We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ray Young . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ray below.
Ray , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I’ve tremendous resilience and determination in the face of substantial life challenges and adversity. Growing up in difficult circumstances that included family instability, homelessness, and exposure to street life, I struggled with issues like depression, low self-esteem, and hopelessness that led to dropping out of high school. Yet despite these setbacks and multiple experiences in the juvenile justice system, I persisted in pursuing a better life for himself. My ability to overcome numerous obstacles all while growing up in an environment offering little hope or opportunity is a testament to my strength of spirit, self-belief, and resolute nature to keep pushing forward no matter the circumstances. My journey embodies the human capacity to triumph over hardship through resilience and perseverance.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
MYGO (brand)
I’m the owner and founder of the MYGO brand epitomizes resilience and the ability to overcome challenges. The very name of the brand, standing for “My Greatness Overcomes,” encapsulates the spirit of perseverance in the face of hardship and the determination to let one’s own greatness prevail. My life story has tenaciously built the MYGO brand not in spite of but because of the obstacles faced. By channeling the adversity and setbacks encountered into an enterprise abbreviation that spells out the refusal to be defeated, I’ve created a brand identity rooted in strength, fortitude, and the will to keep fighting no matter the odds. The MYGO brand’s slogan powerfully declares my resilience while sending an inspirational message to connect with others who share the same unrelenting greatness in being able to rise above difficult circumstances.
Children Books:
1. “Malik and the Magic BowTie”
The book is about inspiration, empowerment and a wonderful relationship between a father and son. The storyline is paired with spectacular illustrations from award-winning 3D illustrator, Tyrus Goshay. The book is easy to read and is crafted to encourage you to pursue your goals and dreams. Your greatness can overcome anything!
2. “Malik and the Magic Drumsticks”
Malik, a diligent student passionate about music, discovers his father’s drumming past while cleaning the garage. His father shares the significance of the drumsticks, explaining how they paved the way for him to attend college at an HBCU. Despite initial doubts, Malik starts practicing but struggles until a chance encounter with a marching band inspires him. With dedicated practice, Malik’s drumming skills improve, leading to an unexpected opportunity to showcase his talent. The heartwarming journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance, family support, and the transformative power of music.
Nonprofit:
“Young’s Vision Achievement Consulting”
MISSION
To empower youth from diverse backgrounds and life situations through innovative methods and ideas. To promote achievement, good character, education, and growth & development in all aspects of life.
VISION
Young’s Vision Achievement Consulting envisions communities in which youth are inspired, uplifted, encouraged and enlightened.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Resilience 2. Self-Motivation/Decision-Making
3. Empathy
Identify healthy coping strategies when faced with setbacks or failures. Reflect on times you persevered. Build a reliable support system for encouragement during difficult times. Practice positive self-talk and affirmations to stay motivated in the face of challenges. Set short and longer-term goals you feel intrinsically motivated towards. Track small wins. Eliminate distractions and focus on habits that drive your internal sense of reward. Surround yourself with inspirational people and stories of overcoming odds. Actively listen and engage with people facing social inequities to deeply understand unmet needs; makes you thankful.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am eager to partner with schools, educators, mental health professionals, nonprofit programs, YouTube creators, podcasters, television outlets, and businesses. My goal is to share my story and wisdom to inspire hope, motivation, and resilience in young people facing adversity. Through strategic partnerships, I aim to maximize my positive impact on both individuals and communities. If you feel your organization’s mission aligns with my goals and you are interested in exploring partnership opportunities, please reach out to me directly at [email protected]. I look forward to building connections and uplifting youth/communities together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.klearenvisionation.com
- Instagram: author_ryj
- Facebook: Author Ray Young Jr.
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-youngjr/
- Other: MYGO Clothing/Children Books: www.mygo-brand.com
Image Credits
Book Illustration done by Tyrus Goshay
