Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Being able to reflect on my childhood and use my experiences to make sure my son is protected from everything that could prevent him from reaching his full potential is rewarding for me. Exposing my son to as much as possible and allowing him to make choices based on his desires warms my heart. I love to hear my son express joy and gratitude for all things including family and his best friends. At 14 he's everything I imagined he would be down to his hair. He's a great kid.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

Something I'm sure my son will never forget is when I was invited to speak to his 5th grade class for Black History Month. I was selected because of my experience as an arts and culture advocate and artist in our community. He was so excited but shy. I already knew the staff from a previous event where the 8th graders displayed their art in my gallery. I also provide face paint service at events at his school now and I've been invited back to speak every year.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would use the money for a down payment for a house. Our family lost everything during the 2024 flood in San Diego. We've been living with family, it's been so hard on us. We received help from FEMA but it wasn't enough to get us in a stable place. There are homes available in our community which is where we were born and raised. I've been promoting the homes although my family can't afford it yet. I want to see people who have struggled do well. Struggling is so depressing but I won't give up.