I pride myself on being unique and different. Most teens my age are worried about having the latest name brand clothing, shoes, or gadgets. But not me! I want to help and inspire people and change the world for the better. As a former foster child and current adoptee, I understand how it feels to have less than others and adjusting to new and unfamiliar environments. I learned that I can help people through my creativity and unique gifts. I did this by becoming a young published author and a kidpreneur.
At age nine, I became a published author of my first book “The Adventures of FireMan” which is about two boys who discover they have super powers and use them to fight crime. I made a short film of this book and also ended up on the news to promote it. By age 10 I published three books; with one being a bestseller.
I’ve been on the news several times and in newspapers and magazine publications about being a young published author and have won numerous young author awards. I dedicated my first book to President Barack Obama because I met him at age nine. I sent him the book and he wrote me back thanking me and telling me that he’s proud of me and he knows that I will change the world. That’s when I also became a youth philanthropist and motivational/inspirational speaker.
After the success of my first book I started going to schools, churches, and youth organizations to speak to the youth about following their dreams no matter what age you are. In 2021 at age 15, I became a kidpreneur. I created a curl crème/hair butter for boys and men called Krulle pronounced “kru la la” meaning curls in Afrikaans (a South African language).
My philanthropy started when I published my first book. I would give a portion of my proceeds to St. Ann’s Children’s, Youth and Families because I was a foster baby there. Every year I participate in their silent auction fundraiser and donate all my book sale money. In 2018, I began giving back to DC Child and Family Services Agency foster care children because I was once in the system as a foster child before I was adopted. I created and donated I Care Comfort Bags which consists of toiletries, stuffed animals, and other items of comfort. I do this every year in December around my birthday. This prompted me to start my non-profit organization “I Care Comfort Foundation.” I have won numerous awards for being a youth philanthropist that I am very proud of. I love giving back. It gives me a warm feeling inside that I can help someone in need.
My motto and message to youth of all ages is “You’re never too young to do anything.
