Valencia Byrd - Founder of Byrd's Nest
Her Story

From Incarceration to Inspiration

Byrd's Nest is owned and operated by former justice-impacted entrepreneur Ms. Valencia Byrd, who experienced incarceration as both a juvenile and an adult.

With 28 years in the system, she understands the challenges, the lack of resources, and the overwhelming obstacles women face when reentering society. Her mission is to provide women with the support, skills, and guidance necessary to rebuild their lives, reunify with their families, and never return to incarceration again.

Valencia is also a breast cancer survivor, adding another layer of resilience to her incredible journey of transformation.

Today, Valencia serves as a Merchant Marine, working at sea to fund her vision of building a network of transition homes. Byrd's Nest is the first home in what will become All The Way Around Transition Home LLC — a network of homes helping women across the country learn to fly again.

Her Vision

The Vision Behind Byrd's Nest

"To become the model for transitional homes for women needing dependable, life-changing reentry services — facilitated by spiritually grounded, successful women."

Are you willing to put in the work required to become a self-sufficient, productive member of society and leave behind the things that once held you back? Do you want to learn to fly again? If so, Byrd's Nest is the place for you.

A New Chapter

Merchant Marine: Funding the Dream

Valencia became a certified Merchant Marine to fund her vision of helping other women. She now works at sea, dedicating her earnings to building transition homes.

Valencia with her crew on the ship
Valencia at work on the ship
Valencia with family visiting the ship
Achievements

Certifications & Training

Valencia earned multiple certifications from Bluewater Maritime School and completed business training during her incarceration, demonstrating her commitment to growth.

Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman Certificate

Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman

August 2022

Basic Fire Fighting Certificate

Basic Fire Fighting

August 2022

Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch Certificate

Navigational Watch

July 2022

Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties Certificate

Security Duties

July 2022

Personal Survival Techniques Certificate

Personal Survival Techniques

August 2022

Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities Certificate

Safety & Responsibilities

August 2022

First Aid & CPR Certificate

8-Hour First Aid & CPR

August 2022

Small Business Certificate

Small Business

October 2021 (During Incarceration)

Additional Certificate

Additional Certification

2022

Valencia in firefighter gear during training
Hands-On Training

Ready for Any Challenge

As part of her Merchant Marine training, Valencia completed rigorous fire fighting certification. This photo captures her during hands-on training exercises.

Her willingness to take on new challenges and push through difficult training demonstrates the same determination she brings to helping other women rebuild their lives.

Survivor

Breast Cancer Survivor

Valencia is a breast cancer survivor, adding another dimension to her journey of resilience and determination.

Her experience with cancer has deepened her compassion and understanding of the struggles women face. She uses her story to inspire others to never give up, no matter what obstacles life presents.

Valencia at breast cancer awareness event

Valencia at a breast cancer awareness event

October 8, 2025

The Signing of Byrd's Nest

A dream became reality when Valencia signed the papers for Byrd's Nest.

Signing of Byrd's Nest at Mason Title & Escrow Company
Family

In Loving Memory of Joel

Valencia's son Joel served proudly in the U.S. Navy. His memory inspires the work of Byrd's Nest and lives on through every woman we help.

Read Joel's Tribute

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Valencia and the team at Byrd's Nest are here to support you every step of the way.

Apply Now Contact Us