The power of Resilience

It. Takes. Time! A Journey of Resilience, Recognition, and Growth

In October 2023 , I received an invitation that both surprised and humbled me—an invitation to attend a reception party at Buckingham Palace. To say I was astonished is an understatement. This was more than just a prestigious event for me; it felt like a powerful sign, a symbol that reaffirmed my commitment to my path. It was a reminder to keep going, even when the road seems long and the progress slow.

As a Black, female entrepreneur, a champion of Black professional women, and someone deeply familiar with the many faces of resilience, this moment validated years of hard work. Whether it’s been studying, working, or balancing between professional life and home life, the acknowledgment mattered. In this moment, I realized that every effort counts, and sometimes, being seen and celebrated for those efforts is just as important as the achievements themselves.

Acknowledgment and Celebration Matter

For many of us, particularly Black women and other underrepresented groups, we are constantly striving to earn "a seat at the table." The table represents more than access; it represents influence, opportunity, and the ability to challenge the status quo. It’s about being part of the conversations that shape our societies, institutions, and policies. It matters that we are acknowledged. It matters that our stories of perseverance, our triumphs, and even our setbacks are recognized. As a Black woman navigating spaces that historically weren’t designed for me, I have learned that recognition is not about vanity—it’s about validation of the hard work, resilience, and determination that often goes unseen. It's a reminder that we are creating change, one step at a time.

My Top 3 Life Choices That Made a Difference

On this journey, there are three key decisions that have shaped my path and opened doors I didn’t even know existed.

1.Influence Through Board Membership One of the most significant decisions I've made is joining various boards to gain experience in governance, community cohesion, and advocacy. Serving on boards has given me the opportunity to contribute to solving societal challenges, while gaining insights into the mechanisms of decision-making. This has been invaluable in understanding how to drive systemic change from within.

2.Volunteering: A Game-Changer Volunteering has been a deeply fulfilling part of my journey, though not without its challenges. Through volunteering, I’ve expanded my network, formed new collaborations, and acquired skills I never thought I’d need. The connections and experiences gained from giving my time to causes I believe in have been transformative, both personally and professionally.

3.Always Learning They say, "readers are leaders," and I’ve embraced that philosophy wholeheartedly. I’ve made it a priority to continuously expand my knowledge in areas that align with my interests and professional goals. Whether it's through formal education, reading, or attending workshops, I've learned that knowledge is power, and staying informed equips me to better serve my community and navigate challenges.

The Road Ahead: Success Through Resilience

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that success is not simple. Life is filled with challenges, and they often come when we least expect them. But within each of us is a powerful force—resilience. It’s this resilience that allows us to bounce back after setbacks, to adapt when circumstances change, and to grow stronger with every adversity we face.

My experience at Buckingham Palace, while deeply personal, is also a reminder of the broader mission: to influence change, to ensure that more Black women are represented at the tables where decisions are made, and to push forward, knowing that every step counts.

Resilience, influence, and continuous learning are the pillars that have supported me in my journey, and I believe they are the keys to unlocking greater opportunities for all of us.

It takes time, but every step is worth it.