My journey unfolds as a native Floridian who faced the challenges of growing up in poverty, relying on welfare, and navigating life without the presence of a father who left me at a very young age. Through my experiences, I've come to understand that some of us start life in less-than-ideal circumstances, grappling with financial difficulties and dependence on government assistance for basic needs. The fractured dynamics of my family further complicated my path, leading to a series of hardships and setbacks. Initially, I found solace in placing blame on others for the way I felt and the trajectory of my life. However, a pivotal moment forced me to make a crucial decision: continue to attribute my struggles to external factors or take charge of my own destiny. Opting for the latter, I chose to rise above my circumstances and proactively shape a different future. My hope is that, through sharing my story, others may be inspired to make the same empowering choice and take control of their destinies.