Growing up as a young Black boy in Houston, raised by a single mother, has shaped every part of who I am and who I want to become. My mother is the strongest person I know. She worked long hours—sometimes two jobs—not because it was easy, but because she believed I deserved better. She did everything in her power to make sure I had opportunities she never had. One of the biggest sacrifices she made was making it possible for me to attend school in Katy, even though we lived in Houston. She knew the education and resources there would give me a better shot at success, and she never let anything stop her from making that happen. That decision changed everything for me. Every day I went to school in Katy, I saw the difference. I saw what it meant to have access—access to better classrooms, better technology, and more college and career opportunities. But I also saw how different I was from many of my classmates. I wasn’t from their neighborhoods. I didn’t have the same background or the same privileges. Sometimes I felt like I didn’t fully belong. But instead of letting that make me feel less than, I let it push me. It made me want to prove that I could thrive no matter where I came from. I wanted to show that my story mattered just as much as anyone else’s. Watching my mom work as hard as she did taught me what real perseverance looks like. She never complained, even when things were tough. She made sure I had food, clothes, and everything I needed, even if it meant going without for herself. That kind of love and sacrifice taught me to be responsible, to work hard, and to never take anything for granted. Her strength made me strong. Her belief in me gave me the confidence to believe in myself. Those values—hard work, humility, faith, and resilience—are the foundation of my goals and ambitions today. I want to be successful, but not just for myself. I want to build something that helps others, especially young people who come from backgrounds like mine. That’s why I’m passionate about real estate and business. I’ve seen what a stable home and a supportive community can do for a family. I want to invest in neighborhoods that have been overlooked. I want to provide affordable housing, create jobs, and help people build wealth and security. I want to give back to the kinds of communities that raised me. This scholarship means more to me than just financial help. It’s a chance to continue my journey toward building something greater. It’s an opportunity to honor my mother’s sacrifices by turning them into success—not just for me, but for everyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t have a fair shot. I carry my upbringing with pride, and I’m determined to make every struggle, every long night, and every early morning worth it. Because I know where I come from, and I know exactly where I’m going.