Education emerged as my first love in the echoing corridors of my childhood. This divine encounter transformed my journey from a kid talking to stuffed animals to a passionate advocate shaping minds. As a black queer woman, I've wielded education as my great equalizer, a key that opens doors but also ignites controversy within my community.
In the genesis of my education romance, I was an ever-encouraging friend who always wanted to uplift others to their best selves. When it found me, education allowed me to bridge the gap between being myself and being a mentor—a divine space where purpose and passion collided. It became my mission to make the world better long before I recognized the power within myself. I understood that my love for people was more significant than just my childhood experience shaped by my teachers, who loved that I was intelligent and passionate. I adored the fact that my teachers loved what they did for a living, which made the experience more richer and more exciting; therefore, I knew it was vital for me to love what I did because there was a possibility I could change someone’s life as well.
Being a black queer woman, education has been my ticket to credibility, and my silent disruptor against stereotypes. Yet, I acknowledge the historical struggle; being denied access and, when granted, overshadowed by the pressing need for survival. Education, for Black people, is both a source of pride and a point of contention.
As I continue this educational odyssey, my purpose is clear: disrupt, encourage, and empower. To dismantle stereotypes, embolden those who look like me to persevere, and teach them the art of self-advocacy while remaining true to their values. Education isn't just my first love; it's a powerful force for change, a journey that transcends the classroom and becomes a legacy of empowerment
