My Purpose Is Serving Others
And with MY STORY I'm able to make this happen!
How GRIT AND THE VILLAGE SUPPORTED MY JOURNEY!
My name is Dr. India White. As a first-generation scholar, I know the power of a community. As a result of mentors and people paying it forward in my life, I am a grateful 3x graduate of the University of Florida, a mother of 2, a TEDx Speaker, National Education Consultant, Professional Speaker and trainer on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, #1 Best-Selling Author, Author of 60+ books, former co-author of Math and You, and now K-12 Author with Savvas Learning, a K-12 Math Publishing company!
The kindness of strangers like my mentor and programs like the YMCA, BBBS, and McKnight Foundation has lifted me out of hopelessness, depression and shattered dreams. I am going to talk about how important the work is that every mentor does everyday. Mentors can change a child’s life forever. That’s what my mentor Sharon did for me.
The
Typical Scene
I was living in low income housing with my mother, a single parent of 10 children. I was unsure of my future, whether there would be any hope for me as a successful citizen in society. We had little resources, no mentors, only despair.
Abuse and Despair
My mother did the best she could to raise us as a single mom, but fell short due to her sickness of alcoholism. Compassion was scarce, but she did the best she could with little support from the community.
The only thing I had to give me hope was school. I always looked forward to leaving home so I could pour myself into academics, activities and friends.
I Have
to Do My
Pre-Calculus Homework!!
I remember there were days when I had to do my precalculus homework and my mother didn’t care. She told me to turn off all electricity. I coudln’t listen to music, watch TV or even have the lights on. Many nights she would walk into my room and turn off the lights. I would tell her that I was doing my pre-calculus homework and she would order me to keep the lights off or else. So, I looked around and saw the star light. I knew that the starlight was enough light for me to finish my pre-calculus homework. I was determined to do my homework regardless of my circumstances. So, it became a routine for a couple of months for me to do my pre-calculus homework in the starlight. I harnessed the grit within to succeed. I made a choice to be an achiever. All I knew was that I desired to do my best, so that’s what I continued to do by staying gritty!
All I want for Christmas is…..
a Home
On Christmas Eve, 2001, at 16, my mother kicked me out of the house. To the streets I went, only to be denied by my father who was a last hope for me. He told the cop that beckoned him to take me in that I wasn’t his daughter, and that they could do what they want with me. That’s when I called the YMCA Homeless Shelter my home. In spite of the hardships I faced, I made up my mind that I would fight the urge to be average. I decided that I had to put on the strength that I possessed within. I called on Jesus and I knew he would help me be everything that I intended to be.
In the homeless shelter, I had a choice. I could make excuses and get through life on those excuses, or I could see it as an opportunity to start fresh and climb high into success. I made up my mind that I would not let that particular moment mold my life. I decided to try until something changed instead of failing to try. I knew that nothing coming from outside of me could destroy me and that I was my ultimate destroyer. So I chose to aim for the sky and thrive through grit!
GRIT IS IT!
I AIMED FOR THE SKY!
As mentioned in my TEDx Talk, "The Power of Grit", I got involved in 12 extracurricular activities, enrolled in many AP and honors courses and worked part time at Publix. Life was getting better until my grandmother, two uncles, and my brother all died within a month. Then, I said, ‘If I can get through this season in my life, I know taht I will be able to conquer anything else with God’s help. I graduated with a 4.25 GPA from Sarasota High School with Top Honors, then enrolled into the University of Florida where I majored in math and minored in saxophone performance. I was able to pay it forward as a math teacher, earning the award of Teacher of the Year in two different school districts. Then, I decided to pay it forward as a math coach and an administrator to assist with helping underserved youth graduate. Now, I have several mentess and graduates who I make myself available to so they can be successful. All of this is possible because I had one person to help build up my self-effiacy and help me learn how to cultivate grit in a time when my dreams were lost in chaos. My mentor Sharon was that person!
BE ENCOURAGED TEACHERS, PRINCIPALS AND MENTORS!!
I met my mentor Sharon 12 years ago. She was a life saver, that ONE PERSON I could depend on in my confusion. Our first few months were rocky because I didn’t understand her kindness and her love towards me at first. Eventually, I came around. Now, I call her Mama Sharon. She has a heart that flows with love and care for me. She wasn’t afraid to show that to me, and that’s why I will always love her no matter what.
As I went through my transition in the homeless shelter, my mentor Sharon wasn’t allowed to see me, but she did her best to keep in touch. That’s when I met my second mentor, Vickie Oldham, CEO of Newtown Alive. It was a part of a divine plan that I couldn’t see then, but that I now understand. Vickie helped me evolve into a young professional woman, and supported me every step of the way. She was and still is a connector. From helping me with scholarship interviews, writing resumes, and being present as I graduated from college, she has remained loyal. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. They remain in my village today.
THE IMPACTING POWER OF ONE PERSON
All it took was love from one person, to break through the cold shell of my heart, and to bring forth a smile out of me while cutlivating grit into greatness.
Now, I am now giving back to students and teachers as a lead as a National Education Consultant and Author for SAVVAS Learning. I am one person in the community willing to pay it forward so other first-generation learners can fulfill their dreams.
I also remain connected with the Gates Millennium Scholars, McKnight Doctoral Fellows and also as a board member for Hillsborough County African American Task Force. I am also grateful to be a part of the Florida Council of Teachers in Mathematic's Equity and Access Committee, leading the work of guiding teachers in math classes across the state.
BREAK THE CYCLE OF POVERTY!
As I share my story and expertise as an educational leaders in school districts and educational conferences across the nation, I continue to break the cycle of poverty. Because of genuine love from one person’s heart, that love has filled my heart and now is being poured into the hearts of my students and my family. The love cycle has expanded exponentially, all because of one person.
As a published author of 56+ books, TEDx Speaker, math textbook author, and a mother of 2 beautiful children, I am committed to giving pack so that children will become productive citizens of society. They deserve our best!
Let’s all become that one person to change someone’s life forever!!
Take Grit with You!
10 Reasons why Dr. India White is an effective leader and why people learn from her:
1. Dr. India White's leadership style is inclusive and collaborative, encouraging individuals to actively participate and contribute to their own growth.
2. She possesses exceptional communication skills, making it easy for people to understand and connect with her message.
3. Dr. White's extensive experience in the field of psychology allows her to provide valuable insights and guidance to those seeking personal growth.
4. She is a compassionate and empathetic leader, creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences.
5. Dr. India White's TEDxOcala Talk on "The Power of Grit" showcases her ability to deliver impactful and thought-provoking presentations.
6. She is a role model for resilience and perseverance, having overcome personal challenges and setbacks in her own life.
7. Dr. White serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance and inspiration in their personal and professional lives.
8. She has a unique ability to break down complex concepts into easily understandable and relatable terms, making her teachings accessible to a wide audience.
9. Dr. India White's leadership has been recognized by UF Gators40Under40, highlighting her exceptional contributions and impact in her field.
10. She is dedicated to empowering others, helping them discover their inner strength and potential.
20 Testimonials about Dr. India White's Work and Speaking skills:
1. "Dr. India White's guidance and support have been instrumental in my personal growth journey. Her ability to listen without judgment and provide practical advice has truly made a difference in my life." - Sarah M.
2. "Attending Dr. White's workshop was a transformative experience. Her passion for helping others and her deep knowledge of psychology created a safe space for self-reflection and growth." - John D.
3. "Dr. India White's TEDxOcala Talk on 'The Power of Grit' was incredibly inspiring. Her personal stories and insights resonated deeply with me, and I left feeling motivated to overcome any obstacles in my path." - Emily R.
4. "I have been following Dr. White's work through her website, and it has been a game-changer for me. Her articles and resources have provided me with practical tools to navigate challenges and improve my overall well-being." - David S.
5. "Dr. India White's leadership style is truly empowering. She creates a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. I have learned so much from her and am grateful for her guidance." - Lisa T.
6. "India's ability to communicate complex psychological concepts in a relatable manner is truly remarkable. Her teachings have helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and others." - Michael B.
7. "I attended one of Dr. India White's seminars, and it was a transformative experience. Her passion, knowledge, and ability to connect with the audience left a lasting impact on me." - Samantha L.
8. " resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Her personal journey serves as a reminder that we can overcome any challenges with the right mindset and support." - Robert K.
9. "I have had the privilege of working with Dr. India White, and her leadership style is exceptional. She encourages collaboration, fosters a positive work environment, and brings out the best in her team." - Jennifer H.
10. "Dr. White's ability to combine her expertise in psychology with real-life experiences makes her teachings relatable and impactful. I have learned so much from her and continue to be inspired by her work." - Mark W.
11. "Dr. India White's speaking skills are exceptional. Her ability to captivate the audience with her powerful storytelling and relatable experiences is truly remarkable." - Corey M.
12. "I have attended several of Dr. White's workshops, and her work has had a profound impact on my life. Her insights and guidance have helped me overcome setbacks and achieve personal growth." - John D.
13. "Dr. India White's guidance and support have been instrumental in my personal growth journey. Her ability to listen without judgment and provide practical advice has truly made a difference in my life." - Kara S.
14. "Dr. India White's leadership style is truly empowering. She creates a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. I have learned so much from her and am grateful for her guidance." -Chelsea K.
15 "Dr. White's ability to communicate complex psychological concepts in a relatable manner is truly remarkable. Her teachings have helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and others." - Michael B.
16. "I attended one of Dr. India White's workshop at a math conference, and it was a transformative experience. Her passion, knowledge, and ability to connect with the audience left a lasting impact on me." - Samantha L.
17. "Dr. White's resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Her personal journey serves as a reminder that we can overcome any challenges with the right mindset and support." - Robert K.
18. "I have had the privilege of working with Dr. India White, and her leadership style is exceptional. She encourages collaboration, fosters a positive work environment, and brings out the best in her team." - Jennifer H.
19. "Dr. White's ability to combine her expertise in psychology and mental health coupled with real-life experiences makes her teachings relatable and impactful. I have learned so much from her and continue to be inspired by her work." - Mark W.
20. "Dr. India White's speaking skills are exceptional. Her ability to captivate the audience with her powerful storytelling and relatable experiences is truly remarkable." - Ashley M.
Would you like to share a testimonial? Email your testimonial with a photo, video or story to India.White.123@gmail.com!
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View My Latest Books
Double For My
Trouble
Read my personal testimony of going from a homeless shelter into a college dorm overnight, to now a Keynote Speaker and Author!
Grit Workbook for Teachers
If you're a teacher looking for answers on how to motivate your students and cultivate their grit, here is a resource for you!
Grit Workbook for Parents
Our team is trained to give you the very best services every time. Parents: Let's Show up Ready to Support our Children!
Mentor Me!
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Motivational speaker inspiring students and reminding them that they can overcome anything!
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