My parents, brother, and myself hail from Ocala, Florida; but on July 5th, 2008 we moved to Buford, Ga by divine direction. God has continually directed my life by placing opportunities and people resonating with my own heart and it has led me to where I am in life today. Each day is new and I am grateful for each day he gives me, because it extends the purpose he has over my life and the love I can keep extending to others in this incredible community. I do not take any day for granted. Life is a gift and it should be treated as such.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am proud to come from an incredible family that exudes perseverance, strength, and a deep love for the Lord. Seeing this example has taught me to stay strong no matter what circumstances may come my way and know that God has me in the palm of his hand. My mother, from the time I was born has instilled innovation and charisma in my work ethic, while my father has been the prime example of a hard working man that provided for his family. My younger brother, having a deep bond, has been my best friend in life and continues to be a confidant in life.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
-My career began while I was in Buford High School. I played football at Buford High School in 2008 – 2010. It has branched out into where I am today; as a paraprofessional and coach. There’s far too many amazing things to list about each role, but each has made its own distinctive impression on my life. As a paraprofessional, the kids bring light to my life every day and to know that I am a part of their growth is something I am so grateful for. As a football coach, I can be a positive impact on their lives, a role model, and it makes me hold myself to a high standard as a man.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
My favorite restaurants in Buford are Rico’s and Bare Bones. Rico’s has the bests sandwiches, with my favorite being the Chicken Cuban. Bare Bones speaks for itself, with the best steak in town.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have worked in our community since 2017. I started as a youth coach at 24 years old and maintained that role for 5 years before transitioning into a substitute teachers for Buford City Schools. From there, God has blessed me to become a paraprofessional at Buford Sr. Academy and an assistant running back coach for Buford High School while obtaining my bachelors degree in early childhood education.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most interesting person I have met here in our community is by far The Legend Ken Burge. I am beyond grateful for Ken Burge for where I am today, because he gave me an opportunity to work with kids in our community as a youth football coach.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world right now, it would be Alaska. I would love to see the nature in it’s most real form, and take in the sunrise and sunset while getting to experience the beauty of snow on a magnificent landscape.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Favorite TV show would be Suits on Netflix. Favorite move would be Braveheart.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
The advice that I would give to people would be to live life to the fullest, embrace every opportunity with a positive outlook regardless of their circumstances. Be compassionate to others, because you never know what trials or tribulations they are going through.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Snorkeling in the ocean.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
My go to band when I can’t decide what to listen to would definitely be Journey.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The current local business that makes you the most nostalgic about our community would be Buford Grill.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
If I could choose anyone that is alive today, I would love to have lunch with Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. The reason why I would love to have lunch Henry Louis Gates Jr, because who he is and what he represents as a person. He is and unbelievable professor at a prestigious institution and it would be such a honor to sit down for a few hours and pick his brain. The place where we would meet for this lunch would be Rico’s.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My favorite thing about Buford is the tight – knit community feeling. I believes this nurtures relationships and builds on the strong foundation that this community has established throughout the years.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5 – 10 years I wish to have my masters degree with a specialist training in education, starting a family, and accomplishing things on my bucket list.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Due to who I am as a person, I am open book. I don’t hide anything and happy to sit down with anyone and have an honest talk.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
The most beautiful place I have been to is the Cliff Moher in Ireland. Being able to enjoy the cruise of the rockface makes you feel as if you are on the edge of the face of the Earth.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is November and single day/ holiday is Thanksgiving. I love this holiday because of the family atmosphere it creates and the humble heart and gratitude for all you have. It is a reminder of God’s blessings in our lives.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
I would rate the thunderstorms in Georgia a 10 out of 10. Thunderstorms in Georgia is the best weather for a deep sleep.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My mother inspires me to be a better person everyday. Her perseverance in all that she does and battled throughout these past few years has allowed me to be the best version of myself. Her love and grace she bestows to everyone in the world is something that I hold dear to my heart.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Fresh cut grass, because it reminds me of my football playing days at Buford High School.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Three words that make me think of HOME are comfort, because it makes you feel safe. Acceptance, because it branches from safety into confidence in who you are. Lastly, family, because its not home without it. All three of these together spell out BUFORD, and its why I love this community.
