As the Milwaukee Community Journal inches closer to celebrate its 50 years, I find myself reflecting not only on where I’ve been, but on who I’ve become.
At 17 years old, I was a recipient of the Milwaukee Community Journal scholarship. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what it meant, but looking back, I know a seed was planted in me. It was a seed rooted in purpose, possibility, and community.
Years later, I had the honor of returning as a keynote speaker for the Journal’s 47th anniversary. The theme that year centered on diamonds and the pressure it takes to become who you’re meant to be. At that point in my life, I was working in television news, telling stories, highlighting voices, and covering the work happening in the community. I had gone through my own seasons of pressure and growth, and I was proud of where I stood…