“I have had the privilege of working alongside a few Surge Fellows throughout my career and have seen first-hand the self-awareness, clear leadership styles, and fortitude they have not just in the organizations they work for but in the broader community as well. I have always admired leaders who have a clear north star and are able to move within their purpose and passions unapologetically. These are the reasons I want to be a part of the Surge movement. These characteristics and key understandings are not only admirable but necessary in the work of ensuring that our Black and Brown youth lives matter. They are necessary to ensure that one does not succumb to the system for career success and achievement.”