From GED to Global Vision: My Journey of Turning My Life Road Map into Success. (Celebrating Myself)

In a world that often tells us we need a specific path to succeed—graduate high school, go straight to college, land the perfect job—it can be easy to feel lost if you don't follow the script. But what if life takes you on a different journey? What if your roadmap is one that you create, with a vision only you can see? This is my story, and I hope it inspires you to build your own path, no matter where you start.

At 16, I made a decision that many might see as a setback: I dropped out of high school. It wasn’t because I didn’t value education, but rather because I craved a different kind of learning. I wanted real-life experiences, the kind that you can’t find in textbooks or exams. Instead of worrying about finals and GPAs, I earned my GED and decided to dive headfirst into the world around me.

My first big step was interning with President Obama's 2012 campaign as part of the Advance Team. Here, I got a front-row seat to history and learned the importance of community, resilience, and passion. It was in these moments—coordinating events, listening to people's stories, and being part of something bigger than myself—that I found my calling. I realized I wanted to make a difference, not just by following a traditional path but by creating a new one.

I have to say, I’m truly proud of what I’ve accomplished. From leading the largest police brutality march in South Carolina to collaborating with incredible people like Tom Steyer, Brandon Upson, Pastor Shane Wall, Pastor Ricky Glenn, State Representative Gilda Cobb-Hunter, my sweet, loving Tootsie, Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, and Bernie Sanders. I’ve had the opportunity to work with amazing companies like IBM, Microsoft, and CBT News. These experiences and opportunities have fueled my passion to make a difference and become a true disruptor in the world.

I know many of you might be thinking, "A GED? Really?" But before you judge, ask yourself: why does it matter so much? A GED is simply a tool, a stepping stone that offers everyone a second chance to build their future. And believe it or not, I’m in good company.

Take John Boehner, the former Speaker of the House—he left high school and earned his GED before continuing his education. John Paul DeJoria, co-founder of Paul Mitchell Systems and Patron Spirits, also dropped out of high school, earned a GED, and went on to build multiple successful businesses. Then there’s Ellen DeGeneres, who left the University of New Orleans, got her GED, and became a powerhouse in entertainment and tech. Even Richard Branson, who dropped out at 16, proved that success isn’t limited to traditional educational paths.

These examples remind us that a GED is not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of resilience. It’s about choosing to keep going, no matter where you started.

Making a Plan, Even When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned

I told myself that by 25, I’d have a clear plan for my future. I’d go to college at 31, launch my own startup, and work towards building a company that would make a global impact. Of course, not everything went as planned. I haven’t bought that 25-bedroom mansion yet (but hey, dreams are free, right?). What I did accomplish was even better: I launched SkyHub Company, a startup focused on technology and innovation, two years earlier than I’d expected.

The experience of building my company from the ground up gave me the confidence I needed. I set a new goal—to establish the World Foundation by 2026, a nonprofit organization aimed at creating sustainable solutions for communities around the globe. This vision is part of a larger roadmap I’ve set for myself, including a run for the United States Senate in 2028, and maybe one day, a campaign for President at age 40.

Turning Setbacks into Strength

When I ran for Congress in South Carolina, I was met with unexpected resistance. The Democratic Party I looked up to turned its back on me because I didn’t fit the mold. I didn’t have a college degree, and in their eyes, that meant I wasn’t qualified. The criticism was harsh and, at times, devastating. It left me questioning myself and my worth.

But instead of giving up, I chose to learn from the experience. I stepped back and focused on self-growth. I learned that I am special, smart, beautiful, and capable of achieving greatness—degree or not. I realized that true success isn’t about fitting into someone else’s expectations; it’s about creating your own narrative and believing in your own potential.

Creating Your Own Roadmap

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that you don’t need anyone’s permission to start building your dreams. Here are a few tips for creating your own roadmap:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Start Over: Dropping out of high school was a tough decision, but it was the right one for me. Sometimes, the biggest leaps require the most faith.
2. Make a Plan, But Stay Flexible: I set goals for myself, but I also allowed space for life to take me in new directions. Launching SkyHub earlier than planned was a happy accident, but it was the result of preparation and opportunity.
3. Find Your Passion and Follow It Relentlessly: Whether it was working on a political campaign or starting my own business, I followed what made my heart race with excitement.
4. Turn Criticism into Motivation: When others doubted me, I used it as fuel to prove them wrong. The obstacles I faced only made me more determined.
5. Invest in Yourself: I took time to work on myself, building my skills, confidence, and vision. Remember that you are your greatest asset.

Looking Ahead

Today, I’m building towards a future that aligns with my vision of making a difference in the world. I’m working on the launch of the World Foundation, setting my sights on running for Senate, and dreaming big about one day becoming President of the United States. It’s a bold plan, but I’m not afraid of the challenge. I’m ready.

So, if you’re reading this and wondering if it’s too late to chase your dreams or if you’ve made too many mistakes to succeed—take a deep breath. It’s never too late to start. You have the power to build your own roadmap, one that leads to a future only you can create.

The journey might not be easy, but it will be worth it. Trust yourself, keep going, and remember: the only limits are the ones you place on yourself.