How do you feel about being nominated? 

“It was a word of mouth situation, so I feel honored to be thought about.”

What is your inspiration to accomplishing so much so young? 

“I am the first of my three siblings to get a four-year degree, so it is a friendly competition to see who does better, especially with my sister who is almost five years older. I also want to show my younger brother, nieces and nephews that education is one way to a positive type of success.”

What else are you engaged in? 

“I am currently in an entrepreneur phase of my life where I want to fend for myself. I am deeply interested in real estate investing and I’m aiming to start an LLC to fulfill this goal. I also have a hobby of jewelry – like mental smithing. Through my employer, I engage in community service with Habitat for Humanity, and Generation Tech, which teaches high school students about technology.”

What are your plans? 

“I plan on being a more well rounded individual by getting my master’s degree, expanding my technology skills and becoming an application developer, and working with the younger minds of today. There is such a layer of negativity in the media about role models. Those not in the limelight need to be the real day-to-day role models that inspire the up and coming generations.”

What does being part of the Diaspora mean to you? 

“Being part the African Diaspora resonates with me. I have listened to others’ conversations about their ancestry and specific roots. Many Blacks do not have this luxury, which is disheartening. But we are making our history. Even though we are still dealing with setbacks, I feel African Americans are strong, smart, talented and are a unique part of the Diaspora.”