As a single mother of two boys from Newark, New Jersey, I have experienced firsthand the emotional, mental, and financial challenges that many women face—especially during and after childbirth. These experiences have not only shaped my resilience, but also sparked a deep commitment to mental health advocacy, particularly for women navigating postpartum struggles in underserved communities. With a degree in Human Development, I plan to become a licensed advocate and educator, providing support systems that empower individuals and families to thrive emotionally. Currently, I am already making a difference in my community here in Atlanta, GA, through my work in property management. I’m often the first point of contact for residents in crisis, and I take that role seriously. Whether it's guiding someone toward mental health resources, de-escalating conflict, or simply being someone who listens without judgment, I have learned the value of showing up for people when they feel unseen. Beyond my job, I’m also involved in organizing youth mentorship activities and informally supporting mothers who feel overwhelmed and isolated—especially those silently battling postpartum depression, as I once did. My vision for the future is grounded in compassion and fueled by purpose. After earning my degree, I plan to establish a nonprofit wellness center in Newark that offers culturally sensitive therapy, parenting support, postpartum care workshops, and emotional development resources for youth. I want to create a space where mental health is prioritized, stigma is dismantled, and people—especially women and mothers—can reclaim their emotional strength without shame. I believe that mental wellness is a right, not a privilege, and I am determined to bring that belief to life in the place I call home. Being a mother has given me a powerful perspective on what it means to nurture and protect. But more than that, it’s given me the drive to create a better world for my children and others like them. I want my sons to grow up in a community where emotional intelligence is normalized, where asking for help is seen as a strength, and where their mother is part of a movement for healing and hope. I know the road ahead won't be easy—but I’m not afraid of hard work. I’ve balanced motherhood, full-time work, and school with determination because I know what’s at stake. I am building a future not just for my boys, but for every woman who has ever felt alone in her struggles. Through my education, my lived experience, and my passion for advocacy, I plan to become a voice for the voiceless—and a light for those still trying to find their way.

I am a single mother who moved to Atlanta to create a better life for my two sons. Growing up, I faced hardship, including homelessness, but I’ve learned to see these experiences as stepping stones. My sensitivity and empathy, once seen as weaknesses, now fuel my desire to support others facing similar struggles. The Black experience has profoundly shaped my journey and career goals. As a Black woman, I’ve seen firsthand the disparities in education, mental health, and access to resources in communities of color. These challenges motivated me to pursue a career in therapy, where I can advocate for emotional well-being in Black communities, where mental health is often stigmatized. My goal is to offer therapeutic support to individuals and families navigating these challenges. Attending an HBCU like Howard University is vital to my path. It represents a space where my identity, culture, and lived experiences will be celebrated. Howard’s environment will empower me to pursue my goals, surrounded by a community that shares my commitment to uplifting the Black community. I believe this environment will help me grow both as a scholar and a future therapist. My personal journey has been one of perseverance. After my first son was born, I attempted college but found it difficult to balance motherhood with education. However, I moved to Atlanta to stabilize my family, enrolled in online courses, and earned my Associate’s degree in Business Administration. Although this was an achievement, my passion for human development led me to change my major and pursue a degree aligned with my goal of becoming a therapist. Balancing motherhood with school—especially with a 12-year-old and a 5-month-old—has been challenging but has strengthened my resolve. My sons motivate me daily, and I want them to understand that, regardless of obstacles, education is the key to a better future. Implementing a positive impact on the world starts with positive impact on my boys. With this scholarship, I will be able to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress, making it possible to continue my journey toward becoming a therapist. I aim to serve Black communities, providing them with the mental health resources and support they deserve. I believe in the healing power of education and compassion, and I am committed to helping those in need, especially within the Black community. Through my studies and future career, I hope to make a lasting impact by being a source of guidance, support, and hope for others.

Continuing my education has been fueled by my desire to create a better life for myself and my sons. From a young age, I knew that education was key to a brighter future. After high school, I became a single mother, and though I had dreams of attending college, raising my son and providing for him became my top priority. My aspirations were delayed, but my motivation to build a stable foundation for my children kept me going. Pursuing my education is not just for me—it’s for them. I faced many challenges, and the most significant one was balancing motherhood with my desire to pursue a degree. After moving to Atlanta in search of a better life, I realized the need to further my education. However, I quickly learned that juggling coursework and caring for my sons—one 12 years old and the other 5 months old—was not easy. I often found myself working late into the night after my son went to bed or waking up early to prepare them for the day while studying. Another major challenge has been the unpredictability of being a single mother. Life rarely goes according to plan. If my youngest is sick, I have to take time off from school. If my older son needs something urgent, I have to prioritize him. These challenges sometimes impact my schoolwork, but I’ve learned to adapt. Time management has become essential. I’ve learned to plan ahead, work with my professors when I need help, and be flexible when the unexpected happens. Being both a mother and a student requires constant balancing. I’ve found strategies to manage my roles. I maintain a strict schedule for school and my sons’ needs. When I need help, I reach out for support, whether it’s finding reliable childcare or communicating with my professors. Most importantly, my sons are my motivation. I want them to see that education is vital for success, and I want to teach them that no matter what challenges life throws our way, perseverance and hard work lead to brighter futures. This is vital because although I wish for my children to live in a perfect world, we all know it does not exist. Continuing my education is also prepping my boys for their futures. Continuing my education is more than just achieving my own dreams—it’s about setting an example for my children. This scholarship would provide the financial support I need to lessen the burden of tuition and school expenses. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on how to make ends meet. With this scholarship, I’ll be able to continue working toward my long term goal of becoming a therapist while also ensuring my children’s futures are filled with opportunities.