In delivering my speech, I hoped our guests would practice inclusivity and interact with an open mind; to understand the whys behind their businesses, actions, and inactions; to turn their no’s into yes’s.

Nervous as hell. But Thomas told me to not overthink it and just wing it. 

Seconds before this was taken, I was showing my dad the amazing turnout we had via video call. He told me how proud he was of me and let out a soft chuckle.

Years ago, I wouldn’t have thought I’d ever hear what he said to me that day. 🙂