. GI Go Fund also thanks Nadia Jones-Vassell and the Irvington Board of Education for their partnership and commitment to creating opportunities that empower young people to succeed.

Through programs like this, GI Go Fund remains committed to supporting veteran-led community impact, expanding access to career readiness resources, and helping build stronger pathways to opportunity in Newark and beyond.

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