*Note: Woman Wednesday is a part of our blog. Each Woman Wednesday post will feature a woman who would like to share information in the hopes of inspiring and motivating other women. Comments are welcome below.
Q and A with Chante, Richmond, Virginia
“The only excuses you have are the ones you make.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am passionate about service. I love to help people in any way I can. I’m very passionate about women’s outreach. I believe that I have experiences that I can share with other women that can help them. I believe in being the change I want to see in the world. I currently work as an admin assistant with a third party workforce program for women offenders in the prison system. The majority of the women there have gone through some type of substance abuse, which goes right along with my personal journey. I am currently working on developing a women’s program called “Victors!” Its purpose is to reach women like me in ways I wish I could’ve been reached. I also have my own event and floral design business called C-Unique Designs.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: My younger years were pretty rough. Before the age of 15, I was raped by 4 different men. I was so scared to tell anyone; I just kept it all to myself and tried to handle the issues on my own. Leaving bruises, hickeys, and hand prints on me. I felt useless and helpless. My parents divorced when I was very young and could not get along to save their lives. I tried my hand at sports, but I was bullied a lot until about my junior year of high school. I started off as a social butterfly that could mingle with any group of people. I knew all the jocks, the basketball players, the cheerleaders, the goths, the preppy kids, the nerds, and the “popular kids.” But life kinda has a way of throwing a curve ball at you. I now spend my days rebuilding my life. I believe that I am a victor and not a victim. I specifically remember one very hard time in my childhood. At the age of about 11 yrs old, I was admitted to Tucker’s program (suicide watch) at the hospital. I spent a week there, which felt like a lifetime. I connected with other men and women that also wanted to end it all. This is where I decided people like me need help. Not hospitalization. We’re not all the same, and we’re not science projects, test dummies, or animals. Long story short: you choose what defines you. My situations and experiences do not define me. Anything is possible, and the only excuses you have are the ones you make.
Pictured: Chante and her fiancé celebrating their recent engagement.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: Something valuable I’ve learned is to play the cards you’re dealt with. I’ve heard many people say “Control what you can and learn to overcome what you can’t control.” That is so profound to me because yes, there are times we won’t be able to control some of the things that happen in our lives, but we must keep moving and keep going. I’d like for others to learn that you can do whatever you put your mind to. You’re only a statistic if you allow yourself to be! No matter what kind of curve ball life throws at you, you can get through it. Also, it is very important to know when to get help!
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism to me means power! I do indeed believe that women have a lot harder of a time getting things done because of all they are expected to do. I believe that this is also a superpower. Women can do unbelievable things! I love leaving a shocked expression on people’s faces.
I’d love to connect with you!
Check out C-Unique Designs in my floral and event design page.
Thoughts, questions, or comments?
Comment below! 🙂
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