There is a wonderful story in the Philadelphia Inquirer about an elementary school principal named Fatihah Abdur-Rahman. She was a mother at the age of 17 and had a second child at the age of 19. The family struggled to make ends meet and ended up homeless for a period of time. Abdur-Rahman persevered, however, eventually getting a degree, teaching, and working her way up to principal.
What is amazing about her story is not just that she overcame obstacles. What is really amazing is that she is trying to inspire young people in her school and community to be great. She mentors young girls in her building and organizes summer learning activities. Abdur-Rahman is using her struggles and her ability to overcome obstacles to inspire young people. I love the message she shares with some of the girls she mentors: “You were born to win! So go out and be a winner.”
Take a minute to read the article about Fatihah Abdur-Rahman. It is an inspirational story.