Growing up in the inner city of Atlanta shaped me in ways I’m still understanding today. There was always this mix of energy, culture, and struggle. On one hand, I was surrounded by people who looked like me, who spoke like me, and who shared a deep history of pride, strength, and survival. There was a strong sense of community we had block parties, cookouts, and looked out for each other like family. On the other hand, the environment wasn’t always easy. There were abandoned buildings just down the street, sirens at night, and schools that often didn’t have the same resources as others across town or in the suburbs. One of the biggest challenges I faced growing up in Atlanta was simply staying focused and motivated. There were so many distractions peer pressure, violence, and the idea that you had to grow up fast just to survive. It’s hard to dream big when you’re constantly worried about staying safe, helping out at home, or trying to protect your younger siblings. I saw friends drop out of school, some getting caught up in things they couldn’t get out of. It was heartbreaking, and at times, it felt like no matter how hard you worked, the system was already set up against you and didn’t want you to succeed. But even in the middle of all that, I found strength. My family, especially my mom and grandparents, always pushed me to do better. They reminded me that education was a way out, and that I didn’t have to become a product of my environment. I also found peace and purpose through community programs, youth groups, and even sports. Playing softball gave me structure and taught me discipline. I learned how to be a team player, how to bounce back from losses, and how to keep going even when things got hard or felt unfair. Another way I overcame challenges was by finding mentors. I had teachers who saw potential in me and refused to let me give up. They stayed after school to help me study, encouraged me to apply for opportunities, and reminded me of my worth and capability. Sometimes, that’s all a kid needs someone to believe in them when they’re struggling to believe in themselves. Their encouragement was a light for me. Growing up in the inner city also made me resilient. I learned how to navigate difficult situations, how to adapt, and how to keep moving forward even when life felt unfair or uncertain. I’ve faced financial struggles, moments of self doubt, and times where I didn’t know what my future would look like. But through all of it, I’ve grown stronger. I’ve learned that struggle builds character, and that your environment doesn’t have to determine your future or your value. Now, as I look ahead, I carry those lessons with me. I know that I’m not just representing myself I’m carrying the hopes of my community, my family, and everyone who’s ever struggled to break the cycle. Growing up in Atlanta’s inner city wasn’t easy, but it made me who I am. And I’m proud of that.