At the age of 19, Lester was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after serving 20 years. During his time in prison, Lester struggled with finding redemption and often wondered what his purpose was. While journaling, he asked himself this question, “What is the footprint you want to leave in this world?” It was then that he realized his purpose was to be “that” voice to help at-risk youth. With approval from the warden, Lester, along with the prison chaplain, began meeting to create outlines, programs, and classes to instruct and mentor fellow incarcerated individuals. This is where the idea of him establishing his non-profit organization “Path2Redemption” got its start.

After serving 22 years and 5 months, Lester was released on parole. He has received a full pardon from the State of South Carolina and the outlines for his programs are still being taught in prisons. As the founder of Path2Redemption, Lester believes that “when you share with others from lessons that you have learned, you may not save them all, but you will change the vision for the future of at least one.” He is nationally known for his work with Steve Benjamin, (former Mayor of Columbia, SC) for having the first statewide ordinance passed for “Ban the Box”. This campaign gives incarcerated individuals the chance to complete applications without being discriminated against for past convictions.

For more information on Lester’s journey click below