We recently had the chance to connect with Monique Robinson Ed.D and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Monique , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m incredibly proud of the Takisha A. Davis Scholarship as we celebrate its fifth year! This initiative has not only provided financial support but has also cultivated a vibrant community of scholars who inspire each other to strive for excellence. It’s heartwarming to see our scholars thrive both academically and personally, creating lasting friendships along the way. Their commitment to success and their willingness to support one another during the competition truly exemplifies the spirit of this scholarship.
The impact of the Takisha A. Davis Scholarship contestant’s extends beyond the individual achievements of our recipients. Watching these talented young individuals come together to share experiences, mentor one another, and build a network grounded in shared goals and aspirations has been profoundly rewarding. Their collective journey reinforces the idea that success is best experienced together, and I’m proud to have played a role in fostering such a supportive and empowering environment. Here’s to many more years of growth and camaraderie! 🎉
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dr. Monique Robinson, the founder of A Better Chance for You Futures Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through education and mentorship. My passion for social justice and equity led me to earn my Doctorate in Education, where I focused on innovative strategies to improve educational access and outcomes for marginalized communities. My commitment to youth development is deeply rooted in my own experiences, and I’ve spent over a decade working in various educational settings, where I’ve made significant contributions to curriculum development and community outreach programs.
Under my leadership, A Better Chance for You Futures Inc. has successfully facilitated numerous initiatives, including scholarship programs, tutoring services, and mentorship training. I strive to create an inspiring approach that fosters resilience and ambition among young people, equipping them with the tools they need to pursue their dreams. As an advocate for youth, I also find joy in sharing my insights on educational reform and community engagement as a speaker at conferences nationwide. My dedication to creating lasting change continues to inspire countless individuals and communities.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
During my third year of teaching, I realized something troubling: several young ladies around me were becoming pregnant at an early age or were affected by sexually transmitted diseases. This realization weighed heavily on my heart, and I couldn’t simply stand by and watch. I gathered a group of community leaders and, together, we launched a program called “Girls Day Out.”
We brought in people from various professions to pour love and mentorship into our young women. I had the honor of standing in front of young women in Dayton, Ohio, sharing my experiences and lessons on how to embrace womanhood. It was a moment that filled me with hope and purpose.
The idea for this program was sparked during a difficult time in my life, as I was navigating the grief of losing my sister. But through that pain, I recognized the struggles many in our community were facing, and I felt called to make a difference. This initiative allowed me not only to honor my sister’s memory but also to uplift the young women in our community.
I’ve always wanted to bring this program back because I believe in its power to change lives. I want to continue being a source of guidance and support for our youth, helping them navigate the challenges they face with confidence and strength.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
In the quiet moments of reflection, as I look back on my journey, I realize that my suffering taught me lessons that success never could. It began during my formative years, where I faced constant challenges—being overlooked in school, struggling to fit in, and sometimes feeling like an outsider in my own life. Each setback felt like a heavy weight, but little did I know, these struggles were shaping my character.
When I was repeatedly passed over for opportunities, I learned resilience. There were days when I felt like giving up, but I discovered an inner strength I didn’t know existed. The countless late nights studying, the perseverance through doubt, and the determination to prove myself became my greatest allies. This resilience was not just about bouncing back; it became a part of my identity.
While success can offer validation and accolades, it was in my struggles that I uncovered empathy and a deeper understanding of others. I have seen friends and peers deal with their own hardships, and my experiences have made me more compassionate. I learned that everyone has their battles, often hidden beneath the surface, and this awareness has fostered strong bonds of support and solidarity.
Suffering also taught me the value of authenticity. In moments of vulnerability, I realized that pretending to be something I’m not only added to my struggles. Embracing my true self—flaws and all—allowed me to connect with others on a genuine level. I found strength in my differences rather than trying to conform to someone else’s expectations.
Lastly, suffering has cultivated gratitude in my heart. I cherish the small victories and the journey itself more than any destination. Each hurdle overcome became a stepping stone, offering invaluable lessons that no success could replace. My suffering has shaped my purpose: to inspire others who find themselves in similar situations, reminding them that their past doesn’t define their future.
Ultimately, while success brings joy, it’s the trials that have carved the most significant truths within me. They remind me every day that growth often springs from discomfort, and in embracing that discomfort, I’ve unlocked a deeper, more resilient feeling in my purpose.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
The people I admire the most for their character, rather than their power, are my parents, Mark and Pamela Davis. As dedicated educators and strong Christians, they have instilled in me invaluable morals and values throughout my life. Their unwavering support has been a constant presence during every step of my journey, celebrating my successes and helping me navigate my failures.
Their love has shaped and molded me into the successful person I am today. I am incredibly grateful to have such remarkable role models who not only taught me the importance of integrity and kindness but also cheered for me no matter what. Their commitment to my growth and happiness has left a lasting impression on my heart, and I will always admire them for the incredible individuals they are.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I deeply understand, and what many people might overlook, is that not everyone will celebrate or appreciate us. It’s a hard truth, but it’s vital to recognize. Even when you put your heart and soul into something, not everyone will recognize or honor that effort. However, what truly matters is finding joy in your mission and knowing that you are striving to please God while pursuing that purpose.
When I focus on the mission within me, regardless of external validation, I find fulfillment. It’s about embracing that calling and understanding that the purpose can be fulfilled even in the quiet moments. So, while applause might be scarce, the true reward lies in the happiness and peace I feel when I align with my values and passions. It’s a personal journey, and as long as I stay committed to what I believe in, that’s what really counts!
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