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In late August I had the profound honor of receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism in recognition of my work in law, fashion philanthropy, and women’s empowerment; and as the first Black woman to ever win the title of Mrs. Universe.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Atlanta, the star-studded event brought together over 250 luminaries, celebrating over 40 high-profile influencers and celebrities who are shaping the world through their incredible contributions in business, arts, humanitarianism, and public service.
It was a night of celebration, inspiration, and power. Sharing this honor alongside industry titans like Ricky Smiley, Tyrese Gibson, DNice, Claudia Jordon, and other visionaries was a moment that underscored the collective force we bring when we lead with purpose. These extraordinary individuals, just like me, have not only built platforms but have transformed them into powerhouses of impact, driving real, measurable change in communities worldwide.
Empowerment for me is not just a word—it’s a lifelong commitment. It’s the ethos I’ve lived, the core of my purpose. My work extends beyond titles or appearances—it’s about walking in the truth of real-life experiences. It’s about resilience, grit, and a deep, unwavering passion for making a difference.
That’s why I aligned with Dress for Success during my reign as Mrs. Universe in 2022 and 2023. Their mission mirrors my own journey of navigating life’s challenges and rising stronger. As the founder and president of Dress for Success Greater London and Chattanooga, and the ambassador for Dress for Success Singapore, I’ve had the privilege of empowering over 12,000 women globally to reclaim their place in the workforce. Through fundraising efforts, I raised over $500,000 during my reign and led initiatives that generated more than $2.5 million for this life-changing cause. These are not just numbers—they represent real lives transformed and communities lifted.
This authenticity was the defining factor that set me apart during my reign as Mrs. Universe, and it continues to fuel everything I do. I didn’t just wear the crown—I leveraged it, setting new records for appearances and using my platform in ways the system had never seen before.
Having earned both a Juris Doctorate and an MBA through years of rigorous study, I deeply value the significance of traditional academic achievements. But let’s be clear: an Honorary Doctorate is not a substitute for an earned degree—it’s a distinct acknowledgment, honoring a lifetime of service, impact, and excellence in ways that reach beyond the classroom. While academic degrees represent intellectual mastery and the pursuit of knowledge, an Honorary Doctorate celebrates transformational leadership, philanthropy, and empowerment that have positively shaped communities.
Both are equally important but completely different. One reflects academic excellence, and the other reflects a life of purpose-driven impact. I’m proud to have earned both—one through dedication to my legal education, and the other as recognition of the real-world change I’ve been able to make. These honors don’t compete—they complement one another, showcasing the power of both learning and leading with heart.
Adding to this honor, I also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This award isn’t given lightly—it is a testament to a life of service, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to making a difference. It celebrates those who have not only talked the talk but walked the walk, creating lasting, positive change in the lives of countless individuals.
These recognitions are more than accolades—they are a reminder of the power of perseverance, resilience, and the impact of living your purpose. They acknowledge that leading with heart, vision, and integrity is what moves the world forward. And I am beyond grateful, inspired, and energized to continue this work—because we’re just getting started.
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