They even hanged on public transport because they could not pay for the fare, trying to prevent security officers to prevent fines.
Maturing under such challenging scenarios required Mona to mature quickly. At a young age, she handled part-time tasks to help support her household while also concentrating on her studies.The experience taught her obligation, strength, and thankfulness. She later on discussed that her youth has a hard time shaped her frame of mind and offered her the strength to keep progressing no matter the circumstances.Mona credits many people who thought in her capacity and assisted shape her journey. One of them was her first-grade instructor, Ms. Mayor, who recognized her scholastic potential and moved her directly to third grade.Another coach, Ms. Lissner, helped channel Mona’s energy
into favorable activities, while her high school basketball coach, Mr. Morton, guided and encouraged her like a father. She also received support from organizations such as the Boys &
Girls Clubs of America and UMOM New Day Centers, which provided resources and chances that assisted her grow.Mona’s leadership and determination soon started drawing in national attention. At simply 17 years of ages, she
was named National Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.Her accomplishment resulted in a special recognition by Barack Obama at the Oval Office. She was later on selected as the youngest member of a U.S. Presidential Social Work Committee, serving together with other prominent leaders.By the age of 18, Mona was also called one of the”Most Influential Black Women “by Essence Magazine, appearing along with global figures like Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama.Her achievements also earned her over$100,000 in scholarships, media functions, and opportunities to deal with prominent personalities.Mona later on pursued higher education at Arizona State University, studying at Barrett, The Formality College and the W.P. Carey School of Service, where she made her bachelor’s degree in Service Management
. She went on to complete her master’s degree, continuing her academic journey with determination. At the age of 27, Mona earned a PhD in Organizational Leadership from Grand Canyon University.During this period, she was likewise running the Inspired by Mona Foundation and traveling internationally as an international inspirational speaker, motivating young people with her story.Reflecting on her journey, Mona explained that her inspiration at first came from the desire to
assist her household live a much better life.Today, her purpose is much bigger. She now focuses on guiding young people, motivating them to conquer difficulties, and assisting them believe in their possible to change the world.Mona likewise expressed deep thankfulness to her mother, whom she referred to as a strong and resourceful survivor who kept the family together
throughout their hardest years.