We connected with some of the most resilient folks in the community and one of the most insightful questions we had an opportunity to ask centered around whether there was ever a time they almost gave up. Highlighting some of the responses below.
Ren Hall
Simply put, yes—I recently thought I had reached the end of my dance journey. Any dancer knows how elusive this career can be. Joining a company, or even just being consistently employed as a dancer, is rare. So many talented artists end up stopping or changing paths altogether because of how competitive and unpredictable the field is. Read more>>
Chiquanda “CJ” Johnson
I gave up more than once. At 19, I was diagnosed with PCOS and told I wouldn’t have children. I lost twin girls, and after years of trying, I stopped believing. It wasn’t until I began adoption paperwork that I learned I was pregnant with my first child. Read more>>
Asukwo Effiom
Yes, there have been many times I almost gave up. In those moments, I misunderstood what true success really means. I got caught up in unnecessary company and competitions, even thinking wealth alone defined success. There were also immature times when I found myself waiting for the world’s approval instead of trusting my own path. But I’ve since grown from those lessons. Read more>>
Torrie ‘El CapeTeaux’ Ferguson
Yes, there have been several times in my life in general not only in my career. I’m a survivor of domestic violence in my late 20s I found myself in a situation that caused my attempt at wanting to end it all but.. I’m so glad God had favor over me because look at me now the other side was way more worth it. Read more>>
Tim Palazzolo
Years ago, I sank a ton of time and labor into a vehicle to try and get the company name out there, build my brand, and earn some awards. After the car did what I had intended it to do, the customer went back on his word as far as repayment for me and my business and it was a definite gut punch. Read more>>
Morgan B.
I give up all the time LOL, but I still keep going. Fashion is something that will not let me go even if I wanted to. It honestly just keeps pulling at my heart strings because I believe it’s something in it for me that God wants me to see. Read more>>
Damilola Akinlotan
Being pregnant was the hardest thing I’ve dealt with. The situation broke me completely, It affected my health and mindset, it seemed like life was over for me, but I overcame the heartache. Many people hide things behind a smile, you never know until you ask. I’m grateful that I overcame and saw the light. Good things come to those who wait. Read more>>
Madd Hatta
I’ve learned that no matter how tough life gets, giving up is never an option. Even in the most frustrating moments, I push through the battles and hardships, knowing they’re shaping me into something stronger. Every setback becomes fuel, every challenge a lesson, and every struggle proof that perseverance always pays off. My story is built on resilience, not retreat. Read more>>
