About Us

Step Forward Academy is
a 501c3 Nonprofit

We provide coaching, training and resources at no cost* to help people accomplish their career goals.

Vision

Creating pathways for careers and calling for all.

Mission

Empower individuals to achieve long-term career success and financial stability through personalized coaching, skills training, and access to resources that help them secure and sustain living-wage employment.

Purpose

Building financially sustainable futures through career development.

Our Story

Step Forward Academy was started by Ryan Wong and Sophia Alexander in 2020. Growing up in Orange County, Ryan was blessed to have a strong family support system that helped prepare him for a successful career. After graduating from college and working in tech for several years in the Bay area, Ryan began volunteering as a mentor for young people. Through that experience he discovered a passion for service that began to reshape his plans for the future.

Eventually, Ryan and his family moved back to the Orange County area and both began working in local nonprofits. Through his work serving those in addiction recovery, Ryan was introduced to Sophia Alexander, a retired professional with a passion for philanthropy. Soon after, they began to envision a program that could help adults with low wages break the cycle of poverty and create financial sustainability.

Over the past two years, a small team of people has banded together to create a program that is transforming lives one mentorship at a time! Read our FAQ to learn more about our career development program.