From Harlem to Headlines

“Success isn’t handed to you; it’s designed, refined and built through every challenge you face.”

Every dream begins somewhere. For me, it started in the heart of Harlem, New York, a neighborhood that taught me the value of resilience, creativity, and grit. It wasn’t the best neighborhood, but growing up there was a blessing in disguise. The sound of basketballs on the pavement and the rhythm of the city became my early blueprint. I learned that success isn’t handed to you; it’s designed, refined, and built through every challenge you face.

When I arrived at Centenary University, I didn’t just see classrooms; I saw a construction site for opportunities. Every event, internship, and conversation was another brick in the foundation I was building. From finding clubs like Rolling Thunders Bowling and Hoops of Culture Basketball to taking on the roles of Student Activities, Career Development, and the Presidential Social Media Internship with Dr. Caldwell, I found ways to merge my passions for leadership, media, and community into one vision: The Storm Brand. 

The Storm isn’t just a name, it's a mindset. It represents motion, transformation, and purpose. What began as a simple nickname has grown into an ecosystem of ideas: Storm League for athletes, Storm Label for creators, and one day, Storm Foundation for education and mentorship. Each branch serves a purpose greater than me to empower others to find their own blueprint. The Storm brand stands for Strong, Tenacious, Outstanding, Resilient, Masterful. 

But no matter how far I go, Harlem stays with me. That drive, that determination, that “make it happen” energy – it’s the same spirit I carry into every project. I want students and athletes who come from environments like mine to know that you don’t have to wait for permission to chase your dreams. You can build the path yourself.

Entrepreneurship, to me, isn’t just about starting something new. It’s about creating impact through innovation. It’s taking your experiences, your culture, and your passions and turning them into platforms that move people forward. 

My blueprint is still unfolding. But if my story can inspire even one student to lead with purpose, one athlete to find confidence beyond the court or field, or one dreamer to see possibilities where others see limits, then the Storm has already made its mark.

Because from Harlem to Centenary, from vision to reality this blueprint was never just about me. It was about proving that with faith, focus, and consistency… anyone can build something that lasts. 

Some people see success as flashy cars, fame, or unlimited money but that’s not what it means to me. True success is inspiring others to be great in their own lane and achieving your goals no matter how many curveballs life throws your way. I always knew my vision, and that success starts with a vision board, a daily reminder of my goals and my mindset.

That’s the millionaire mindset I live by, proving you don’t need a million dollars to be a millionaire. You just need to leave an impact that lasts and touches hearts.