We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shumonte Cooper. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shumonte below.
Shumonte , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
When I embarked on this journey of establishing Christ is Relief Inc and Difference Makers LLC organizations, it wasn’t about accolades or recognition. It was driven by a deep-seated belief that every individual, irrespective of their geographical location, economic status, or cultural background, deserves a chance at life, dignity, and hope.
Our Legacy Vision:
Restoring Humanity: In a world often marred by conflicts, natural disasters, and inequalities, we envisioned our organizations as a beacon of hope. We seek to leave behind a legacy of rapid, compassionate, and effective responses that prioritize human dignity above all else.
Empowerment Through Partnership: Beyond providing immediate relief, our true mission is to empower affected communities to rebuild, self-sustain, and thrive. By fostering partnerships and collaboration, we aim to cultivate resilience and ensuring long-term positive impact.
Innovation and Adaptability: The challenges faced in humanitarian work are ever evolving. We strive to be at the forefront of innovation – whether that’s in the methods we use, the technology we adopt, or the strategies we employ. Our legacy would ideally be one where we continuously adapted and evolved to meet the needs of those we serve best.
When I’m gone, if people remember our work, I hope they’d say, “They didn’t just bring aid; they brought hope, respect, and empowerment. They saw beyond the immediate crisis and worked towards creating a world where communities could rise stronger from adversities.”
More than anything, I wish to be remembered not for the number of relief missions we undertook or the funds we raised but for the genuine difference we made in the lives of individuals. If our legacy is a world where even one person feels safer, more hopeful, and empowered because of our efforts, then our mission has truly succeeded.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
From the intense moments on the battlefields as a military veteran to the vast canvas of words as a published author, my life has been a story of resilience, purpose, and fervor. My retirement from the armed forces wasn’t a conclusion; it was the prologue to a journey filled with meaningful endeavors, each resonating with my unwavering commitment to the community and upliftment.
Being a Certified Emergency Management Instructor, I’ve come to deeply understand the weight of unexpected challenges and the critical need for preparedness. This knowledge has shaped my path, enabling me to serve as both an educator and a guide, preparing many to face emergencies with competence and confidence.
The allure of entrepreneurship called out to me, leading to the birth of ‘Cooper Enterprise’. This wasn’t just a business—it’s a dream in action, a legacy I envision for the future.
One of my proudest achievements has been the ‘Difference Makers™’ initiative. Through this project, I’ve aimed to spotlight the unsung heroes among us, illuminating the countless ways each one can create impactful ripples in their surroundings.
My drive to make a difference culminated in the foundation of ‘Christ is Relief Inc.’ More than a mere Disaster Relief Organization, it’s the very heartbeat of my vision and feels like an extension of a higher purpose. With every program we launch and every hand we extend, our mission remains clear: to provide comfort, solace, and hope to those wrestling with the profound impact of unforeseen catastrophes.
In 2023, I was deeply humbled to receive the Presidential Lifetime Volunteer Service Award. It stands as a testament to a life dedicated to service and giving back.
In every realm I’ve ventured into, I’ve strived to leave a lasting impression. My journey is a testament to the idea that with passion, clarity of vision, and sheer determination, one can break boundaries and create enduring change.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Absolutely. My journey of resilience truly began on the battlefields, a world away from the comforts of home. One fateful day, while serving in combat, I sustained injuries that doctors said would leave lasting scars, both physically and mentally. Those harrowing moments of pain and the subsequent months of recovery were undoubtedly the darkest periods of my life. Every movement was a reminder of that day, and the path to recuperation seemed insurmountably long.
However, those very injuries, which initially appeared to be my biggest setbacks, became the foundation of my resilience. As I lay in the hospital bed, I realized that I had two choices: to let the injuries define the rest of my life or to rise above them. I chose the latter.
Every physical therapy session, every struggle to regain mobility, every night battling inner demons, taught me a valuable lesson: the human spirit is indefatigable. With each small victory, my belief in myself grew, and I recognized the incredible power of determination and self-belief.
Drawing inspiration from that tumultuous period, I ventured into the world of entrepreneurship. Founding a business, as any entrepreneur will tell you, is a roller-coaster ride filled with highs and lows. There were days when the weight of responsibilities and the challenges of a startup felt overwhelming, reminiscent of those painful days in recovery. But the lessons I learned from my injuries kept me going. If I could overcome the physical and mental toll of combat injuries, I could certainly navigate the world of business.
Today, as I look back, I realize that my resilience was forged in the crucible of adversity. Overcoming combat injuries was not just about physical recovery; it was a journey of discovering my inner strength, understanding the depths of human willpower, and realizing that setbacks can often be the set-ups for greater achievements. Through founding my business and facing its inherent challenges, I’ve taken those lessons from the battlefield and applied them, proving that with resilience, one can achieve anything.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Managing a team and maintaining high morale, especially in the volatile world of business, is both an art and a science. My experiences on the battlefield and in the trenches of entrepreneurship have taught me invaluable lessons that I’ve applied in team dynamics.
Empathy is Key: Just as I had to understand my own pains and struggles to heal and move forward, it’s crucial to genuinely understand and empathize with your team members. Everyone has their own battles, and as a leader, being attuned to those challenges can make a world of difference.
Open Communication: The moments when I felt most isolated during my recovery were when I had no one to talk to. Ensure there’s always a channel for open dialogue within your team. Encourage feedback, address concerns, and most importantly, listen.
Lead by Example: Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s also about pushing forward in the face of adversity. Be the exemplar of the values, work ethic, and attitude you wish to see in your team. When they see you navigating challenges with grace and determination, it instills a sense of confidence and motivation.
Celebrate Small Wins: The journey of my recovery was filled with small milestones. Each step forward, no matter how tiny, was a victory. In the business world, it’s essential to celebrate the small wins just as much as the big ones. It keeps the momentum going and boosts team morale.
Invest in Their Growth: Just as I had to relearn and adapt after my injuries, it’s vital to invest in the continuous growth and development of your team members. Provide them with opportunities to learn, evolve, and better themselves. This not only enhances their skills but also shows that you care about their personal and professional progression.
Foster a Positive Environment: Positivity was my beacon during the darkest times. Strive to create an environment where positivity and encouragement are the norms. Recognize efforts, appreciate hard work, and always remind your team of the bigger vision and purpose.
In conclusion, the essence of managing a team and maintaining high morale is deeply rooted in understanding, mutual respect, and shared vision. Every challenge, every setback, and every victory is a collective experience. And just as I learned from my journey of resilience, it’s not just about facing adversities; it’s about growing through them, together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.christisrelief.org
- Instagram: @Shumonte_Cooper
- Linkedin: Dr. Shumonte Cooper