CUT FROM A DIFFERENT CLOTH (1)

I have always known that my journey was unique. That I was cut from a different cloth.

The fabric of my life is stitched together by experiences that shaped me; Each moment a thread of resilience, determination, purpose, and a passion for positive change and impact.

Observing the unusual patterns and cycles recurring in my life, questioning my essence, and wondering why my life seemed so distinct from others, I often felt like an outsider in my own story.

My journey has been anything but ordinary; shaped by trials, triumphs, and revelations that demanded I look deeper into my existence. Each challenge I faced carried with it a question:

Why me?

Why now?

Who can I tell?

Who can I trust?

What does this mean?

Why am I here?

What is the essence of my life?

Will it get better? or Will it remain like this forever?

How do I get out of this?

Is this the end of the road for me?

What lesson am I supposed to learn from this experience?

The answers, though painful and difficult to uncover, became the foundation of my strength and purpose.

I’ve learned to face adversity with courage and grace, using each thread of adversity to stitch together a narrative of transformation and growth. The fabric of my life is not just resilient; it’s unyielding, defying the wear and tear of trials that once threatened to unravel me.

A CHILDHOOD STOLEN

I’ve walked the path of pain and struggle, of insecurities and trust issues.

I’ve felt crushed beyond my self-esteem on multiple occasions.

I faced sexual molestation at the hands of my step-cousin at about age five turning six.

Again, I faced the same and in a worse manner, from my own biological father, from the age of nine until nineteen.

The family that was supposed to be my safe space became the genesis of calamity and trauma in my life.

SURVIVING AGAINST ALL ODDS

Every new year presented its own challenges. Without a voice and always feeling stuck, as though the only thing moving forward in my life was my age, I’m not sure how I did it, but somehow, I found a fire within.

I’ve healed my inner child. I've triumphed over trauma, what once seemed impossible to overcome. I have survived untimely death through:

• Surgery, accidents, and illnesses (2000, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015–2023).
• Lupus (2015–2016).
• Blood cancer (2016 & 2023).
• Severe spinal canal stenosis with cauda equina syndrome (2023).

I’ve overcome suicidal thoughts, which I attempted multiple times right from childhood into adulthood. How foolish and desperate I was. As a child, I constantly planned my escape, whether it was away from home or from this world. I even drank kerosene several times, hoping it would end my life.

REFINED BY TRIALS

Shaped by experiences that tested my spirit but never broke me, I carry the scars of life-threatening battles, the dark depths of suicide, and even the pain of sexual abuse inflicted by the very man, who was meant to be my protector, my own biological father.

At some point, I almost lost touch with who I was. I was not only beginning to lose my zeal for life but also my identity. I didn't have a normal childhood, and I didn't have a voice.

Notwithstanding, these trials did not define me; they refined me. The toughest moments have only deepened my strength and commitment to making an impact.

FINDING LIGHT IN DARKNESS

I have learned many lessons from my journey. But most especially, I’ve learned that no matter how dark life gets, there’s always a light waiting at the end; there’s always a way through.

Through the pain and challenges, I found a fire within; a flame that refused to be extinguished. It became my guiding light, illuminating a path out of despair. It wasn’t just about surviving but learning to thrive, to rise above the ashes of my struggles and create something beautiful.

This fire became my strength, my purpose, and my anchor, reminding me that even in the deepest darkness, I hold the power to ignite a spark of hope and transformation.

ANCHORED BY GRACE

I’m only human but sometimes I wonder if I possess any superpowers

Then, when I pause and reflect on the intricate details of my life, I realize that I’ve come this far,?only because my life is anchored by God’s mercy and grace.

You see, I’m not an expert at this thing called life. But I can tell you this: After decades of feeling hopeless and helpless, I finally found the silver lining.

I decoded the mysteries surrounding my life and my birth. In doing so, I found my voice. When I found my voice, I discovered my purpose. And when I discovered my purpose, my identity was restored.

WALKING WITH GOD WITH UTMOST GRATITUDE

I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m thankful to ‘EL ROI’; “The God that sees me”, for His unconditional love. For always having my back and walking with me through the valley of the shadow of death.

Everything happened the way it was meant to happen. The enemy thought he had me, But God permitted it for a greater purpose.

Every event in my life, the good, the bad and the ugly, though the enemy meant it for evil, God is using it for His glory. It was all part of His masterplan to mold me into His masterpiece. And when I came to understand this, I found an indescribable peace in my heart; the kind of peace that only He can give.

SCARS THAT SPEAK

My journey hasn’t been easy, but I wear my scars as a reminder that I always emerge stronger, bolder, and more determined to create lasting change and impact.

My scars are my crown; they are symbols of resilience, triumph and glory. They remind me of the tests, trials and tribulations I have faced and overcome. They stand as an attestation to every battle I fought, won and conquered.

If you're reading this, whatever your pain, whatever your scars, whatever your story may be, I want you to know this: I see you. I hear you. I validate you!

Your feelings are valid! Your story is your power! You are far more powerful than you realize. You are unique, unrepeatable and irreplaceable!

A RIPPLE EFFECT OF CHANGE

It is my greatest desire to create a ripple effect of positive change and impact in the vast ocean of humanity.

I’m passionate about empowering women, young people, and vulnerable communities; Because I know what it feels like to stand on the edge and find a way forward, on the path to healing, forgiveness, and triumphing over trauma; tapping into your divine essence and birthing purpose, ultimately creating a ripple effect of positive change and impact.

RESILIENCE MEETS SUSTAINABILITY

The cloth I’m cut from is not easily torn. It is resilient, unyielding, and fueled by a mission to create meaningful impact and make a real difference in the world.

Whether through:

• My work in ESG and sustainability consulting, shaped by my Master’s in Diplomacy and World Affairs, with a focus on International Relations and Sustainable Development, or
• Transformational life coaching and motivational speaking,

I bring my whole self to the table, authentically, purposefully and without compromise.

PROUD TO BE ME

Growing up, I often felt like a misfit, someone who didn't quite belong. But as I reflect on my life, I realize now that my feeling of being different was not a flaw, but a crucial part of God's intentional design, his master plan for my life. It was His methodology, shaping me into the woman I am today.

I am Janice Firebrand, and I am proud to be cut from a different cloth; one stitched together with resilience, passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of transformation. Every struggle, every trial, and every victory has woven me into the woman I’ve become.

I am proud of the woman I have become. I have reclaimed my power, and now use my voice to amplify those who feel voiceless, particularly, vulnerable girls and youths. Leading with purpose, grace, and an unshakable commitment, I am catalyzing and empowering women to lead their own journeys, boldly, sustainably and unapologetically.

This is my world, one where resilience meets sustainability, and where transformation is not just a possibility, but a reality.

Look out for the next edition, where I'll be sharing the invaluable lessons learned from my journey and how I was able to face obstacles head-on, navigating them with purpose and strength.

With resilience, purpose, and the heart of sustainability,

Janice Firebrand.

Salud!