Eli Motherhood Scholarship

From Adversity to Aspiration: A Journey to Empower Low-Income Families and DCF Youth through Business Growing up in a family that was entangled in the web of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) due to addiction was not an easy start to life. Witnessing the struggles of my family as they battled the clutches of substance abuse shaped my early experiences and fueled a desire within me to make a positive impact. The adversity I faced didn't just stop at the challenges within my immediate family; tragically, I lost my child's father in a boat accident, leaving me a single parent facing grief, loss, and the daunting task of providing a stable life for my child. It is this backdrop of hardship that has become the driving force behind my decision to major in business with a singular focus on creating an enterprise that uplifts low-income families and provides support to DCF youth. The catalyst for my chosen path stems from the belief that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social change. My personal experiences navigating the complexities of the DCF system and rebuilding a life from the fragments of addiction have ingrained in me a deep empathy for those facing similar struggles. The vision of owning a business tailored to the needs of low-income families and DCF youth emerged as a result of these experiences, becoming a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The impetus for this business venture is rooted in the desire to break the cycle of disadvantage that plagues so many families. I envision an enterprise that not only provides essential services but also fosters a sense of community, support, and empowerment. From affordable childcare options to vocational training programs, the business would address the multifaceted challenges that low-income families encounter daily. In my personal journey, I understand that a holistic approach is essential to break down the barriers preventing these families from achieving stability and success. Losing my child's father in a tragic accident only intensified my commitment to this vision. The profound grief and responsibilities of single parenthood could have easily become insurmountable obstacles, but instead, they became catalysts for resilience and determination. The void left by his absence propelled me to work harder, not just for my child's future but for the countless other families grappling with their hardships. This personal tragedy became a source of strength, motivating me to channel my grief into creating a legacy of support and empowerment for others. Studying business is not merely an academic pursuit for me; it is a means to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to transform vision into a reality. The coursework, particularly in areas such as entrepreneurship and social enterprise, has equipped me with the tools needed to build a business model that sustains itself but also serves a greater purpose. The synergy between my personal experiences, academic pursuits, and entrepreneurial aspirations has created a narrative of resilience, hope, and determination. In conclusion, my journey from adversity to aspiration has shaped my commitment to majoring in business with a focus on creating a business that uplifts low-income families and supports DCF youth. The challenges within my own family and the tragic loss of my child's father have become the driving force behind my vision, intensifying my dedication to breaking the cycle of disadvantage and providing a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles. Through education, experience, and unwavering determination, I am working towards a future where my business contributes meaningfully to the well-being and success of individuals and families who, like me, face adversity head-on.