We caught up with the brilliant and insightful TerryAnn S. Howell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi TerryAnn S., really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Growing up in Spanish Town, Jamaica, I witnessed the struggle of my family and my community firsthand. From watching loved ones endure the harsh realities of life, such as death and prison to witnessing the pain of my mother working tirelessly to provide for my siblings and me, every experience shaped the purpose I now hold dear.
In the midst of adversity, I realized that my calling was to help others. It wasn’t just about lifting myself up, but about extending a hand to those who faced similar challenges. My journey led me through law school, where I battled imposter syndrome and financial hardship, even experiencing homelessness at one point. Yet, through every trial, my purpose burned brighter.
I recognized that my purpose wasn’t just about personal success, but about paving the way for others like me – individuals with passion and purpose but lacking support and resources. It was about reaching out to students who felt marginalized, who feared judgment because of their backgrounds and family circumstances.
Thus, I founded my non-profit organization, driven by the desire to empower those who felt lost or overlooked. I share my story, and that of my family, with students, not to dwell on past struggles, but to illuminate the path forward. Through mentorship and advocacy, I strive to instill in them the belief that they, too, can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
Every day, I am reminded of the importance of my purpose as I witness the transformation in the lives of those I support. It’s not just about changing individual trajectories; it’s about building a community of resilience and empowerment. In lifting others, I find fulfillment, knowing that the struggles I faced were not in vain – they were the fuel that ignited my purpose, driving me to make a difference in the lives of others.
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?
At the heart of everything I do, whether in my law firm, my real estate business, or through my nonprofit organization, Grow, Glow, Giveback Corporation, is a commitment to excellence and a dedication to making a positive impact. As the founder of The Law Office of TerryAnn S. Howell, P.A., I’ve spent the last two years immersed in the world of litigation, specializing in Commercial, Civil, Real Estate, and now Immigration law. I also have experience in criminal defense through my former role as assistant public defender in Miami, employment law, personal injury and homeowner’s insurance.
What excites me most about my legal practice is the opportunity to advocate fiercely for my clients and see them succeed. I have a deep passion for litigation and the thrill of going to trial, but what truly drives me is the satisfaction of achieving positive results for those I represent. Witnessing my clients win in every aspect of their lives is immensely gratifying, and it’s this drive that led me to expand into real estate law. I recognized the need to not only resolve legal disputes but also to prevent them, which is why I obtained my real estate license. By doing so, I aim to empower my clients to navigate the complexities of the real estate market with confidence, avoiding pitfalls that could have been avoided with proper guidance.
In addition to my legal practice, I am also deeply involved in my nonprofit, Grow, Glow, Giveback Corporation. Our mission is to break down barriers to education for low-income individuals by addressing not only financial hurdles but also non-educational barriers such as access to mental health services, mentors, food, and clean clothes. Similarly, I am also the current president of the Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. Bar Association, the first and largest non-profit legal association of Black attorneys in Miami and we focus on empowering our community, ensuring inclusion and pursuing justice through advocacy. Having experienced firsthand the transformative power of receiving support when I needed it most, I am driven by the desire to pay it forward and provide others with the same opportunities that helped shape my own success both through my own non-profit and others.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a legacy of giving back in every aspect of my life. Whether through my legal work or my philanthropic endeavors, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Honor, heart, and hope are not just words to me – they are guiding principles that shape my brand and define the way I approach both my professional and personal endeavors.
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, three qualities that have been instrumental in shaping my path are resilience, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Resilience has been crucial in overcoming the obstacles and setbacks I encountered along the way. Whether facing financial struggles, imposter syndrome, or personal challenges, resilience helped me push forward, adapt, and grow stronger in the face of adversity. My advice to those early in their journey is to cultivate resilience by embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth, staying focused on long-term goals, and seeking support from mentors and peers during challenging times.
Empathy has been central to my ability to connect with others and understand their needs and experiences. It enabled me to not only empathize with the struggles of my family and community but also to advocate effectively for my clients and support those in need through my nonprofit work. For those starting their journey, I recommend developing empathy by actively listening to others, seeking diverse perspectives, and engaging in meaningful interactions that foster understanding and compassion.
Continuous learning has been essential in expanding my knowledge, skills, and opportunities. Whether pursuing my legal career or establishing my nonprofit organization, I recognized the importance of staying curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. My advice to newcomers is to embrace lifelong learning by seeking out mentors, pursuing educational opportunities, and remaining humble enough to acknowledge areas for growth and improvement.
In summary, resilience, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning have been key pillars of my journey. By cultivating these qualities, individuals can navigate challenges with grace, connect authentically with others, and seize opportunities for personal and professional development. Remember, success is not defined by the absence of obstacles but by the ability to overcome them with resilience, empathy, and a hunger for knowledge.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client embodies resilience, determination, and a drive to make a positive impact. Whether an individual facing legal challenges or a small business owner striving for growth, I am drawn to clients who share my values of honor, heart, and hope.
For individuals seeking legal representation, my ideal client is someone who is willing to collaborate, communicate openly, and trust in the expertise and dedication I bring to their case. They understand the importance of advocacy and are committed to achieving positive outcomes, even in the face of adversity. Most importantly, they recognize the value of empathy and understanding in navigating legal challenges, allowing us to work together as partners in pursuit of justice.
Similarly, as someone passionate about supporting small businesses, my ideal client is an entrepreneur who is driven by a vision for success and growth. They are proactive, innovative, and eager to seize opportunities for development and expansion. Whether navigating legal matters, such as contracts, disputes, or employee related issues or seeking strategic guidance to optimize their operations, they approach their business with a growth mindset and a willingness to invest in their future.
Ultimately, my goal is not only to provide exceptional legal services but also to build lasting partnerships with clients who share my commitment to excellence and community impact. Together, we can overcome obstacles, achieve success, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of both individuals and businesses alike.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tshowell.com/
- Instagram: tshowell_law
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082833567041&mibextid=dGKdO6
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/law-office-of-terryann-s-howell
