At just 14, I experienced dating violence and sexual abuse by my very first boyfriend. This began a cycle of abusive relationships and trauma that turned my entire life upside down. I struggled with my self-worth, chose severely unhealthy coping habits, and struggled academically. By 18, however, I was optimistic and eager to start a new chapter. Unfortunately, I still didn't know the warning signs of abuse. I lacked a voice and even my own identity. Soon, I was in another abusive relationship. This one was so damaging that I became homeless, penniless, and was forced to drop out of college by my abuser. I only finally escaped after I was severely physically attacked.

I was at rock bottom, yet here, in the very days that followed my attack, I had a sudden moment of intuition. It's like a voice came to me and gave me the clarity I needed to finally change my life. I saw how I'd let others dictate my life. I saw how many opportunities I'd missed, and how I'd never spoken up for myself. I was fed up. And in an instant, I was determined to turn my life around. I began telling my story to raise awareness. I found leadership opportunities, serving on boards and committees. I won the title of Miss New Bedford, promoting domestic violence awareness during my year. I returned to school... and finally graduated as Valedictorian of my class, 7 years after dropping out! I then built a career in victim services, and the justice system. I launched a nonprofit, and today I'm running this beautiful mission-driven career, leveraging my experiences to serve others and make a difference.