One of the most prominent memories I have of my dad was at a grocery store when I was 14 years old. I went with him like I always did, but this time was different. Our family was going through a hard time for many reasons. Generational trauma, poverty, physical injury, and cultural unbelonging all underscored our experiences then; individual survival was all each of us could focus on. I don't remember how the conversation started, but I remember him telling me that life was getting to be too much, that no matter how long he waited and rested, it never seemed to get any better, and he was going to take his life when I graduated high school. At 14, I was used to having these conversations with him, not that they occurred often. At the time, it felt like my role was to support my parents; it wasn't until later that I learned this wasn't I buren I was ever meant to carry. The only thing I could bring myself to say that day was that I loved him and I wouldn't blame him. I still remember the gratitude in his eyes when I said it - and the strange sense of accomplishment in giving him comfort. I was struggling with my own mental health at the time and very much shared the sentiment. Every school day was spent just waiting for the weekend so I could rest. Every week was one week closer to winter break, spring break, so I could finally catch up and get ahead in my classes. I didn't know where my energy had gone, and slowly but surely, my friends drifted away, too. He didn't decide to take his life when I graduated. But every conflict at every front made me wonder if that was going to be the thing that pushed him over. I spent hours crying when he tried to move to North Carolina to be with family but called me, desperate and devastated at the drunken state of his brother just two hours after he'd arrived. I felt sick to my stomach the day my sister wrote him a letter telling him what a heartless abuser he was. So many years of my life feel like they weren't my own, just fearing for his well-being. This was one of many experiences that led me into an abusive relationship in which I almost lost my life - by my own choice or even my partner's - many times over. I remember feeling one day like something in my head snapped, and everything truly fell apart - little did I know this would be a turning point that saved my life. I had just one person to talk to, and that made all the difference. They didn't need to say much at all to help me, just be there. I found within me a resilience I didn't know I had, and every day I broke down from the agony I reminded myself "This is temporary. Last week was every 2 hours, this week it's 3. Next month, you'll go a whole day at work without having to step away." In reality, it took many, many months to become what I would consider functional, but I did. And finally, I sought therapy. The greatest hurdle I faced in seeking help was not being able to believe that despite all the choices I had made that got me there, I was still worthy of love. When I finally found a therapist that I could connect with, my life took an incredible turn. Not only did I learn to embrace my resilience, but I developed a newfound love and appreciation for my fellow human beings, and I believe that, although I'm not in those particular shoes anymore, everyone deserves to be loved without blame for how they got there. This culmination of experiences taught me how to care about others on a profound level, and throughout my career, I've made it a goal to be a champion of others. I've come to appreciate that we all carry our own burdens, and it's crucial to meet one another with compassion and non-judgment. These experiences have made me a more patient and supportive friend, family member, and partner. I've learned the importance of listening, of being there for someone even when words fail, just as that one person was for me during my darkest times. My journey has taught me the value of resilience and the power of human connection, transforming me into a better friend, sibling, and partner, and reinforcing my commitment to being a source of strength and support for those I care about.

Allyson Mallah is the name that immediately comes to mind when I reflect on a woman who has profoundly inspired and supported me on my career journey. Allyson's role as a professional development coach put her in a position to help people like myself, but her dedication and unwavering support went above and beyond. I first met Allyson in July of 2020 through a mentor who generously paid for her services. Little did I know that this encounter would mark the beginning of a transformative journey that would shape my personal and professional growth. As the world grappled with the unprecedented challenges brought on by COVID-19, Allyson emerged as a beacon of stability and encouragement in my life. Her commitment to my development was evident from the start, as she actively engaged with me to understand my aspirations and personal challenges within the aviation industry. She could genuinely connect and empathize with my struggles and had a talent for active listening that I still envy. The primary way Allyson supported me was by helping me explore my philosophy and values. She encouraged me to dig deep and examine the core principles that guided my life thus far and how they may impact my future. Through thoughtful conversations and introspection, I began to see how these values translated into my innate desire to make a positive impact on others and how I genuinely felt my experience in leadership would be some of the most fulfilling. This revelation had a profound influence on my career path, and even though it's been over a year since I've spoken to her, I'm still able to dive into my experiences and navigate the many changes I've seen since then. For instance, my perception of leadership has shifted significantly, and I no longer strive for a leadership title, I don't see it as a goal for myself. I now see leadership as simply a way of supporting others, and that can be done at any level, in any place. This shift in perspective is what motivates me to support those in need when I can. Another significant obstacle I've faced in my career journey is the persistent sense of imposter syndrome. Despite my hard-earned successes, I often feel like I don't belong or deserve the opportunities that come my way. Allyson recognized this self-doubt and helped me address it by teaching me to validate my own success. Through personalized coaching and guidance, she provided me with strategies to combat imposter syndrome and build confidence in my abilities. The lesson here was that when all is said and done and your achievements are listed in front of you and you can't say that any of them are lies, trust the facts. Although the feeling isn't entirely gone, she taught me ways to manage it that I often share with others. Allyson Mallah has been an extraordinary source of inspiration and support in my life. Her dedication and expertise have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. Through her guidance, I have gained a clearer understanding of my values, conquered imposter syndrome, and harnessed powerful tools to propel my personal and professional growth. Allyson's impact on my life serves as a testament to the profound influence that a woman of her caliber can have, and I am immensely grateful for the privilege of knowing and learning from her. Her unwavering support continues to motivate me as I pursue my goals and I am committed to paying forward the guidance and inspiration she has bestowed upon me to uplift and empower others in their journeys as well.