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Malaika’s Story: The Greatest Graduation Gift in Action

A gift that honors everyone who helped her get there

Malaika holding her certificate, standing beside one of her sponsors, Dr. Barry Steinmetz, and the hand-drawn portrait we created for him. Every person who played a role in Malaika’s journey was included—doctors, teachers, family, and community leaders—each captured in a hand-drawn portrait that sits alongside hers on the certificate.

Malaika with her certificate and sponsor

Dr. Steinmetz received his own copy of the certificate and portrait as a personal thank you.

For him, it wasn’t just a memento. It was recognition that his time, care, and encouragement mattered in helping Malaika cross the finish line.

Mayor of Riverside signing the certificate

Recognized by the city and her schools

The Mayor of Riverside personally signed Malaika’s certificate, adding an official stamp of recognition from the city she grew up in. As the first UC Riverside graduate to become Mayor of Riverside, she also requested her own certificates from Notre Dame High School and UC Riverside, both serial numbered 001. These certificates now mark the beginning of what we call the school’s “Walk of Fame”—a record of graduates whose stories deserve to be remembered.

Malaika’s principal at Cerritos High was so impressed by the concept

that she immediately offered to connect us with the school’s alumni association. She saw how this could help the school celebrate past and future graduates while giving alumni a tangible way to stay involved. She’s also requested her own certificates, so her contribution to Malaika’s journey won’t be forgotten.

Signed certificate and portrait at the party

A keepsake that brings people together

At Malaika’s graduation party, the certificate and portrait weren’t just displayed—they became part of the celebration. Guests signed both pieces, leaving messages of encouragement, pride, and love. What started as a gift for Malaika became a shared experience for everyone in the room. Today, it’s a keepsake she can look back on and remember exactly who stood with her.

More than a gift—it’s a legacy and a launchpad

This certificate tells Malaika’s full story: her own journey, her sister, both sets of parents and grandparents, and hand-drawn portraits of her great-grandparents and great-great-grandparent. It connects generations and shows the lineage of effort, sacrifice, and support behind her success.

By sharing that story, Malaika raised $5,000 in a single month through 10 individual sponsors and one corporate sponsor. They didn’t just contribute money—they became part of her narrative and invested in what comes next for her.