Xavi joined Starbridge’s Project ESTEEM in October 2018 while unemployed but filled with ambition. He was ready to work hard and build something better for his life.
After completing pre-workforce training, Xavi landed his first job as a cook at a local restaurant. As he worked, he confided in his Starbridge Navigator, Barb, about his passion for vehicles—his dream was to become a truck or bus driver. Barb encouraged him to stay connected to that goal, so Xavi took jobs at an auto parts store and later at a garage, gaining experience and learning as much as he could.
When he turned 21, Xavi was finally eligible to pursue a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). He studied hard and scheduled permit tests, but due to Covid pandemic-related DMV restrictions and ID issues, he was turned away three times. Like many during the pandemic, Xavi stepped back from the process due to restrictions, but he didn’t give up.
Soon after, he noticed a local school bus company was offering paid training for new drivers. Xavi applied, passed his written test, and began on-the-job training while driving one of the company’s vans. His hard work and resilience paid off: Xavi passed his road test and officially earned his CDL.
Today, Xavi is a proud full-time school bus driver with his own route. His success has already inspired two others to follow their dreams. Raised by a single mother while his father was incarcerated, Xavi hopes his story shows young people that with persistence and support, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Now living in Rochester with his partner of 12 years and their three children, Xavi continues to lead by example—with hope, heart, and hard work.
“Remember that after every storm, there’s sunny days.” – Xavi
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