Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jomil Luna. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jomil, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Embracing Risks: A Journey of Growth and Empowerment

I see risks as a series of unknowns and life is a series of risk aka unknowns Nevertheless, each decision is an opportunity to carve out a unique path. For me, three significant unknowns have defined my journey: falling in love, coming out as HIV positive, and starting my own nonprofit organization. Each of these decisions, steeped in uncertainty, has not only shaped who I am but also underscored the transformative power of taking risks.
Falling in Love

Falling in love is one of the most exhilarating yet daunting yet exciting unknowns one can take. It requires vulnerability, trust, and the willingness to open oneself up to another person fully. When I fell in love, I plunged into the unknown, leaving behind the safety of emotional walls built over years. The risk of heartbreak was ever-present, but the potential for deep connection and mutual growth outweighed the fears.

Love, in its purest form, is a catalyst for personal growth. It challenges us to confront our insecurities, to communicate openly, and to build a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. My journey through love taught me the value of empathy, patience, and resilience. It illuminated the beauty of human connection and the strength that comes from sharing one’s life with another.

Coming Out as HIV Positive

The decision to come out as HIV positive was perhaps the most formidable risk I have ever taken. The stigma surrounding HIV remains a pervasive force, and the fear of rejection and discrimination can be overwhelming. Yet, living in the shadows was not an option for me. I chose to come out not only to reclaim my own narrative but also to advocate for others living with HIV.

This risk was a leap into the unknown, filled with the possibility of judgment and ostracism. However, it also opened the door to immense personal liberation and empowerment. By sharing my truth, I found a community of support and understanding that transcended my fears. Coming out as HIV positive reinforced the importance of authenticity and the power of vulnerability. It allowed me to stand as a beacon of hope and resilience for others facing similar challenges.

Starting My Own Nonprofit

The decision to start my own nonprofit organization marked another pivotal risk in my life. Driven by a passion to make a difference and inspired by my own experiences, I ventured into the realm of social entrepreneurship. The path was fraught with uncertainty, financial instability, and the daunting task of building something from the ground up.

Launching a nonprofit required immense dedication, strategic planning, and an unwavering belief in my mission. It was a leap into uncharted territory, but the potential to impact lives and create positive change propelled me forward. Through this journey, I have learned invaluable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and community building. The experience has been a testament to the fact that meaningful change often arises from the courage to take risks.

The Power of Taking Risks and leaping unto the Unknown

Each of these risks and unknowns—falling in love, coming out as HIV positive, and starting a nonprofit—has been a catalyst for profound personal growth. They have taught me that taking risks, despite the inherent uncertainties, is essential for living a fulfilling and impactful life. Through these experiences, I have discovered the strength within myself and the boundless potential that lies beyond fear.

Taking risks has shown me that growth often emerges from discomfort and that true empowerment comes from embracing one’s vulnerabilities. By stepping into the unknown, we open ourselves to new possibilities, build resilience, and inspire others to do the same. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of risks and the profound lessons they impart.

In a world often governed by fear and caution, I believe that sharing these experiences can encourage others to embrace their own journeys of risk and growth. It is through taking risks that we unlock our full potential, build deeper connections, and create lasting impact. As I continue on this path, I remain committed to advocating for authenticity, resilience, and the courage to take bold steps towards a brighter future.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Embracing Risks: A Journey of Growth and Empowerment

I see risks as a series of unknowns and life is a series of risk aka unknowns Nevertheless, each decision is an opportunity to carve out a unique path. For me, three significant unknowns have defined my journey: falling in love, coming out as HIV positive, and starting my own nonprofit organization. Each of these decisions, steeped in uncertainty, has not only shaped who I am but also underscored the transformative power of taking risks.
Falling in Love

Falling in love is one of the most exhilarating yet daunting yet exciting unknowns one can take. It requires vulnerability, trust, and the willingness to open oneself up to another person fully. When I fell in love, I plunged into the unknown, leaving behind the safety of emotional walls built over years. The risk of heartbreak was ever-present, but the potential for deep connection and mutual growth outweighed the fears.

Love, in its purest form, is a catalyst for personal growth. It challenges us to confront our insecurities, to communicate openly, and to build a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. My journey through love taught me the value of empathy, patience, and resilience. It illuminated the beauty of human connection and the strength that comes from sharing one’s life with another.

Coming Out as HIV Positive

The decision to come out as HIV positive was perhaps the most formidable risk I have ever taken. The stigma surrounding HIV remains a pervasive force, and the fear of rejection and discrimination can be overwhelming. Yet, living in the shadows was not an option for me. I chose to come out not only to reclaim my own narrative but also to advocate for others living with HIV.

This risk was a leap into the unknown, filled with the possibility of judgment and ostracism. However, it also opened the door to immense personal liberation and empowerment. By sharing my truth, I found a community of support and understanding that transcended my fears. Coming out as HIV positive reinforced the importance of authenticity and the power of vulnerability. It allowed me to stand as a beacon of hope and resilience for others facing similar challenges.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The decision to start my own nonprofit organization, The Community Spotlight Foundation (set to launch July 4th 2024), marked another pivotal risk in my life. Driven by a passion to make a difference and inspired by my own experiences, I ventured into the realm of social entrepreneurship. The path was fraught with uncertainty, financial instability, and the daunting task of building something from the ground up.

Launching a nonprofit required immense dedication, strategic planning, and an unwavering belief in my mission. It was a leap into uncharted territory, but the potential to impact lives and create positive change propelled me forward. Through this journey, I have learned invaluable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and community building. The experience has been a testament to the fact that meaningful change often arises from the courage to take risks.

Can you talk to us about your experience with selling businesses?

Each of these risks and unknowns—falling in love, coming out as HIV positive, and starting a nonprofit—has been a catalyst for profound personal growth. They have taught me that taking risks, despite the inherent uncertainties, is essential for living a fulfilling and impactful life. Through these experiences, I have discovered the strength within myself and the boundless potential that lies beyond fear.

Taking risks has shown me that growth often emerges from discomfort and that true empowerment comes from embracing one’s vulnerabilities. By stepping into the unknown, we open ourselves to new possibilities, build resilience, and inspire others to do the same. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of risks and the profound lessons they impart.

In a world often governed by fear and caution, I believe that sharing these experiences can encourage others to embrace their own journeys of risk and growth. It is through taking risks that we unlock our full potential, build deeper connections, and create lasting impact. As I continue on this path, I remain committed to advocating for authenticity, resilience, and the courage to take bold steps towards a brighter future.
“Change is Ok, Lean into the Dream”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Jomil_Luna and @CommunitySpotlightFoundation
• Other: tiktok: @CommunitySpotlightFoundation
  NonProfit Page: https://www.instagram.com/communityspotlightfoundation?igsh=MTlydTJqeWlmcXA0eQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits

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