I was born in Washington, D.C., but much of my upbringing took place in a one-bedroom apartment in Paris. However, the Paris I knew wasn’t the picturesque, romantic city that many imagine. My neighborhood was far removed from the glitz and glamour of tourist hotspots; it was a place where I knew the names of the drug dealers, where the police presence was a constant reminder of the tensions in the community, and where eviction notices were a harsh reality that often resulted in a neighbor’s belongings scattered across cobblestone streets. Despite these challenges, my community was tightly-knit, held together by shared struggles and a resilient spirit. These experiences deeply shaped my understanding of what it means to belong and the significance of contributing positively to one’s community. Living between these two worlds—spending my formative years in a low-income neighborhood on the outskirts of Paris and frequently returning to the vibrant, culturally rich city of Washington, D.C.—instilled in me a profound appreciation for adaptability, community, and the power of shared experiences. My global upbringing taught me the value of building strong, supportive networks, and it inspired me to contribute meaningfully wherever I find myself. While I’ve always been what my mother calls a “citizen of the world,” I now seek to make a tangible impact in Washington, D.C., the city that shaped my earliest memories. With a finance degree from Howard University, I plan to use my business education to significantly impact the Washington, D.C. community, particularly within the hospitality industry. My current role as a night shift manager and bartender at a local dive bar has provided me with a deep understanding of the business, and I aspire to evolve within this field. My long-term goal is to manage and eventually own multiple bars and lounges throughout the city, each with a distinct identity to cater to the diverse tastes and cultures that define D.C. However, my vision goes beyond running successful businesses. I aim to establish these establishments as community hubs, actively involved in outreach programs and charity events. By doing so, I hope to meet the needs of local residents while contributing positively to the cultural and economic fabric of the neighborhoods they serve. My ultimate objective is to achieve financial success not just for personal gain, but to create opportunities that uplift others, especially those in disadvantaged positions, providing them with the same chances that were available to me through perseverance and determination. I believe that my international experiences have given me a unique perspective on inclusion and diversity, values I plan to weave into my business ventures. Each of my establishments will be more than just a venue for socializing—they will be spaces where people from all walks of life can come together, feel welcome, and find a sense of belonging. By merging my global experiences with my deep connection to Washington, D.C., I aim to create businesses that not only thrive but also serve as pillars of support and growth within the community. Through this approach, I hope to build a legacy that reflects the values I hold dear: resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to uplifting others. Howard University, with its strong sense of community and dedication to excellence, is the ideal place for me to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve these goals. By pursuing this degree, I am confident that I will be well-equipped to make a lasting impact on the Washington, D.C. community and beyond.