How did you get involved?

It really came about through prayer and encouragement from friends. God always was a few steps ahead of me getting my name out there.

What kind of legacy do you want to leave in this community?

I want people to know that with God’s help and encouragement from family and friends, you can do anything you put your mind to. I had a lot of naysayers as I was growing up. People were saying that because I was black that I was not going to be able to compete with everyone else. I didn’t let that stop me, and I was very competitive. If you tell me that I cant do something just because of the color of my skin. I’m going to try that much harder to prove you wrong. That’s was not the healthiest way to go about things, but that’s how I did things. I wasn’t going to let anybody tell me what I can’t do, based on my skin color.

What are some tips for people to get involved in their community?

The best starting point is searching yourself and finding out what your passions are and then thinking about people close to you and how you can impact their lives through what you are passionate about. I’m one of eleven children, and I all always thought that you need to be better for somebody else. It’s part of my DNA to help other people whenever I can. There’re still opportunities to help other folks. We need role models. Role models aren’t just people that show you, but are people who value you enough to take a particular interest in helping you.

They are going to hold you accountable in being a good citizen.

What helped me was having some positive role models. I didn’t have a relationship with my dad or my stepdad. I think God placed key men in my life to give me direction, guidance, and encouragement.

What do you think the next generation needs to hear?

Take responsibility for the generation behind you; Not just of the generation that you’re in. It doesn’t have to be just family. Help the community.

“Take responsibility to be better.”

Interview By The Editor In Chief, Brandon Bornes