We asked some very thoughtful members of our community to reflect on what they’ve learned from their heroes.

Rochelle Houseworth

I am very grateful to have had multiple heroes throughout different stages of my life. My parents for the way they have pushed me to be my best, my husband for being my biggest supporter/rock, my sister & sister in-law for lifting me up through tough times, and for the friends that have brought so much brightness into my life. However, my biggest hero is definitely my Mawmaw (Grandma). Growing up, I was very fortunate to live a few homes down from my grandparents and spend a lot of time with them. Read more>>

Natasha Brown- Wainwright

I went from being bullied to being the “Brittle Queen.” My name is Natasha and I am the CEO of Natasha’s Just Brittle/ B’More Made with Pride. People who know my story know that Natasha’s Just Brittle began by teaching my daycare children a lesson in business, but the origins truly began in the summer of 1983 when I tried to take my life because I was being bullied. My Grandma intervened and told me three things that day that would shape me into the woman I am. Read more>>

Ashley Sherrell

My hero is my grandmother, as I grew up I began to admire the way she gracefully handled any situation. The biggest lesson I’ve learned from her is having faith, and that believing in yourself can take you as far as you want to go. My grandmother instilled in me that “I can do anything that I put my mind to”. Any obstacle you face should be handled with grace, not panicked. She’s a huge influence on my career today. Read more>>

Matthew Covington

I’ll have to say my hero is going to be my grandparents. I’ve learned more lessons from them then anyone. From anything about life, work, health, etc. They have taught me how to work hard, how to not be lazy, that no problem is the end of the world. They moved to Memphis with 3 kids, very young 20’s, and with less than $80 dollars to their name. I have so much respect for them doing that. They went to work and both were entrepreneurs. Read more>>

Marquis Whitting

My hero is my father. It’s a no brainer, I wouldn’t be the man I am without him. Some lessons I learned from him is how to work hard, go after what is that I want, never give up no matter hard it gets and most importantly how to be a man. He always supported me in whatever I wanted to do. The journey that I’ve been on has been easier to navigate through with him on my side. Not too many black males have their father in their life. It’s a blessing and something I will never take for granted. Read more>>

Danicia Tate

Our Mother is my Hero. Growing up and throughout our lives, she has always wanted better for us. A better childhood, a better environment and amongst other things, a better education. If you know our Mom, then you know she’s the “Real Deal Holy field”. Mom didn’t mess around when it came to our Education. We were actually homeschooled as well and this is where I found my love for books, reading and writing. Read more>>