It almost feels surreal to wrap my mind around the fact that I will be thirty years old at the end of the year. My how time flies! As I reflect on my life I always think of the influential people who have helped shape me into who I am today. Two women who continue to inspire me are my mother and my grandmother. They both are beautiful reflections of unwavering strength, sacrifice and selflessness. What I admire the most is that I’ve seen them both go through life changing challenges which may have affected them physically yet neither of them allowed life’s hiccups to alter the essence of who they truly are.
My grandmother a breast cancer survivor and my mother diagnosed with Ataxia (a neurological disorder which effects coordination and mobility) have both shown me the true definition of determination. Over the years I’ve watched them not only exemplify strength but also offer encouragement to those in need of it.
They have each been a huge inspiration to me which is why I am passionate about giving back when I can. Whether I’m devoting my time, charitable contributions or just a word of encouragement; I know that the greatest reward to me is brightening someone else’s day. Giving back is an essential part of life and the best part is that anyone can be a blessing to someone else regardless of circumstance.
Because a great mentor can make all the difference, Coca-Cola has teamed up with Magic Johnson, Common and Debra Lee of BET Networks to give four young people the apprenticeship experience of a lifetime. Visit MCR.com/PayItForward to nominate an aspiring youth and help pay it forward to the next generation. You'll also be automatically entered for a chance to win $5,000 for each nomination you make (up to five nominations per person).
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Coca-Cola via glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of my own and are not indicative of the opinions of Coca-Cola.
