I Carry for Donna

This post is sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Carry Forward 5K, delivered by CSX.

I hope my job transitions to permanent work from home and I never have to go back to the work office- not because of the convenience of working remotely, but because my coworker Donna who passed away in May 2020 won’t be there anymore. Our office is comprised a small mighty team of five women, so one person being gone is very noticeable. Especially Donna because of her huge personality and awesome presence. Every morning she would strut in wearing an immaculate outfit and the cutest pair of heels. She always peeked her head into my office to say “Good Morning!” and see how I’m doing. Then I’d ask about her and there was a 90% chance she would tell me a story about one of her children, Molly or Sam who are her world. In remembrance of her, I am participating in the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Carry Forward 5K, delivered by CSX.

The WWP has a mission to honor and empower service members who have obtained a physical or mental injury while serving in the military on or after September 11, 2001. The programs they provided free of charge assist veterans with physical & mental health, financial wellness, independence, and connecting them with supportive communities.

I participated in the WWP Carry Forward 5K Jacksonville, FL race virtually in honor of Donna who was an Army Veteran. If you would like to join me in supporting this mission, click here to register and use the code ICARRY5 to save $5 on your registration. Want to still support but aren’t able to run? You can contribute to my fundraising page here.

Donna’s heart had no limits to how much it loved and served people. After surviving breast cancer she worked as an advocate for others living with chronic illnesses. She served as Vice President for Tigerlily Foundation, founded Kill The Beast LLC, pushed for legislation on Capitol Hill, worked as Director of Grassroots Advocacy at National Patient Advocate Foundation, and volunteered as the Virginia State Lead for the American Cancer Society. She would coach and hold the hands of so many patients as she empowered them to find the courage to tell their stories and advocate for themselves. After her passing, many of the volunteers she worked with shared with us how Donna helped them believe in their own capabilities and they don’t know how they would have found their power without her.

I Carry for Donna to illuminate the impact she had on our her community and the legacy she left for others to carry.

I’m asking you to join me in helping put the mission in motion. Take action for injured veterans. Give what you can. Every bit helps transform the way warriors are empowered, employed, and engaged in our communities.

Thank you for supporting my way of honoring Donna and the lifesaving programs for wounded warriors and their families.

How Right Now

Loneliness was something I've never felt before this year and it hit me hard. Have you felt lonely during 2020? I'm an extrovert so I went from hanging out with loved ones daily to being quarantined right after having four wisdom teeth removed. With my family being miles away in New York, the epicenter of Covid cases- I haven't seen my parents in almost a year.

In the beginning of this pandemic every time I went on Facebook I would see a post about someone losing a loved one to Covid complications and it struck me with intense anxiety and fear. I took a break from social media just to avoid the constant bombarding of this negativity. After a couple of months I knew something had to change because I couldn’t continue to feel this way. So I started looking into coping mechanisms and what I could do to lift my spirits and get back to my positive state of mind.

When I found out about the #HowRightNow initiative that focuses on helping people become more resilient during this time I knew it was exactly what I needed. They have resources and suggested coping skills to deal with all types of emotions that are normal to feel right now; loneliness, worry, depression, grief, anger. Visit their website, http://bit.ly/HRN-E to take a deep dive into the resources they have. I know it has been a game-changer for me and I hope it is for you too.

*This post is sponsored in partnership with How Right Now. All opinions are my own. I appreciate partnering with organizations that align with my values.

International Women's Day Forum with AT&T

I've always loved celebrating holidays that honor women, whether it is International Women's Day or International Day of The Girl, I'm here for all of it because I love the energy that unites us around the world to take action and proudly proclaim what we believe in. This year's International Women's Day was especially important to me because it reminded me of the video I created honoring my Nana last year for YouTube's #HerVoiceIsMyVoice IWD campaign. When I made it, my Nana was fine and in good health, then she suddenly passed away 42 days later. So the video and holiday hold a special place in my heart.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the U.S. Department of State recently hosted their 8th annual International Women’s Day Forum, Partner With Purpose: Business for Gender Equality. It was an honor to celebrate IWD by attending this event thanks to one of the awesome sponsors, AT&T. The sessions collectively focused on building a foundation and nourishing a culture shift that fosters a thriving legacy. Businesses provide legacies- whether it's a mom & pop's shop that's passed to the next generation, or a technology start-up that instills entrepreneurship skills in the employees, or a corporation that includes gender equality in their values and ensures the future leadership adheres.

This year's theme, #PressForProgress was interwoven throughout the forum, highlighting the importance of motivating friends, colleagues and communities to think, act, and be gender inclusive. This is especially integral in business because the balance of both men and women in leadership helps bring innovation and a different perspective to the decision making table.

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Check out my Instagram highlight story titled, "#IWD2018" to see live footage from the event!

The forum reignited my passion for mentoring and entrepreneurship. I walked away feeling blessed to be a woman. Although it comes with its own set of challenges, I sat in a room full of women who continue to fight the good fight. Here are some ways you can make a difference.

1. Mentor- a common theme during the forum was the importance of representation in leadership and STEM. Seeing others succeed is helpful because it allows youth to realize it's possible for them to do the same. Would you like to mentor but don't know where to start? Check out these awesome organizations below that have volunteer and mentor opportunities!

• Black Girls Code
• Girls Who Code
• EMPOwERgirlz by YWCA
• Sasha Bruce Youthwork
• Latino Student Fund
• 4-H
• Asian American LEAD
• Generation Hope
• Project Girl Mentoring Program 
• Access Youth
• Girl Talk Mentoring Program by My Girlfriend's House
• SisterMentors by EduSEED
• Girls Prep Inc. 

2. Social Responsibility- the forum highlighted major companies including Intel Corporation, AT&T, Microsoft, and Lockheed Martin that realize the importance of becoming involved in their community. You can become an asset to your company by encouraging them to use their influence to create women and girls empowerment initiatives their employees can participate in. Below are some examples of organizations that are social responsibility trailblazers.

AT&T Aspire- My love for AT&T started as a child because they were my telephone provider. I remember seeing their blue logo every month as I watched my Nana pay the bills. As an adult, I was elated to hear about their expansion as a leader not only technology, but within the community as well. It was an honor to work with them for their Inspired Mobility and 28 Days: Black History Month campaigns. Knowing their philanthropic spirit, I wasn't surprised when I learned about their partnerships with Girls Who Code and Black Girls Code.  AT&T Aspire focuses on creating connections that drive innovation in education. AT&T is dedicated to causes that matter. They even have a 10 year roadmap for their Connect to Good campaign showing how they will use the power of their network to build a better tomorrow.

 Intel® She Will Connect-  Intel works to close gender gaps in technology and promotes gender equality by empowering girls and women. She Will Connect's innovative model includes teaching digital literacy skills, building infrastructure, supplying income generation opportunities, and cultivating a social network. Intel has a goal of reaching 5 million women in Africa by the end of 2020.

Microsoft DigiGirlz- Microsoft is another love of mine because I received a full scholarship from The Gates Millennium Scholars Program,  funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Most people think Bill Gates = Microsoft = Technology which results in them failing to realize that their mission is about more than technology, they impact the world through Microsoft Philanthropies.  DigiGirlz hosts events and camps for middle and high school girls to connect with employees, explore hands-on computer workshops, and learn about the endless possibilities of careers in technology. 

Lockheed Martin & Girls Inc.- Lockheed Martin & Girls Inc. built a thriving partnership because they realized the importance of connecting employees with girls to help build their interest and confidence in pursuing STEM education and careers. Lockheed Martin has a diverse group of partners who are all united for the common mission of pioneering STEM education outreach initiatives for K-12 students. By serving as mentors and being present in classrooms, they hope to create pipelines for our next generation of technology leaders.

3. Stay Informed & Share the Knowledge- if you are reading this and thinking, "Obviously Ashley, this is a given- I share information all the time," then send this post to three people and share it on social media so I know it's real! If you're reading this and thinking, "Thanks Ashley for the reminder, I need to do better," then subscribe to at least two organizations below so you can stay updated on the impact they are having in the lives of women and girls globally.

• Global Partnership for Education
• Cherie Blair Foundation for Women
• SheWorx
• Malala Fund
• Women's Environment & Development Organization
• YWCA
• Girls on the Run
• Every Mother Counts
• Built by Girls
• Girl Up
• She Should Run

Now Tell Me What's On Your Mind: What are you going to do to #PressforProgress and advance girls and women's empowerment?

#BeBoldForChange on International Women’s Day 2017

It's an honor to be born during Women's Herstory Month. The high energy shared this month to advance gender parity is electrifying. Today, March 8 the world unites to celebrate International Women's Day (IWD). Although some of us are unfamiliar with this day of honor, it has been observed since the early 1900's. It is a global day dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

This year's theme, #BeBoldForChange urges people to commit to taking action that will truly drive the greatest change for women. The World Economic Forum predicts the gender gap won't close entirely until 2186.Who has time to wait that long? Not me! My future grandchildren might not even be around to enjoy the sweetness of a closed gender gap. Therefore change needs to happen now! "Change" and "Make a difference" sounds catchy but what does that even entail? It all depends on what type of fight are you passionate about. IWD highlights several areas: challenge bias/inequality, campaign against violence, forge women's advancement, celebrate women's achievement, and champion women's education. Education is my fight. Whether it is through being an ambassador for the Malala Fund or leading workshops for women to show them how to embrace their mental health so they can succeed in college.

For International Women's Day I honor my Nana for teaching me the importance of education. My house wasn't a happy place because it reminded me of my struggles, so school has always been a safe haven for me. It was a distraction from my worries. I know I have to do my part because there are more than 62 million girls around the world who are not in school.

Find a fight that resonates with you and dedicate yourself to it. Ways you can get involved: Social Media: use the #BeBoldForChange selfie cards for social media amplification. Volunteer: After you identify the cause you love. Contact organizations who are already doing the work to see how you can help. Share the Knowledge: Tweet a link to this blog post. Tell a friend about International Women's Day. Now that you know, it's time to share the information with others. Visuals are Queen: Indulge in these awesome videos from organizations who make women's rights a priority.

Now Tell Me What's On Your Mind: Which cause speaks to you the most? Let me know in the comment section below!

5 Quotes for Growth from #NABJNAHJ16 Convention #InspiredMobility

When I'm confused and can't see what is next on my path, I always ask God to send me clarity and confirmation. It can be as simple as seeing an inspirational quote on Instagram that speaks to my situation or finding $40 on a busy NYC street (yes, this has really happened to me). Regardless of the form in which God decides to send His message, I always listen and express my gratitude for the plan He has for my life. A couple of months ago, I was discouraged about the future of Don't Die Afraid but after becoming an ambassador for AT&T's #InspiredMobility I realized the importance of my message. My message truly is a catalyst for change and I need to own it!

"My message truly is a catalyst for change and I need to own it! #DontDieAfraid"

During the NABJ & NAHJ Convention (#NABJNAHJ16) God sent me clarity and confirmation through the workshops, especially during the #InspiredMobility chat with Alfred Edmond Jr. and Rev. Run. Every time I interacted with someone, it felt like God was speaking right through them. It was actually pretty bizarre how accurate the messaging and timing was. Below are 5 quotes that spoke to my soul during #NABJNAHJ16 that can be helpful if you are experiencing a stage of uncertainty or growth.

1. "When you are copying someone else you are giving God the wrong answer- he asked you a different question! Be authentic." -Rev. Run

♦ Moment of Clarity: Frequently we get caught up in looking at the blessings others are receiving, so we want to do exactly what they are doing in order to gain success. Then we have the nerve to get frustrated when we don't see results. We fail to realize that each of us are walking on tailor-made path. We would see success if we listen to the plans God has for us instead of trying to covet the blessings of those around us.

I constantly struggle with this so hearing this word from Rev. Run snapped me into grind mode. I have to keep working hard for what God has in store for me.

2. "Don't ask God for it if you don't think he's going to give you the answer." -Rev. Run

"Don't ask God for it if you don't think he's going to give you the answer @RevRunWisdom"

♦ Moment of Confirmation: Asking God to show up in your life but not trusting that He will show out, is a slap in His face. Commit to do your best work, write down your intentions of what you want God to do in your life, and then leave the rest to Him.

I've been dealing with some turmoil the past month and I went to the Lord in tears, and He asked me, "Do you not believe that I am, who I say I am?" So I had to bounce back to reality and respond, "Lord, You are who You say You are." That sentence brought a sense of calmness over me because I had no choice but to trust Him.

Clearly, Rev. Run was dropping gems, click to read more of his inspirational quotes.

3. "AT&T found 8-in-10 (80%) people say mobile technology facilitates inspiration." -AT&T #InspiredMobility Report

♦ Moment of Confirmation: If you use your social media platform to inspire others- KEEP INSPIRING! Even if you don't feel like you get enough likes, comments, followers, retweets, or shares, know that you are still contributing to the positive power of technology. It's astonishing that AT&T's report discovered 80% of people are receiving inspiration from their mobile devices! Technology and social media are often classified as making us more dependent, weakening our interpersonal skills, and creating jealousy because it only reveals highlight reels; but this study reveals that there is inspirational content that is helping readers.

This report confirmed that I have to keep building my Resilient Family and the Don't Die Afraid empire because people need a haven they can depend on that inspires them to realize their circumstances don't hinder their future.

4. "It could have been me." -Jarrett Hill

♦ Moment of Clarity: In the midst of our trials, we frequently forget about the sunshine we’ve experienced because all we can see in front of us is stormy clouds. Jarrett Hill received the spotlight for revealing that Melania Trump stole a whole paragraph from First Lady Michelle Obama's 2008 speech. Before the accolades, Jarrett was dealing with unemployment and the uncertainty of knowing the trajectory of his future. When seeing the struggles of others around him, Jarrett reminded himself, "It could have been me."

That one simple realization helped him see his blessings in spite of the hard times. Currently, I'm a full time content creator, not by choice- but instead by necessity, as I look for a job. I'm in the same position Jarrett was months ago. Do I feel discouraged every once in a while? Yeah, but testimonies like his help me remain resilient.

5. "20% of health is in the doctors office, 80% is everywhere else. A culture of health is more than your interactions in the health care system. #CloseHealthGaps" -Dr. Dwayne Proctor

♦ Moment of Confirmation:We get caught up in the misconception that health is something static, solely existing in our doctor's hands. When the truth is: racism, residential segregation, education policy,income distribution, urban planning, and tons of other social determinants have the greatest impact on our health. This is why it is imperative to advocate for quality in all these aspects of our lives.

I expected #NABJNAHJ16 to provide knowledge only about journalism and new media. When I saw the abundance of sessions on health, I was ecstatic and reassured I will soon find a way to combine my Broadcast Journalism B.A. and my Master of Public Health.

I'm grateful for this opportunity and the relationships I formed with the other AT&T influencers *pictured above* who poured into my life. This experience at #NABJNAHJ16 with AT&T's Inspired Mobility refueled me to continue to do do what I love, by inspiring my Resilient Family.

Now Tell Me What's On Your Mind: How do you use technology to find inspiration? You can join in the conversation by sharing an inspirational thought, photo, meme or video and using the hashtag #InspiredMobility.

Disclosure: Thank you to AT&T for sponsoring this post. You my Resilient Family know that all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the companies that value my unique voice!