November: A Month of New Beginnings
?? Here are my top 5 highlights! ??
1. I kicked off November with a major milestone—moving into my dream building! A year ago, I stood at my sister Tyler’s penthouse window, dreaming of living like her by 26. Now at 26, I’m just three floors shy of the penthouses, and it feels incredible to see my hard work pay off. My dogs are happy, I’m happy, and the energy here is unmatched. Looking back, I’m proud of my 24-year-old self for getting her first apartment after facing homelessness post-active duty, but I’m so glad I’ve moved on to this new chapter. Huge thanks to my friends and family for helping me make the move! ??
2. I’m honored to join the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council and help drive change for veterans' mental health across Illinois. I’m forever grateful to Senator Mike Porfirio for recommending me, Frank Gutierrez, President of the Veterans Chamber of Commerce, for his mentorship, and Governor Pritzker and his team for their dedication to improving veterans' quality of life. ?? I’m excited to save lives and make an impact for generations to come. A formal post about this is on the way!
3. I was finally promoted to SGT in the military. ??Though I’m medically retired, this promotion means a lot to me. I sacrificed a lot to get my career back on track, and this feels like the closure I needed to close that chapter. I’ve accepted that I’ll never serve in the military again, but my purpose now is clear: to continue serving my country and community in ways God has planned for me.
4. Business-wise: I’m not working with clients at the moment. Nonetheless, I’m proud to share that I made more money last quarter than ever before and had the chance to bring fellow veteran entrepreneurs into the projects long term. Now, my focus is on mastering RFP responses to land bigger projects, build relationships, and create greater impact. Excited to have been accepted to the National Veteran Institute For Procurement Start program after a year on the waitlist! Special thanks to my friend Shaun Redden for sharing his expertise as I navigate RFPs. ?????? Plus, I’m overjoyed to be a finalist for the 2024 Veteran Social Summit Pitch Competition to raise funds for The Black Veterans Expo.
5. Choosing just one more highlight feels impossible, so I’ll say this: I’m endlessly grateful for every opportunity to share my story and make a difference. As a child, I dreamed of a better life, living it now and laying a foundation for others to do the same feels surreal.
November has been nothing short of incredible. Like October, I know December will be another month of growth and transition into the new year. While this season comes with its mental health challenges, I’m confident I’ll come out stronger. I just ask y’all to give me some grace!
#chicagosfavoriteveteran #standingonbigbusiness
