I first started boxing at 26. But I have been an athlete and a fighter my whole life. Growing up, academics did not come easy for me. I am dyslexic and have ADHD. In addition to this, I struggled socially with my peers due to my academic impairments and not having many peers who looked like me. I had to fight to prove myself to my teachers, and to find my place in my community. I had many people tell me my dreams were too big. Till this day, I keep proving them wrong. When my ability is underestimated, it inspires me to perform at my best in every aspect of my life. I am able to push myself past the level of comfortability.

I now have my masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy. Today I am employed at Woodbury, Shaker Heights Upper Elementary School, as the 6th grade Student Care Specialist. There I support students, socially and emotionally, to teach them the skills I have in resilience. I tell my students daily, “What you put out to the world, is what the world will give back to you.” As I take boxing to the pro level, I want to continue to strive to support others.