We recently had the chance to connect with Ashley Monique Robinson and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley Monique , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that’s bringing me joy lately is taking time for relaxation and massages. It allows me to decompress from a busy schedule, recharge, and truly focus on myself. Engaging in self-care has been so important for my overall balance and well-being.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ashley Monique Robinson, and I wear several hats as an author, mentor, entrepreneur, professor, and behavioral coach. I earned my BSW from Alabama State University and went on to receive my MSW from the University of Alabama, where I attended on scholarship. Currently, I’m completing my PhD in Human and Social Services, which reflects my commitment to lifelong learning and service.
In 2018, I founded C.H.A.N.G.E. (Connecting Hands by Accommodating Necessary Growth for Everyone), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving community members in need. What makes C.H.A.N.G.E. unique is that we don’t just provide resources. We focus on holistic growth, mentorship, and empowerment, ensuring that underprivileged families have the tools and support to thrive.
My passion lies in giving back to the community and being a blessing to others whenever I can. Whether through my nonprofit, my entrepreneurial work, or my writing, I want to inspire people to grow, heal, and reach their full potential. Right now, I’m working on expanding programs that focus on youth development, senior wellness, and community resource accessibility; because I believe that when we strengthen individuals, we strengthen the entire community.”**
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that I wasn’t anything special and that my purpose in life was basic and not major. I no longer believe that. Today, I know that my purpose is greater. I’m meant to help others on a huge scale and make a lasting impact in the lives of those I serve.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me lessons that success never could. It taught me to appreciate my wins, no matter how small, because I know the pain and struggle that came before them. It developed a humble nature in me, reminding me that everything I achieve is not just for myself but to help others along the way. Suffering built resilience, patience, and empathy; qualities that success alone could never instill. It showed me the value of perseverance, the importance of gratitude, and the strength that comes from enduring hardships. While success can be rewarding, it was suffering that shaped my character and gave me the wisdom to truly value every blessing.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is creating true community change, because I’ve dedicated my life to helping others and building programs that make a lasting impact. They would also say that generational wealth is important to me, not just for myself, but as a way to teach others how to break cycles of poverty and leave a legacy for their families. And above all, they’d point to my spiritual life, because my faith guides every decision I make, grounds me during challenges, and fuels my passion to serve others. Those three areas, community change, generational wealth, and my spiritual walk are the foundation of who I am and what I strive to accomplish.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think what people may most misunderstand about my legacy is my drive for betterment and change. At times, that determination may come off as controlling, but in reality, it comes from a deep passion to see people and communities thrive. My intentions are rooted in love, service, and the belief that we can all rise higher together. I’ve always pushed for excellence, not because I wanted to control outcomes, but because I wanted to break barriers, open doors, and create opportunities that didn’t exist before. My hope is that when people look back, they’ll see that my persistence was never about power, it was about purpose, and leaving behind something greater than myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Changealabama.org
- Instagram: Change_Alabama
- Facebook: Change Nonprofit Organization
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
Michael Moorer
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