How has literacy benefited you and your life? Literacy has been a transformative force in my life, offering a refuge during difficult times and a source of hope for the future. As a child, books became my escape from the challenges I faced. Within their pages, I found a sanctuary—a place where I could dream of a brighter future, not only for myself but for the family I would one day build. These dreams didn’t stay confined to my imagination. They became a guiding light, helping me craft a life filled with purpose and creativity. As a mother of three, literacy has played a central role in how I connect with my children and inspire them to dream as boldly as I once did. How have picture books impacted your life? Picture books hold a unique magic. They blend the power of words with the beauty of images, creating a space where imagination comes alive. As a portrait photographer for over 13 years, I’ve spent much of my career visually telling the stories of children and families across this beautiful state I call home. I’ve seen firsthand how a single image—or a single story—can capture the essence of a moment, a relationship, or even a dream. Picture books have been deeply personal to me, not just as a mother but as a storyteller. They’ve inspired me to visualize the life I wanted and gave me the courage to create stories of my own. My books, Alphabet Dreams and Grace’s Underwater Adventure, were born out of my desire to inspire my children and others to embrace their uniqueness and persevere through life’s challenges. These stories reflect the lessons I’ve learned and the values I hold dear—kindness, grit, and the power of imagination. When I’m not writing, I’m capturing families through my lens, preserving the beauty of their stories in images. Just as picture books tell stories through words and art, photography tells stories through light and emotion. Both forms of storytelling allow me to celebrate the resilience and connection that define families and individuals alike. What do you hope to achieve with your endeavors, and how will this award help? Through my work as both a writer and a photographer, my goal is to inspire others to dream big and to embrace their stories with courage and grace. Writing children’s books has allowed me to take the lessons I’ve learned and share them in a way that resonates with families. My photography, meanwhile, has given me the privilege of documenting the lives of so many families across my community, preserving their legacies for generations. This award would be a pivotal step in continuing this journey. It would provide the resources and encouragement to share my stories of perseverance and grit with a broader audience. More than that, it would enable me to keep telling these stories—both through my lens and on the page—in ways that inspire not only myself but also those who choose to live life alongside me. Life is about finding the beauty in resilience, the hope in challenges, and the courage to move forward. Whether through a photograph or a children’s book, my mission is to remind others that no matter where they start, their stories matter. This award would help me amplify that message, touching more lives and empowering others to write their own stories of love, perseverance, and hope.

Faith, Grit, and Grace: Turning Life's Challenges into Purposeful Strength at least that's how I choose to live my life on a daily basis. While there have been MANY moments of my faith being my focus. One moment when I leaned on my faith was during a particularly difficult period of balancing my roles as a parent, student, and professional. Deadlines for school assignments, work commitments, and family obligations all collided, leaving me feeling completely overwhelmed. I remember sitting alone late at night, my laptop open and tears in my eyes, unsure of how to move forward. In that moment, I prayed for guidance and strength, asking for clarity and patience to handle everything on my plate. Through prayer, I felt a renewed sense of calm and purpose. I began to prioritize what mattered most, trusted that I wasn’t alone in the struggle, and tackled each task with intention, relying on faith that I’d find my way through. Looking back, I see how that moment taught me to trust in something greater than myself and to let go of the need for perfection. It reminded me that faith isn’t just about asking for help but about believing I already have the strength to persevere. One of the most significant times I relied on my faith was during three medically complicated pregnancies with my children. Each experience brought unique challenges and trauma that tested my strength, but I firmly believed God was using me. Whether it was to help prevent someone else from experiencing similar pain or to build my testimony, I trusted that my struggles had a greater purpose. I now see these moments as part of a larger plan, equipping me to support and encourage others walking a similar path. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, I faced another life-altering challenge. Doctors suspected thyroid cancer, and amidst the chaos of COVID-19, I had to undergo surgery to remove my thyroid. After the procedure, my doctor said something that has stayed with me ever since: "Your thyroid was so enlarged that we’re unsure how you were not only still breathing but present with your family." That was a “but God” moment—one that reaffirmed my belief in His grace and purpose for my life. I’m also a reader, and books like Grit Don’t Quit by Bianca Juarez Olthoff and Don’t Settle for Safe by Sarah Jakes Roberts have taught me the value of perseverance. These books helped me see that life’s challenges aren’t meant to stop me but to refine me. This perspective informs how I approach adversity—not as a roadblock but as an opportunity to grow stronger and more adaptable. It’s why I strive to inspire others to keep going, no matter the obstacles, and show them that persistence can pave the way for a brighter future. There have been plenty of obstacles in my path, but my faith, combined with the lessons I’ve learned and my commitment to growth, has carried me through. These challenges have shaped me into someone who can encourage others, proving that even in the hardest moments, there’s hope and a reason to press on.

The books I’ve read have profoundly shaped the way I view my role in the world and the impact I want to make. Each one has left an imprint, teaching me lessons about resilience, authenticity, and connection that guide how I show up for others and myself. Lessons on Resilience and Grit From Grit Don’t Quit by Bianca Juarez Olthoff and Don’t Settle for Safe by Sarah Jakes Roberts, I learned the value of perseverance. These books taught me that life’s challenges aren’t meant to stop me but to refine me. This understanding informs how I approach adversity—not as a roadblock, but as an opportunity to grow stronger and more adaptable. It’s why I want to inspire others to keep going, no matter the obstacles, and show them that their persistence can pave the way for a better future. The Power of Authenticity and Connection Books like 7L: The Seven Levels of Communication by Michael J. Maher and Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel reinforced the importance of authentic relationships and intentional communication. These lessons have encouraged me to build bridges with others by being honest, vulnerable, and thoughtful in my interactions. They remind me that lasting impact often starts with one meaningful connection at a time, and I strive to lead by example in creating spaces where people feel seen and valued. Leadership Through Courage and Faith Reading Becoming by Michelle Obama and Ready to Rise by Jo Saxton inspired me to embrace leadership as an opportunity to lift others. These books showed me that true leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about using your platform, however small, to amplify voices and create opportunities. This fuels my desire to empower others, especially women, to step boldly into their own leadership journeys. Cultivating Joy and Purpose Books like Lessons in Chemistry and Bamboozled by Jesus by Yvonne Orji reminded me of the importance of joy and humor, even amidst life’s struggles. They taught me that making an impact doesn’t have to be serious all the time—it can be vibrant, creative, and filled with laughter. This perspective encourages me to approach my work and relationships with energy and positivity, showing others that living with purpose can be both fulfilling and fun. Living with Intentionality The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and The Miracle Morning by Michael J. Maher and Michael Reese taught me the importance of focus and structure. These books instilled in me the belief that living intentionally, even in the smallest actions, can create significant, long-lasting results. It’s a lesson I carry into how I set goals, serve others, and plan the contributions I want to make. Embracing Self-Worth Through Big, Bold, and Beautiful by Kierra Sheard-Kelly and Finding Me by Viola Davis, I learned the power of owning my story and embracing my unique value. These books have shaped my commitment to helping others see their worth, encouraging them to step into their full potential without fear or self-doubt. The Impact I Want to Make The overarching message from all these books is that the most meaningful impact comes from living authentically, leading with resilience, and helping others discover their own strength. Whether it’s empowering women to pursue their dreams, fostering genuine connections, or creating spaces for joy and growth, I want my life to be a testament to these lessons. My goal is to inspire others to see the beauty in their own journey and to remind them that, no matter what, they can rise above their circumstances to create a life that matters.

Pursuing higher education has been a deeply personal journey for me, one rooted in the experiences of my childhood and the challenges I’ve faced as an adult. As the child of a single mother who barely graduated high school, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles that come with a lack of formal education. My mother worked tirelessly in food service and childcare, not because she loved those jobs, but because they were the only areas where her experience justified her worth. Her learning disability limited her opportunities, but she never let that hold her back from encouraging me to pursue more. Despite the obstacles she faced, she instilled in me a belief in the power of education and always pushed me to seek opportunities she didn’t have. I had always intended to go to college straight out of high school. I took the necessary classes, prepared for the transition, and even started attending courses. However, medical issues arose, and my plans came to a grinding halt. The interruption was devastating, and I found myself questioning whether I could ever make it back. I almost gave up. The weight of juggling family responsibilities, my health, and the pressures of daily life made it seem impossible to move forward. It would have been easy to walk away, to say that life had gotten in the way and that higher education just wasn’t in the cards for me anymore. But every time I looked at my children, I knew that giving up wasn’t an option. I couldn’t allow them to see me fail or to believe that our family’s story was one of limitations and missed opportunities. I wanted them to see me succeed, to know that no matter how difficult the path, it’s possible to achieve what you set your mind to. I wanted to break the cycle that had limited generations before me, to show them that our future doesn’t have to be determined by where we start. The cycle of limitation ends with me. I made the decision to return to my education with a renewed sense of purpose. This time, it wasn’t just about me—it was about them. I’m okay shouldering the weight of this journey because I know it will open doors not just for myself, but for my children as well. What I’ve done, they can do better. And by seeing me push through challenges, they’ll know that they’re capable of even more. Returning to college after stepping away wasn’t easy, but I’ve prepared myself by building strong support systems and learning to advocate for myself in new ways. I’ve tapped into resources that are designed to support non-traditional and first-generation students like me. I’ve also sought mentorship from others who’ve faced similar challenges, allowing me to gain valuable insights into how to balance my studies with the demands of my personal life. Through internships and leadership opportunities, I’ve developed skills that will serve me well in college and beyond—time management, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. I’ve also worked hard to ensure that the financial burden of returning to school doesn’t fall solely on my family by applying for scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Every step I take now is done with intention, knowing that I am not just working toward a degree for myself, but creating a legacy of education and opportunity for my children.

Living with a heart condition like tachycardia, along with scarring from atrial fibrillation (AFib) and coronary heart disease, has completely reshaped my life, both personally and professionally. My health challenges have forced me to reevaluate how I can work, especially in photography, which has always been a passion of mine. As someone who thrived on capturing weddings and big events, I’ve had to face the reality that my body can no longer handle the physical demands that come with those types of jobs. Yet, I refuse to let these challenges define or limit me. Instead, I’ve found ways to adapt, create new opportunities, and share my journey to inspire others. Tachycardia causes my heart to beat abnormally fast, which has affected my ability to work long hours or take on physically demanding jobs. I loved photographing weddings—there’s nothing like the energy and joy of a couple’s big day. But as my health worsened, I had to let that go. I just couldn’t handle the long hours on my feet, the heavy equipment, and the stress of working through unpredictable heart palpitations. Scarring from AFib made my heart rhythm even more erratic, adding another layer of difficulty. I’ve developed a migraine disorder due to displaced vertebrae in my spine after I had my enlarged thyroid removed. The constant migraines have become an enormous obstacle in my daily life, making it even harder to stay in a field that requires physical stamina and mental sharpness. All of this has impacted my career beyond just weddings. There have been times when I’ve struggled to find jobs that suit both my skillset and my health needs. Most traditional roles expect a level of physical and time commitment that I simply can’t maintain. This mismatch between what I’m capable of and what many jobs require has been incredibly frustrating. I know my skills are valuable but finding a role that allows me to work around my health has been a constant challenge. That’s when I realized I needed to create opportunities for myself. Since the traditional job market wasn’t offering roles that fit my unique situation, I decided to carve my own path by focusing on freelance photography, graphic design, and communications work. Being my own boss gave me the flexibility I needed to manage my health while still putting my skills to good use. I started by taking on smaller photography projects that didn’t require the same physical demands as weddings—like family portraits, editorial work, and product photography. These types of jobs allowed me to stay connected to the creative side of photography that I love, while also working within the limitations my health imposed. I’ve found a way to blend my love for creativity with the need to manage my health, and in the process, I’ve built a career on my own terms. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m proud of the way I’ve turned obstacles into opportunities. I openly share my story and my testimony, using my experiences to encourage others who are going through their own challenges. I want people to know that even when life throws you something unexpected, there are still ways to move forward. You just have to be willing to get creative and, sometimes, build your own opportunities from scratch. I’ve created jobs for myself through freelance photography, graphic design, and communications. These challenges have taught me the power of resilience, creativity, and the importance of adapting when life doesn’t go as planned. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others not to give up on their dreams, even when the path forward seems uncertain.

My Entrepreneurial Journey: Creativity, Community, and Connection My story is deeply rooted in creativity, community engagement, and a genuine passion for helping others achieve their goals. Growing up in Clemson, South Carolina, I developed an early connection to the spirit of community that has shaped much of my personal and professional journey. Living just five minutes from Clemson University, I could hear the roar of the stadium from my bedroom window—a constant reminder of the sense of connection and belonging that community brings. This early exposure to my hometown’s tight-knit culture played a significant role in shaping who I am today. From a young age, I found myself drawn to the world of visual storytelling, which eventually led me to pursue a career in photography. Over the past 13 years, I’ve worked as a professional photographer, focusing on capturing families, change-makers, and businesses through my lens. Photography became not just a career but an extension of my love for creativity and connecting with people. Through this work, I developed a strong foundation in digital marketing, content creation, and public relations—skills that would later play a pivotal role in shaping my path toward entrepreneurship. As my photography career evolved, I began to recognize the power of storytelling beyond images. My passion for showcasing people’s abilities and telling their stories ignited a desire to do more—especially in helping others find their own sense of belonging and home. This passion, coupled with my skills in marketing and communications, naturally led me to explore the world of real estate. From Photography to Real Estate: Guiding People Home Real estate felt like the perfect way to marry my love for creativity with my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Helping individuals and families find a place to call home is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. It’s not just about buying or selling properties; it’s about guiding people through one of the most significant decisions of their lives. As a Realtor with Real Broker, LLC, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with first-time homebuyers, helping them navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of purchasing a home. One of the things that drew me to real estate was the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with my clients. I take a patient, personalized approach, ensuring that every client feels supported and informed throughout their journey. Whether it’s connecting buyers with the right lenders, helping them avoid common financial pitfalls, or crafting customized marketing strategies for sellers, my focus is always on providing value and making the process as smooth as possible. Pursuing a Degree in Media Communications: Expanding My Knowledge and Skills As I continue to grow in my career, I believe that education is a lifelong journey. To further enhance my skills and expand my understanding of how to communicate effectively in today’s fast-paced digital world, I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Media Communications at Full Sail University. This decision was driven by my desire to deepen my knowledge of media strategy, content creation, and brand development—skills that are crucial not only for my real estate business but also for my broader entrepreneurial endeavors. Pursuing this degree has also given me the tools to merge creativity with strategy, allowing me to approach creative projects with a more well-rounded perspective. I’m excited to apply what I’m learning to both my real estate career and my passion projects, from marketing homes to crafting engaging content for social media. Looking Forward: My Goals and Vision for the Future Looking ahead, my goal is to continue growing both my real estate business and my creative ventures. I aim to ensure that my clients receive the best representation possible. On the creative side, I’m eager to explore new opportunities in photography, writing, and community engagement. My love for storytelling continues to drive me, and I hope to use my platform to highlight local businesses, change-makers, and community members who are making a difference. This passion for storytelling is reflected in my work with TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent Magazine, where I write columns and showcase local figures through photography and editorial content. Ultimately, my vision is to inspire others to strive for more—not just for themselves but for their families and communities. My entrepreneurial journey is one of continuous learning, growth, and connection. From photography to real estate and media communications, each step has been driven by my desire to serve others and create meaningful experiences. As I continue to build my business and pursue my degree, I remain focused on helping people find their sense of home, whether that’s through a new property, a story told through my camera, or a message of encouragement. I’m excited for what the future holds.

As I reflect within myself I truly believe that I embody Servant Leadership the Most. Striving for servant leadership is more than a professional philosophy for me—it's a reflection of my personal journey and values. As a Realtor, photographer, and writer, my approach is deeply rooted in the belief that serving others is the highest form of leadership. This belief is shaped by my experiences as a wife, mother, and a child of a single parent who has navigated life's challenges with resilience and grace. In real estate, I prioritize my clients’ needs, guiding them through the often daunting process of buying their first home. My commitment to their well-being is a natural extension of the care I’ve always received from those around me. By being patient and empathetic, I help first-time homebuyers feel supported and confident in their decisions. This approach builds trust and fosters meaningful relationships, which are essential to a successful real estate practice. My work as a freelance photographer and writer further exemplifies my dedication to servant leadership. Through my columns in TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent Magazine, I spotlight local businesses and individuals who are making a positive impact. Celebrating their stories and achievements not only enriches our community but also reflects my belief in uplifting others. I see each project as an opportunity to serve and make a difference. This also has given me opportunities to serve on a personal basis within the community sharing my love of art, community, and culture along with my passion for children. (https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/upstateparent/2024/05/10/local-voices-meyer-center-for-special-children/73616912007/) Being a wife and mother has taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and support. Balancing family life with my career requires a deep sense of purpose and dedication. These experiences have shaped my approach to leadership, reinforcing my commitment to serving others with kindness and understanding. Surviving challenges and growing up as a child of a single parent has instilled in me a profound sense of resilience and compassion. When that single parent noticed a void in the foster care industry she dedicated fifteen years of our lives to focusing on special needs as well as medically fragile children. These experiences drive me to lead with empathy and understanding of the struggles and triumphs that others face. Striving for servant leadership is not just about guiding others—it's about doing so with a heart full of care and a genuine desire to support and uplift those around me. While I openly can admit that I struggle sometimes with the juggling act of life and my roles. I know that it's my greatest area for improvement, especially adding persuing higher education into the mixture of things. Time management is a vital skill I’ve developed through balancing my roles as a Realtor, photographer, writer, wife, and mother. Managing these responsibilities effectively requires a thoughtful approach to prioritizing and organizing my time, which has become a cornerstone of my daily routine. In real estate, efficient time management is crucial. I need to handle client meetings, property showings, and administrative tasks while ensuring that each client receives personalized attention. Establishing a clear schedule and setting priorities helps me stay organized and meet deadlines. Tools like calendars and task management apps are essential for keeping track of my commitments and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Balancing my work as a photographer and writer with family life adds another layer of complexity. I find that breaking down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks makes them more approachable and helps me maintain focus. Clear communication and delegation are key to managing these responsibilities effectively. Being a wife and mother means that time management also involves dedicating time to family and self-care. Scheduling regular moments for my loved ones is essential for maintaining strong relationships and ensuring that I am present for the important moments in our lives. Additionally, prioritizing self-care is crucial for my overall well-being. I incorporate therapy into my routine to help me manage stress and maintain a healthy balance. This practice allows me to approach each day with clarity and resilience, ensuring that I am equipped to handle both professional and personal challenges effectively. Though I wear many hats, my spouse and children are my greatest supporters, always cheering me on. Even when I worry about things slipping through the cracks, they remind me of my strengths. Being present in their lives is a priority, so I’ve crafted a career that fits around our family time. From editing weddings during nap time to doing photoshoots with a baby in tow, their unwavering support and love keep me going. Our family’s love language might be sarcasm, but we always come together when needed. Pursuing higher education wouldn’t be possible without them.

In a world that is constantly evolving, I believe the key to making a lasting impact is to embrace a mindset of continuous learning, personal growth, and meaningful contribution to others. My journey has been shaped by these principles, and I am committed to using my skills and experiences to make a positive difference in my career and beyond. I have a diverse background that spans over a decade of experience in photography, marketing, public relations, and real estate. At the heart of everything I do is a passion for storytelling, whether it's capturing a moment through the lens of my camera, creating compelling marketing content, or helping individuals and families find their dream homes. Through these mediums, I’ve discovered the power of connection and the profound influence one can have by simply helping others tell their stories or achieve their goals. Photography has been my primary mode of creative expression. For over 13 years, I’ve had the privilege of documenting families, events, and the stories of my community. My work as an editorial photographer for publications like TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent allows me to highlight the voices and contributions of local businesses, artists, and changemakers. It’s in these moments of storytelling that I’ve realized the ripple effect one small act of encouragement or support can have on a community. My experience in marketing and public relations has equipped me with the tools to communicate effectively and authentically. I’ve worked with various clients to create engaging content and build marketing strategies that amplify their messages. I’ve always been driven by a desire to help others succeed, and in this realm, that means finding innovative ways to help businesses and individuals stand out in their respective industries. Whether it’s supporting small businesses, promoting sustainable practices, or helping first-time homebuyers navigate the complexities of real estate. Real estate, my newest professional endeavor, has become an unexpected avenue through which I can make a tangible difference. For many, buying a home is one of the most significant milestones in life, and I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. As a Realtor, my goal is to not only help my clients find homes but also to empower them with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions. I believe that homeownership should be accessible and equitable, and I’m committed to advocating for programs and initiatives that help individuals and families achieve financial stability through real estate. Looking ahead, I see my career as a platform to contribute to the larger goal of creating more inclusive and supportive communities. I want to use my skills to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion. I plan to collaborate with like-minded organizations, provide resources for aspiring entrepreneurs, and encourage creative expression as a means of personal and collective growth. Ultimately, my impact on the world will be measured by how I uplift and empower others. Whether it’s through a photo that captures a special moment, a marketing campaign that helps a business grow, or helping someone realize their dream of homeownership, I am committed to making a positive difference. My career is not just about personal success; it’s about being a catalyst for change and contributing to something bigger than myself. I aim to bring light, love, and patience to everything I do. This approach has served me well in both my personal and professional life. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to dream bigger, strive for more, and never stop believing in their potential.

Faith has been the cornerstone of my life, guiding me through the most joyous moments and the darkest challenges. Growing up as the child of a single parent, I quickly learned the value of community and the unwavering support of faith. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for me, but it was the church that stepped in and raised me in so many ways. The women and men of my church were my extended family, helping me find my place in the world, teaching me lessons in faith, love, and resilience. Those lessons have carried me through a lifetime of trials, from battling serious medical conditions to experiencing profound personal loss. One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced came in the form of a medical diagnosis that changed my life: Hearing the words “You may have cancer” was terrifying, and there were moments when I didn’t know how I would cope. But it was my faith that pulled me through. I turned to God, leaning on prayer and the support of my church family. They rallied around me, lifting me in prayer and encouraging me to trust in God’s plan, even when I couldn’t see the way forward. With God’s grace, I was able to undergo treatment, and while the physical and emotional toll was immense, I came out of it stronger in faith, knowing that my journey was part of a greater testimony. However, the road didn’t end with just one battle. Along the way, I experienced the heartbreak of losing two children during pregnancy. The grief was overwhelming, and there were times when I felt lost in the pain. But even in those moments, I clung to my faith. I believed, and still believe, that God has a purpose for my life, even when I don’t fully understand His plan. On top of these life-altering challenges, I also battle a chronic migraine disorder that impacts my daily life. There are days when the pain is unbearable, and I’m unable to do the things I love. But again, faith has been my constant. I’ve learned that God doesn’t always take away the struggles we face, but He gives us the strength to persevere through them. My faith reminds me that each battle I face is shaping me, refining me, and preparing me for something greater. Every trial I endure is part of my testimony—a testament to God’s goodness and faithfulness, even in the most difficult times. I’ve come to understand that the challenges we face in life are not meant to break us, but to build us up. With each hardship, I’ve learned to adapt, to overcome, and to find strength in places I never thought possible. I’ve also learned that my struggles are not just for me. They are part of my story, a testimony that can inspire and uplift others. As I look toward my career, I know that my faith will continue to be a guiding force. It has already helped me navigate the ups and downs of life, and I believe it will continue to shape how I approach my work. My experiences have given me a deep well of empathy and understanding, qualities that I bring into every interaction—whether I’m writing, photographing, or simply connecting with others. I’ve always believed that my work is about more than just creating. Whether I’m capturing a moment through my camera lens or telling a story with my words. As I move forward in my career, I know that my faith will guide me, giving me the resilience, compassion, and courage to use my gifts for good.

There’s something incredibly powerful about storytelling—whether it’s through words, melodies, or capturing moments through a lens. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to creative expression, whether it was writing down my thoughts, crafting poetry, or creating music on the guitar or piano. I’d fill notebook after notebook with dreams, memories, and emotions, finding comfort in putting pen to paper. Writing became my way of connecting not only with myself but with the world around me. It was a space where I could be vulnerable and authentic. As much as I loved writing, I eventually discovered another creative outlet—photography. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and that resonated deeply with me. Photography felt like an extension of my storytelling, a way to capture the unspoken moments of joy, laughter, and raw emotion. It became an alternative form of therapy, not just for me but for the people who trusted me to capture their stories. When I combine everything I love—writing, storytelling, and photography—I feel like I’m truly in my element. It’s more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way of being present, especially with my family. It allows me to capture and share the little moments that make life meaningful, both in words and images. I get to express myself in a way that feels natural, and it brings me so much joy. Even though I’m an introvert by nature, writing and photography have given me a way to connect with the world. I’ve never been the most comfortable in large social settings, but give me a pen and paper or a camera, and I can express everything that’s in my heart. I love how writing allows me to craft stories that resonate with others, and photography gives me the ability to visually capture the essence of those stories. Together, they give me the perfect balance—letting me communicate my thoughts and emotions in a way that feels authentic and true. My love for storytelling has always been a guiding force in my life. In high school, I took that passion and launched my own magazine, where I could combine my love for writing, creativity, and community. That small step eventually led me to contribute to Upstate Parent Magazine and TALK Magazine in Greenville, SC. Through these platforms, I’ve been able to share stories about parenting, art, and the people who make our community special. It’s been an honor to use my voice to shine a light on those who often go unnoticed and to celebrate the beauty in everyday moments. Each piece I write and every photograph I take is deeply personal to me. I believe that storytelling, whether it’s through words or images, has the power to uplift, inspire, and connect. It’s about capturing not just the grand, life-changing moments but also the smaller, quieter ones that hold so much meaning. Photography and writing have allowed me to be more than just an observer of life—I get to be a storyteller, capturing the essence of what makes each moment unique. For me, it’s always been about connection. I find joy in creating something that not only reflects my own experiences but also touches the lives of others. It’s a reminder that we all have stories worth telling, and I’m grateful to have found a way to share mine. Whether through the lens of my camera or the words I write, I’m always searching for new ways to connect, inspire, and celebrate the beauty of life. This passion for storytelling will continue to guide me into my next adventure.

Throughout my life, I’ve dedicated myself to serving others and making a meaningful impact in my community. From fostering children with special needs alongside my mother to capturing family moments through my portrait project, I’ve always sought to contribute positively to the lives of those around me. My journey has been deeply influenced by my personal experiences, including the loss of my grandmother and the lessons I learned about cherishing every moment. Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Communication, driven by a passion for storytelling and a desire to amplify voices within my community. As a freelance journalist and contributor to TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent, I’ve had the privilege of highlighting organizations and individuals making a difference in Upstate South Carolina. My goal is to use my education to further this impact, bringing attention to causes and stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, balancing my educational aspirations with my responsibilities as a mother of three and a professional has its challenges. My children—ages 13, 11, and 8—are deeply involved in their own pursuits, from sports to music. I strive to be their biggest cheerleader, attending their events and supporting their passions, which makes managing my time and finances for education even more crucial. A scholarship would be transformative for me. It would alleviate the financial burden of my studies, allowing me to focus more on my coursework and community projects. With this support, I could dedicate more time to learning and growing in my field, which would directly enhance my ability to serve others and contribute to my community. The scholarship would enable me to better balance my educational goals with my family commitments, ensuring that I can fully engage in both without compromise. Additionally, the scholarship would support my efforts to inspire my children through my actions. I want them to see that pursuing higher education and making a difference in the community are not just aspirations but achievable goals. By securing this scholarship, I can set an example of perseverance and dedication, showing them the importance of following one’s passion and contributing to the greater good. In summary, a scholarship would provide the financial support I need to continue my education, allowing me to expand my impact as a journalist and advocate. It would empower me to fully commit to my studies and my community, while also supporting my family. With this assistance, I am confident I can achieve my goals, make a meaningful difference, and continue to inspire those around me.

For over 15 years, my mother and I fostered children, focusing on those with special needs and medically fragile conditions. This experience deeply shaped my understanding of love, stability, and the importance of family. Even though many of the children stayed with us for only a short time, we made sure they felt safe and cherished. These experiences instilled in me the values of compassion, service, and being fully present for those who need it most. The importance of being present became even more personal after losing my grandmother in 2008. She always avoided being in photos, preferring to live in the moment rather than capture it. After she passed, I was devastated that I didn’t have a single photo of her, leaving a void I couldn’t fill. This loss inspired me to create a yearly portrait project, where I offer family photography to those who might not be able to afford it. These portraits allow families to preserve precious memories because we never know how long we’ll have with our loved ones. As a mother of three, I’ve made it my priority to instill these same values in my children. At ages 13, 11, and 8, each of my kids demonstrates a heart for others in their own way. One is dedicated to sports, learning teamwork and resilience, while the other two pursue musical endeavors, using their creativity to express themselves. Just as I’ve supported countless families through photography, I’m just as present in my own children's lives. Whether I’m cheering at a sports game or attending a recital, I show up for them as their biggest cheerleader. I want them to know what it’s like to have a mother who is always there—so much so that they might get bored of how often I’m present. Their teachers often share stories of their kindness, empathy, and commitment to others. Just as I support them, they support me in my journey to earn my degree in Communication. They see my efforts to serve the community through my work as a freelance journalist and photographer, and they mirror that dedication in their own lives. Together, we walk the path of caring for others and making a difference. In my freelance journalism, I highlight organizations, children, and programs making an impact in Upstate South Carolina. Through my work with TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent, I share the stories of those who might otherwise go unnoticed but are doing incredible things for the community. Whether it’s a local nonprofit supporting foster families or a youth program promoting empowerment, I’m committed to shining a light on the individuals and organizations driving positive change. At the heart of everything I do—whether it’s fostering children, capturing family memories, or supporting my own kids—is the belief that being truly present is the greatest gift we can offer. I am determined to make a difference in the lives of others, while setting an example for my children that love, compassion, and dedication can shape not only their futures but the world around them.

For as long as I can remember, my mother and I have been dedicated to helping others. Over the course of 15 years, we fostered children, focusing on those with special needs and medically fragile conditions. This experience shaped my perspective on life, family, and the fleeting nature of time. Caring for these children taught me the value of unconditional love and the importance of creating stability in the lives of those who need it most. Even though many of the children in our care were with us only briefly, the bonds we formed were powerful, and the impact on their lives—and ours—was profound. This journey also heightened my awareness of the need to preserve family memories. After losing my grandmother in 2008, I was devastated to realize that I didn’t have a single photo of her. She had always avoided being in pictures, preferring to live in the moment rather than capture it. While her intention was understandable, her absence in family photos left a void that could never be filled. Her passing taught me that we should strive to live in the moment and be a part of it as well—so that the people we love have something to hold onto when we're no longer here. Inspired by this realization, I launched a yearly portrait project with a mission to capture family memories, particularly for those who often can’t afford professional photography. I believe every family deserves to have at least one photo together, no matter their circumstances. The thought that these families might look back on those images someday, knowing they captured a precious moment in time, drives my passion. The photos I take are more than just portraits; they are legacies, tangible connections to a moment that could otherwise be lost. In my work as a photographer, I strive to remind people that life is fleeting, and we should embrace every opportunity to capture the love and unity within our families. It’s a way to ensure that we are not just living in the moment but also preserving it for future generations. My desire to help families celebrate these moments extends beyond photography and into my work as a Realtor. I specialize in guiding first-time homebuyers through the process of finding their dream home—a place where new family memories can be made and cherished. In addition to my work in photography and real estate, I use my position as a freelance journalist to highlight programs, children, and organizations that are making a real difference in the Upstate, South Carolina community. As a contributor to TALK Greenville Magazine and Upstate Parent, I’ve had the privilege of using my storytelling abilities to amplify the voices of those working tirelessly to create positive change. Whether it’s a nonprofit supporting foster children, an after-school program empowering youth, or a community leader championing inclusion, my goal is to shed light on the individuals and organizations that often go unnoticed but are truly transforming lives. My journey, both personal and professional, has always been rooted in a deep love for community and family. From fostering children with my mother to capturing family portraits for those in need, I’ve learned that the smallest actions can have the greatest impact. My grandmother’s legacy lives on not just in the lessons she taught me but in every family photo I take and every story I write. I am committed to helping others celebrate their own stories, live in the moment, and capture it for the future.