As we emphasize the history and achievements of African Americans during this month, let us learn from the following individuals who stand out for their amazing impact with boldness and bravery.
Leaders can have lots of titles and roles.
From the head of a company to the head of the PTA, from the most seasoned executive to the title-less one who embodies the pathfinder qualities despite the words printed on their business card.
A favorite quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:
“I came to the conclusion that there is an existential moment in your life when you must decide to speak for yourself; nobody else can speak for you.”
The following men and women decided to speak for themselves. They chose to show deep courage despite their hardships. I find inspiration in each one of them for various reasons.
All of them have one thing in common: hope. Hope in how they were living. Hope that what they were doing would make a difference for themselves. Hope that why they faced these circumstances would be used for good in affecting others.
Join me on a journey through the highlight reel of four remarkable individuals.
Maya Angelou
- Smart
- Authentic
- Encouraging
She fought for justice, education, and equality. Although known best for her novel “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”, she leaves behind amazing artistic work while challenging us to be the good so we bring out the good in others.
She speaks of bringing everyone who has ever been kind to her when she goes on stage. She never felt alone. She challenges us to be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud. Despite all of our differences, she charges us with being a blessing to somebody no matter if that person is like us or different.
Stuart Scott
- Style
- Attitude
- Likeability
Stuart Scott left an indelible mark on the sportscasting industry far greater than his coined phrase “Boo-yah!”. His unique way of blending hip hop in his broadcasting allowed him to stand out as one who embraced who he was and didn’t change for others.
His approachability was highly regarded. He fought for who he was and won. He was endearing, smart, and loveable.
“ESPN and everyone in the sports world have lost a true friend and a uniquely inspirational figure in Stuart Scott,” said ESPN president John Skipper.
Watch this speech given 6 months ago, and be moved.
Stuart Scott, you are missed. Grateful for the impact you’ve made.
Nelson Mandela
- Revolutionary
- Humanitarian
- Rebel
Bold yet complex words describe him. He was passionate about his convictions and went great lengths for his beliefs. After enduring years in prison he tirelessly worked to negotiate a peaceful end to institutionalized racism, earning him a 1993 Nobel Peace Prize. Mandela was his nation’s first black president from 1994 to 1999.
He encourages us to live by rising every time we fall. Falling will happen. Get back up. Every time. Will you accept the challenge?
Wilma Rudolph
- Pioneer
- Athlete
- Courageous
Wilma was struck with polio at a young age. “My doctor told me I would never walk again,” she wrote. “My mother told me I would. I believed my mother.” Five years after removing her leg brace, she became an Olympian at age 16. Four years passed. After returning home from her second Olympics (and three gold medals later), she insisted her homecoming parade and gala banquet be integrated. These were the first fully integrated municipal events in the city’s history.
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.” – Wilma Rudolph
As we celebrate these remarkable leaders who have no doubt made an impact for all, will you accept this challenge?
Go out of your way to make more positive human interaction happen.