About the Author

Born in Washington, D.C., in 1986, my life began against impossible odds, surviving a gunshot wound while still in the womb. Raised by my grandparents in a city torn apart by the crack epidemic, I learned early lessons in loyalty and survival after the premature death of my mother.

I found discipline and direction in the JROTC program at Dunbar Senior High School, which paved the way for my service in the U.S. Army and the DC National Guard. As a soldier, I served in domestic disaster relief missions and completed a challenging 15-month deployment to Iraq.

After my military service, I faced the immense challenge of reintegrating into civilian life, navigating the painful dissolution of my marriage and the loss of my father, all while striving to be a present father to my own children.

My journey from brokenness to healing led me to a profound spiritual awakening. Today, I am an ordained youth pastor, a dedicated community leader, and a small business owner. I use my incredible life experiences to mentor and minister to at-risk youth, turning my past pain into a powerful purpose.

I live in the D.C. area, where I continue to build a legacy of hope and redemption for my family and community.