Meet the Mom & Son Who Overcame Homelessness to Graduate College Together

Sponsored by JCPenney | Jennifer Hudson wants you to know about the inspiring story of a mom and son who overcame obstacles together to achieve their dreams of graduating college — together!

Jennifer welcomed Indya Thomas and Kamau Gomes to “The Jennifer Hudson Show” to share their amazing journey from living in a homeless shelter to earning their college degrees at the same time.

This past May, Kamau and his mom, Indya, made headlines for graduating from Georgia State University on the same day. Indya earned a bachelor’s degree after majoring in marketing and minoring in hospitality, while Kamau earned an associate degree from his dual enrollment at Georgia State through DeKalb County Early College Academy.

Graduating with her son was a “full-circle moment” for Indya, who welcomed her son Kamau when she was a teenager. At age 17, Indya gave up full-ride college scholarships and her dream of pursuing higher education so she could focus on raising her son.

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Indya was kicked out of her home by her parents, who didn’t approve of her being a teen mom. The first few years of Kamau’s life were spent in a shelter. Indya said they started with everything against them, so to be able to graduate together was an unforgettable moment.

Kamau credited his mom for his success and said he wouldn’t be here without the struggles they shared together. He said the decision his mom made to have him as a teenager was so selfless, and he is forever grateful to be her son.

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Kamau and Indya hope their story inspires others and shows that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

To help pay off student loans, Jennifer surprised Kamau and Indya with $10,000 from JCPenney, who is committed to serving hardworking families and helping people make every moment count.

“The Jennifer Hudson Show” airs weekdays. Here’s when to watch in your area.