Michele Joseph

I remember the sharp abdominal pains that drove me to the doctor. I remember the oncologist at the hospital who scheduled two back to back surgeries. I remember the relief after surgery, and the year-long recovery from cancer. It was then I knew I had to shift my life's purpose.

To help me heal after my surgeries, I volunteered as a reader to pre-schoolers at the Morristown Neighborhood House. Being around kids remedy all that aches. Their joy, their utter openness healed me.

I shared my story of a runway model turned entrepreneur (and now cancer-survivor x2) with the teen girls at Madison High School. They were inspired and engaged! I began to learn more about the education system, the common core standards, next generation science standards and the challenges that teachers endure. I sought opportunities to learn more and to be in front of more students.

For the first time I felt like I was charting my course and that it was no longer about me - my life's purpose was much larger. I realized that my future was intertwined with preparing the next generation of global leaders.

SGAP Leaders envisions a future where underserved youth are equipped with the leadership and soft skills needed to solve some of the most challenging problems in their communities, and in the world.

We impacted over 5,000+ youth in 80 schools in NJ, MD, VA , DC and NYC. Learn more: sgapleaders.org

I am living my life’s purpose. Are you?