Growing up in St. Louis City, especially as a young Black girl, meant being introduced to challenges before I had the words to fully describe them. My childhood was surrounded by things that most kids should never have to normalize, gunshots in the distance, memorials on the corners, and heavy drug use right outside. I learned early on how to distinguish between what was just “city noise” and what meant danger. I was taught how to keep my head down, move quickly, and avoid confrontation. I knew people who struggled with addiction, and I watched friends lose friends or parents to violence or incarceration And through all of this, I knew to overcome this and go beyond my city and its limits. I was part of the desegregation program that allowed Black inner-city students to attend county schools. These schools were predominantly white and filled with kids who didn’t understand what I faced every day. I didn’t wear designer clothes. I didn’t have the latest hairstyles. My mom couldn’t afford those things. I was bullied for how I looked at the time, for what I didn’t have. Through it all during those formative years, I still read a lot, wrote a lot, and advocated for myself, because if not me then who? I found strength. I found confidence. I became a go-getter. I stopped trying to hide my reality and started using it to fuel me. I knew I wanted to be the kind of person I needed when I was younger, a voice of encouragement, someone who made others feel seen and heard. That’s why I’m now a Student Ambassador at my high school. I serve as Vice President of the National Honor Society, and I’m a representative in Movement, Not Moment, a student-led organization focused on promoting nonviolence in our city. I want to help my community heal, because I know what it’s like to grow up with invisible wounds. Entertainment became my escape. Music, books, stories—they made me feel powerful, even if just for a moment. That’s why I want to become an entertainment lawyer and an author. I want to protect the creative voices that shaped me. I want to help people like me tell their stories and own their futures. Financially, my family cannot afford the cost of college. My father is our sole provider, supporting me and my younger siblings while also helping care for my sister, who has a brain tumor. His businesses are struggling, and even with all his effort, it’s not enough to carry me through college without financial help. This scholarship is more than money, it’s the difference between being stuck and breaking free. I’ve had to fight through my environment, face rejection, rise above assumptions, and still do it with grace. I am ready to keep growing, and this scholarship would be an investment in someone who plans to do something real with her education, her voice, and her purpose. Thank you for considering me.

As a child, I always dreamed of being two things: a music producer and an author. Writing and music were my greatest passions,and I found joy in creating songs for my siblings and me to perform. Music, for me, was more than just sound, it was more so a time machine. I loved old songs because they carried nostalgia, bringing back memories of family cookouts, road trips, and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones. I had an old soul, and loved groups like Jackson 5, The Temptations, or New Edition. I would try to form my version of those groups. I gathered my siblings and attempted to form our own little singing group, modeling ourselves after the greats. I wrote songs, made them perform, and in those moments, it felt like we were stars. Music had the power to bring us together, to make us laugh, to create golden moments I will always cherish. But while music filled my world with sound and connection, reading provided me with quiet escapes. Books allowed me to step into different worlds, where I could lose myself in stories far beyond my reality. I remember how good books would transport me to places I had never seen, and imagine characters as vividly as if they were right in front of me. Reading was more than a hobby; it was my way of exploring without ever leaving home. I even wrote my own stories and sent them to my uncle, who was incarcerated. Storytelling felt powerful, it was a way to connect, to share, and to create something meaningful. As I got older, though, my dreams started to feel distant. People told me that being a music producer wasn’t realistic, that I needed a more stable career path. Over time, I let their words shape my decisions, pushing music aside and, eventually, even losing my passion for becoming an author. I stopped believing that these childhood loves could become something real, something I could build my future on. Instead, I found myself in a state of confusion, unsure of what direction to take. It wasn’t until my senior year that I found my way back to the passions I once held so dearly. This transitional time in my life has reminded me of who I am at my core. I’ve been writing again, reading more, and revisiting the music that once defined my childhood. And in doing so, I’ve realized that my dreams never really left me, I just needed to see them in a new light. While I may not be pursuing music production, I still want to be involved in the industry, just from a different angle. I plan to become an entertainment lawyer, advocating for artists, writers, and creatives. At the same time, my love for storytelling remains as strong as ever. I hope to become an author as well, writing children’s books that inspire young readers, especially young Black girls who deserve to see themselves reflected in stories. I still remember the books my mother read to me, how they made me feel, how they shaped my confidence. I want to create that same impact for the next generation, reminding them of their worth and the endless possibilities before them. My journey has not been linear, but I’ve come to realize that every passion I’ve ever had still holds meaning. Music, storytelling, advocacy, they all connect in ways I never saw before. Rather than leaving them behind, I’m carrying them forward, using them to build a future where creativity, justice, and purpose intersect.

From a young age, I have been deeply committed to education, personal growth, and faith, even when faced with uncertainty about my path. I have always believed that knowledge is power, but it wasn't until I experienced moments of doubt and hardship that I truly understood the impact of perseverance, faith, and the pursuit of learning. Chidubè’s story and values have further encouraged my belief that education and personal growth are not just for self-improvement but are also tools for uplifting entire communities. There was a time when I felt lost, unsure of my purpose, and questioning whether I could live up to the expectations set before me. When my grandfather passed, I was overwhelmed with grief, but in the midst of it, I remembered his unwavering belief in me. He always told me that I would accomplish things beyond my imagination, and I knew I had to turn those words into action. His faith in me became my motivation to push forward, not just for myself, but for the community I strive to uplift. The challenges I have faced have only fueled my ambition. When my father told me that we couldn’t afford college, I refused to let financial barriers define my future. Instead, I used that moment as a turning point to push myself harder, to find opportunities, and to ensure that I create a future where I not only succeed but also pave the way for others. I aspire to obtain my Juris Doctor (JD) after college, become a lawyer, and invest in real estate. These goals are not just personal ambitions; they are stepping stones toward making an impact in my community. Through my legal career, I hope to advocate for underrepresented communities, ensuring that justice is not a privilege but a right. I also have a passion for storytelling. I plan to write a children's books’ that will inspire young readers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to dream beyond their circumstances. My faith has been my anchor in a world filled with temptations and distractions. Staying faith-based has allowed me to remain grounded, reminding me of my responsibility to give back and uplift those who look like me. The values that Chidubè stood for resonate deeply with me, academic excellence, personal and spiritual growth, and a dedication to uplifting others. I strive to embody these values every day by mentoring younger students, engaging in community initiatives, and advocating for equitable opportunities for marginalized groups. I am actively involved in my church’s outreach program, where I help distribute food and resources to those in need. Additionally, I volunteer at Hamilton Elementary, dedicating time to tutoring young students and instilling in them a love for learning. These experiences have reinforced my belief that success is not just about personal achievements but about the ability to uplift and empower others. I believe that true success is measured by the impact we have on others. That is why I am committed to pouring back into my community, providing resources and opportunities to those who may feel stuck, just as I once did. Through my journey, I have learned that perseverance, faith, and education are the keys to breaking barriers. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my academic journey but also reinforce my commitment to embodying Chidubè’s legacy. I am determined to continue learning, growing, and making a lasting impact, ensuring that the opportunities I create for myself extend to those who come after me. I will never give up on myself, and I will always stay true to my mission of uplifting, educating, and inspiring others.

When I was younger, I thought success was all about having a lot of money or becoming famous. Those seemed like the ultimate goals, the things everyone admired. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized success isn’t about material things or recognition. For me, success means doing what’s best for yourself despite challenges, navigating life with purpose, and taking time to achieve the little goals that bring you happiness. It’s about overcoming obstacles and finding joy in progress, no matter how small it may seem. What sets my mindset apart from my peers is my constant focus on gratitude and intentional growth. I’m always asking myself: How can I improve today? What small steps will make me proud of myself? Who can I help, or how can I make my parents proud? These thoughts push me to act rather than wait for opportunities to come to me. Success, to me, is fulfilling those quiet, unspoken goals in my mind, whether it’s getting through a tough day, making someone smile, or simply taking another step closer to my dreams. Overcoming challenges and finding joy in those moments gives me the motivation to keep going. This mindset allows me to create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. By focusing, staying grateful, and always moving forward, I can make my mark on the world in a way that truly matters. Success isn’t about what you have, it’s about how you live, the happiness you build for yourself, and the impact you leave behind.

My name is Sabrina Brown, and I am applying for the Nabi Nicole Memorial Scholarship in honor of a woman who exemplified faith and service to others. I recently experienced a deeply personal loss that tested my faith and resilience, and it is through this experience that I’ve learned the true strength of relying on God to overcome life's challenges. On November 21, 2023, my grandfather passed away. He was my role model, my advisor, and someone I adored beyond words. He was always there for me, offering wisdom and encouragement in every aspect of my life. His sudden death left me heartbroken and overwhelmed with grief. I had never faced such a deep loss, and it affected me in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. For the first time in my life, I felt utterly unmotivated. My grades began to slip, I withdrew from my social circles, and I found it difficult to focus on anything. We were all grieving, and in our sorrow, we even stopped attending church, a place that had always been a source of strength and guidance for me. As I struggled with the weight of my grief, I began to realize that my grandfather would want me to move forward, to honor his memory by continuing to strive for excellence, just as he always encouraged me to do. I knew that he wanted me to succeed academically, to fulfill my potential, and to be a source of light to others, just as he had been to me. It was at this point that I turned to my faith for strength. I began reading my Bible every day, finding solace and guidance in the verses that spoke to my pain and my hope. I committed to praying every day, seeking peace and asking God for the motivation to keep going. With each prayer and each verse, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Slowly, my faith began to restore my energy and my focus. I was reminded that God is always with me, even in the darkest times, and that my grandfather’s legacy of love, faith, and perseverance could live on through me. Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact on my life. It would not only lift the burden of tuition off my parents’ shoulders but also provide me with the opportunity to continue my education without the weight of financial stress. It would be an honor, especially in memory of Nabi Nicole, a woman who, like my grandfather, was a light to others. Her faith, ambition, and service to her community resonate with me deeply, and I hope to live out her legacy by using my education to help others and make a positive impact on the world. I am grateful for this opportunity to reflect on how my faith has carried me through one of the most difficult times of my life, and I am committed to honoring both my grandfather’s memory and the legacy of faith that Nabi Nicole embodied. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Sabrina Brown

My name is Sabrina Brown , and I am a high school senior with a deep passion for academic success, sports, and community service. I am honored to apply for the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship because Kalia’s life story truly inspires me. Like Kalia, I dream of achieving excellence in all that I do, and I would love the opportunity to walk in the path of greatness that she carved through her hard work, dedication, and unshakable commitment to both her goals and those around her. Going to college has always been a dream of mine. I’ve worked tirelessly in high school to maintain a 3.58 GPA, while also participating in mock trial, debate, and track and field. Like Kalia, I know that success requires not only talent, but discipline, persistence, and a positive mindset. I’ve learned the importance of balancing academics with athletics and community service, understanding that each area of my life contributes to my growth as a person. I admire Kalia’s ability to excel both in the classroom and on the track, while also serving as a leader and role model. Her dedication to excellence, her kindness, and her drive to help others are qualities I aspire to embody in my own life. Her story of resilience and achievement motivates me to work even harder to turn my own dreams into reality. This scholarship would mean so much to me, as it would bring me one step closer to attending college and pursuing my educational and career goals. Just like Kalia I would excel in my studies, give back to my community, and strive to be the best version of myself. Just as she demonstrated in every aspect of her life, I want to approach my college journey with a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education at an HBCU where I plan to major in communications and work toward my career goals. This scholarship would not only provide financial support but also serve as a constant reminder to me that excellence is achievable through hard work and perseverance, just as Kalia showed us. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring Kalia’s incredible legacy. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to walk in her path and to live out her legacy of living, loving, laughing, and learning. Sincerely, Sabrina Brown