Are you originally from Texarkana and/or surrounding areas? Surrounding area: Fulton.
Can you share a brief background about yourself? I’m from a very small town in Arkansas. I lived in multiple states during my childhood but came back home and graduated from Hope High School in 2013. I have two boys.
What is your current role, occupation, business? I'm an insurance agent, a travel agency owner, an exercise shapewear business owner, and a tax professional. I am currently the youngest in Arkansas history to serve as Miller County's NAACP branch president.
What inspired you to start your journey in this field or community service? I have always been raised to serve and help my community. I love it. It's a feeling like no other knowing that you're operating out of kindness and genuineness for the greater good.
Describe a specific project or initiative you’ve been involved in that has made a difference in the community. Coming back home and joining the NAACP has made a significant difference in my life and in the lives of those I'm connecting with. A shift is happening, and I'm so grateful to be a part of it.
Who or what do you consider your biggest inspiration, and why? My biggest inspirations are my ancestors and my godmother. The freedoms we have today are because of what our ancestors endured and experienced. I am forever humbled by their hardships and inspired to accept the torch and continue the race. My godmother is a superwoman. I've never seen someone so passionate and genuine. I aspire daily to follow in her great footsteps.
How do you measure the success of your efforts in the community? A good way to measure success is to look back on what we've come from, whether it's previous meeting notes or actual events. It's also important to ask for feedback.
What challenges have you faced in your journey, and how have you overcome them? I have faced many challenges, long before I could even spell the word "challenges." In life, there are two types of people: victims and overcomers. I am an overcomer; I am the result of "IN SPITE OF."
What advice would you give to someone interested in what you do or in making a difference as a whole? My advice is to be true to who you are. The journey is often lonely, but progress is still made. Pray to God that He leads you to live in your purpose and passion. Do not be dismayed by naysayers; oftentimes, people can only give you what they have.
Are there any organizations or groups you collaborate with? I would love to collaborate with all local organizations and groups. There is strength in numbers, and I know we can do more together.
How can the community support your efforts? We have local monthly meetings on the third Monday of each month and are accepting new members. Word of mouth is powerful, so a quick mention of our NAACP Miller County branch could work wonders.
What exciting events do you have coming up that you’d like our audience to know about? We are hosting our first countywide installation of branch officers on February 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. at North Heights Community School. We will also be hosting a community-wide open forum to discuss issues, concerns, and ideas; details will be announced at a later time.
How do you envision your work evolving in the future? I envision my work continuing to inspire meaningful conversations, drive awareness, and spark change. In the future, I hope it resonates on a deeper level, empowering people to engage, reflect, and take action in ways that create a lasting impact.
What is your favorite thing about Texarkana? The rich history & the potential for even more greatness.
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