DR. JOI’S STORY OF RESILIENCE

EMBRACING CHALLENGES, HARNESSING JOY

One of my favorite sayings is, “I am the author of my own life.” The power of who I am and what I want in life lies in the pen. Life resembles a roller coaster ride, filled with ups, downs, curves, and turns, moving forward and sometimes backward. Along this journey, I've had to persevere through challenges and setbacks, from navigating college as a pregnant freshman to assuming my first-time supervisory role and subsequently experiencing a downgrade due to organizational transformation.

When confronted with life's hurdles, I recall the "I Can Mantra" instilled in me by my grandmother. In our family, "I can't" wasn't an option; instead, we embraced "I can, I will, or I'll try." This upbringing instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. I was taught to dream big and understand that dreams can indeed come true.

As a child, I was described as ambitious, beautiful, confident, determined, fearless, intelligent, and strong. I was enough and a source of joy to my family and the world. Growing up, I maintained faith in myself and my abilities.

Despite facing instances where I was overlooked and underestimated, I refused to give up and consistently reaffirmed the "I Can Mantra." I am grateful for the presence of family and friends who reminded me of my name, Joi, which signifies life, hope, happiness, and love. I am living proof that every dream and desire I held as a young girl has manifested in my life. My greatest setbacks and challenges have transformed into my greatest testimonies.

The power to shape my identity and aspirations lies within my grasp. I have chosen to radiate joy in this world and to uplift, equip, and empower others to realize their own greatness.

Relocating to North America as a teenager, in search of a better life, proved to be short-lived, as I found myself moving from one abusive relationship to the next, all while maintaining a highly toxic relationship with my mother.

By all projections, I should have ended up either insane, an addict, in jail, or six feet under. I contemplated suicide several times, but I knew that was not the solution. Had it not been for God's hands on my life,