What do skilled trades, architecture, and business have in common? They are all about building things including structures, ideas, and opportunities. According to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, skilled trades positions alone will account for about 47,000 annual job openings in our state through 2028. Meet Zion, Ethan, and Don’Yale, three DBG grads who have each found different and inspiring ways to build bright futures.
Zion Dolly: Designing His Future and Leading by Example
Zion Dolly is a graduate of University Prep Art & Design, a school that built upon his creative passion and introduced him to architecture. But he says it was DBG that gave him a second home and helped cultivate a sense of belief in his future.
“DBG gave me big brothers [the older students in the program] when I was younger,” Zion says. “Now I’m that older kid, trying to be a role model for the next generation.”
His commitment has not gone unnoticed. When asked about an experience that stands out at DBG, Zion highlights a public speaking opportunity at the UnGala fundraising event, a moment that led to something even bigger, an invitation to attend an international youth leadership conference in London, hosted by the organization In Place of War. Their mission is, “[to] enable grassroots change-makers in music, theatre and across the arts to transform a culture of violence and suffering into hope, opportunity and freedom.”
“It was great to experience another culture. It was important to see how youth from different sides of the world still connect, even when we’re so far apart,” he says.
Through DBG, Zion also had the opportunity to further explore his dream career of architecture. He attended summer programs at both Lawrence Tech University and the University of Michigan, studying with undergraduate students and staying in dorms to experience college life.
“DBG exposed me to opportunities I never even imagined,” he says.
Zion plans to attend Bowling Green University and major in architecture this fall.
Ethan Watts: A Master Electrician in the Making
Ethan Watts says DBG helped him find his voice, build confidence, identify passions, and clarify his future.
“DBG taught me to be open-minded, to be a listener and a learner,” he says.
During his time at DBG, Ethan also grew academically. He credits study time and tutors for helping him stay on track and develop confidence in his abilities. Beyond academics, Ethan tried new experiences like tubing during a camping trip, something he says was far outside of his comfort zone.
“It was crazy fun, it helped me want to try new things,” he says.
Ethan also found a love for rugby, playing alongside a friend he met at DBG. That friendship led him to switch high schools, something he says opened the door to additional friendships and connections.
A major turning point in Ethan’s future came last summer when he took a construction job. There, he met electricians who taught him how to install outlets, and he quickly discovered a love for working with his hands. That opened his eyes to an exciting future.
Now, Ethan plans to attend Southeast Michigan Construction Academy and enroll in a four year apprenticeship program to become a master electrician. His proficiency in algebra helped fuel his new goal and prepare him for the technical work ahead.
Don’Yale Sharpe: From Rugby to Running a Business
Don’Yale Sharpe is a standout in rugby and on the football field. He’s so good, in fact, the Detroit Loyola graduate is preparing to attend college with a rugby scholarship that covers nearly his full tuition. But athletics are just one aspect of his success. Don’Yale tells us he’s come a long way with academics and building social emotional skills since joining DBG in sixth grade.
“The mentors didn’t just help me with homework, they talked with me, listened, and taught me lessons that stuck,” he says.
That ongoing support gave him a sense of stability and belonging, something he says was key to staying focused, especially as schoolwork became more challenging. Looking back, one of his favorite DBG memories happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, when DBG stayed open while much of the world shut down.
“We were still able to go outside, play football, and see people even with masks. That meant a lot when other kids were stuck inside,” he recalls.
As for his career goals, Don’Yale has a strong interest in finance and business. Thanks to a school-based work study program, he’s gaining experience at the General Motors building downtown, where he helps manage accounts and transfers.
Don’Yale is committed to Aquinas College near Grand Rapids to study business.
Congratulations to Zion, Ethan, and Don’Yale, and the entire DBG Class of 2025, including Malek Abdullah who plans to attend Henry Ford College and study construction management. Watching you all grow has been an honor, and we cannot wait to see you continue your academic and career journeys. Your DBG family will be right there with you along the way.