At first glance, high school senior Kelly Acevedo is like many other students: she’s involved in a host of extracurricular activities, including a leadership council, ROTC and prom committee, and boasts one of the top GPAs of her class. But woven into her triumphs are obstacles few her age have been forced to face, including years of domestic instability and gang violence.

Seeker’s Laura Ling sat down with Acevedo to hear firsthand how she has managed to thrive in spite of these challenges, and to uncover what keeps her motivated. This ‘Seeker Stories’ episode chronicles Kelly’s life – past and present – culminating in her prom experience, which was made possible by TLC’s ‘Say Yes to the Prom’ initiative. Ling also spoke with Acevedo about how being given the prom of her dreams has allowed her to “be a child again” and momentarily indulge in the rite of passage instead of worrying about food, clothing and school supplies.

As the initiative continues to grow and impact more deserving students each year, TLC will air its first-ever ‘Say Yes to the Prom’ special this Friday, May 20 at 9:30 PM/ET, giving audiences the chance to experience the empowering event like never before.