We were lucky to catch up with Kyara Murry Ofuani recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kyara, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Developing my confidence and self-esteem has been a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. There have been several strategies and practices that have played a significant role in shaping my confidence, particularly as a confident Black woman.
First and foremost, spirituality has been a vital aspect of my journey. Connecting with my spirituality has provided me with a sense of purpose, inner strength, and resilience. Through prayer, meditation, and reflection, I have been able to tap into a higher power and gain a deeper understanding of myself. This connection has helped me recognize my inherent worth and value as a human being, which has boosted my confidence and self-esteem.
Affirmations have also been an integral part of my confidence-building process. I regularly repeat positive and empowering affirmations that align with my identity as a confident Black woman. Affirmations such as “I am strong, capable, and deserving of success,” or “I embrace my unique beauty and celebrate my heritage” have been transformative in shifting my mindset and reinforcing positive beliefs about myself.
Believing in myself has played a crucial role in building my confidence. It involves recognizing my strengths, talents, and accomplishments. I have learned to embrace my unique qualities and appreciate the diverse perspectives and experiences that I bring to the table as a confident Black woman. By celebrating my achievements, both big and small, I have cultivated a sense of self-assurance and belief in my abilities.
Additionally, surrounding myself with a supportive community has been instrumental in my confidence and self-esteem journey. I have sought out mentors, role models, and like-minded individuals who understand and appreciate the challenges and triumphs of being a confident Black woman. Their encouragement, guidance, and shared experiences have provided me with a strong support system and a sense of belonging, which has boosted my confidence and helped me navigate various situations with grace and authenticity.
Lastly, engaging in continuous personal development has been essential. I am committed to lifelong learning, exploring new experiences, and expanding my knowledge. By challenging myself and stepping outside of my comfort zone, I have proven to myself that I am capable of growth and success. Each new accomplishment or skill acquired has further bolstered my confidence and self-esteem.
In conclusion, my confidence and self-esteem have been cultivated through a combination of spirituality, affirmations, self-belief, community support, and continuous personal growth. These methods have empowered me as a confident Black woman, allowing me to navigate life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and an unwavering belief in my worth and abilities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I lead a multifaceted and purpose-driven life, making a difference through various roles and endeavors. Professionally, I am the founder of Legally Black Law Firm, where I serve as a nonprofit civil rights attorney. Through my law firm, I am dedicated to advocating for justice and equality, particularly within marginalized communities. I focus on addressing issues related to social justice, racial equality, and human rights. It is both exciting and fulfilling to use the law as a powerful tool to bring about positive change in society.
In addition to my legal practice, I am also deeply involved in the nonprofit sector. I founded and oversee Freedom of Faith Food Bank, a remarkable organization that addresses the critical issue of food insecurity. We work tirelessly to combat food deserts and promote food justice, particularly within the Black community. Our mission is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to nutritious and culturally relevant food. It is a cause close to my heart, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity.
Moreover, I am a staunch advocate for environmental health and sustainability. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental issues on marginalized communities, I actively work towards creating a more equitable and eco-conscious future. By championing initiatives that address environmental justice, I strive to ensure that the Black community has access to clean air, water, and safe living environments.
Furthermore, my dedication to combating food deserts and homelessness in the Black community is unwavering. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a safe place to call home and access to nutritious food. Through partnerships, community engagement, and targeted initiatives, I work towards providing sustainable solutions to these pressing challenges. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and advocating for policies that promote affordable housing and economic empowerment, I aim to uplift and empower individuals and families in need.
The synergy between Legally Black Law Firm, Freedom of Faith Food Bank, and my broader commitment to environmental health, food justice, and combating food deserts and homelessness allows me to make a holistic impact. I am constantly seeking new ways to collaborate, innovate, and expand the reach of my work. Together with like-minded individuals and organizations, we can create lasting change and build a more just and equitable society for all.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, there are three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have been most impactful:
1. Self-awareness: Developing self-awareness has been crucial in understanding my strengths, weaknesses, values, and aspirations. It has allowed me to align my choices and actions with my authentic self. My advice to those beginning their journey is to take time for self-reflection and introspection. Engage in activities like journaling, meditation, or seeking feedback from trusted mentors or friends. By understanding yourself better, you can make informed decisions and pursue paths that resonate with your true passions and talents.
2. Resilience: Resilience has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and bouncing back from setbacks. It’s essential to recognize that setbacks and failures are inevitable parts of any journey. My advice is to embrace a growth mindset and view obstacles as opportunities for learning and growth. Cultivate resilience by staying committed to your goals, seeking support when needed, and maintaining a positive mindset. Remember that setbacks are temporary, and with resilience, you can navigate through them and come out stronger.
3. Continuous learning: Embracing a mindset of continuous learning has been vital for my growth and success. The world is constantly evolving, and staying curious and adaptable is key. Seek out new knowledge, explore different perspectives, and be open to feedback and constructive criticism. Invest in your personal and professional development through books, courses, workshops, or networking opportunities. Never underestimate the power of expanding your knowledge and skills—it will equip you with the tools to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.
My advice to those starting their journey is to be patient and kind to yourself. Remember that personal growth is a journey, and it takes time to develop these qualities and skills. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and stay focused on continuous improvement. Surround yourself with a supportive community that uplifts and encourages you. And most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to navigate your journey successfully.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
“One book that has significantly influenced my personal development is the Old Testament of the Bible. Its rich narratives, profound teachings, and timeless wisdom have had a profound impact on shaping my values and guiding my actions. The Old Testament has provided me with a treasure trove of valuable insights, and I’ll share a few nuggets of wisdom that have been particularly impactful for me.
One powerful teaching that has resonated with me is the story of Joseph. Despite facing numerous hardships, including betrayal and imprisonment, Joseph maintained his integrity and demonstrated forgiveness. This story has taught me the importance of resilience, forgiveness, and maintaining a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.
Another powerful lesson comes from the book of Proverbs. The verse ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight’ (Proverbs 3:5-6) has been a guiding principle in my life. It reminds me to trust in a higher power and seek guidance in all aspects of my life, believing that the path will unfold before me.
The Old Testament also teaches the value of justice and compassion. The verse ‘He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God’ (Micah 6:8) has been a constant reminder for me to strive for justice, extend mercy to others, and maintain humility in my actions and relationships.
Furthermore, the story of Moses and the Ten Commandments has left a profound impact on me. The commandments, such as ‘You shall not steal’ and ‘You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor,’ have shaped my sense of ethics and the importance of honesty, integrity, and respect for others.
In conclusion, the Old Testament of the Bible has been a source of timeless wisdom that has shaped my values, actions, and perspectives. Its stories, teachings, and commandments have guided me to seek resilience, forgiveness, trust in a higher power, justice, compassion, and ethical conduct. The Old Testament continues to inspire me to live a purposeful and virtuous life.”
Contact Info:
- Website: Drkyaramurry.com
- Instagram: @dr.kyofuani
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyara.murry?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyara-murry-ofuani-esq-a86695111?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
