Ava’s Pathways was born from a moment of truth inside the walls of a women’s correctional facility. 

When our founder, Haseena Shaheed-Jackson—an accomplished author, speaker, and coach—was invited to speak there, she didn’t just deliver a message. She listened. She saw a need. And she felt a calling.

What she witnessed were women full of potential, yet without the tools, resources, or support systems to rebuild their lives. That experience planted the first seed of Ava’s Pathways.

What began as one woman’s vision has grown into a community-driven nonprofit supporting women at every crossroads. Our name reflects the spirit of transformation. Our programs arebdesigned to empower, equip, and uplift women as they navigate change and reclaim their stories.

The videos below show the people behind this work. But this—this is where it began.