Growing up in a single-parent household was like being on a never-ending adventure—one filled with unexpected twists, tough lessons, and more than a few laughs along the way. My mom, the captain of our little ship, steered us through rough waters with a mix of determination, love, and a sense of humor that kept us afloat even when the seas got choppy. From a young age, I learned the value of hard work, not just because it was necessary, but because it was what I saw every day in the way my mom handled life’s challenges. My first job at fifteen was flipping burgers at a fast-food joint, and let me tell you, there’s nothing like the smell of fries to remind you that you’ve got to keep pushing forward. But even as I wiped down counters and took orders, I had big dreams. I didn’t just want to make money—I wanted to make something of myself. That drive kept me going through long shifts, late-night study sessions, and those moments when it felt like everything was just too much. One thing I’ve learned along the way is that you’ve got to laugh, even when life is hard. Like that time when I was trying to balance work, school, and helping out at home, and I accidentally wore two different shoes to class. Or when I convinced myself I could take on an extra shift and still ace my exams—only to end up napping on my textbooks. But in those moments, I realized that while the struggle is real, so is the joy that comes from knowing you’re doing everything you can to reach your goals. Overcoming obstacles, both financial and mental, has been a constant theme in my life. There were days when I wasn’t sure how we were going to make ends meet, but we always did—sometimes by the skin of our teeth, but we did it. And those experiences shaped me into someone who doesn’t just dream but fights for those dreams, no matter what. Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future. I’m working toward owning my own business, a marketing agency that will help others in the Black community succeed. I know the road won’t be easy, but I’m ready for the challenge. After all, if I’ve learned anything from my journey so far, it’s that success isn’t just about where you end up—it’s about the strength, resilience, and humor you find along the way. I’ve come a long way, but this is just the beginning. I’m going after everything I want in life with the same determination that got me through those early years, and I’m going to enjoy every moment of the ride.

I am from Chicago, yes the part that's like the show. Luckily my mom made the right and safe choice to travel 16 hours to Texas nonstop with her two daughters to start a new and better life. Hey, My name is Keva Mines I will be a Junior this upcoming fall at Prairie View A&M, I am a business management major. Now I can tell you the direction and path I would've been on had I spent the rest of my life in Chicago would've been drastically different, I doubt I would even care about my education as much as I do now because of the community and the stereotype. I am grateful for the life I have although the transition was a lot as a kid struggling and moving from place to place because my mom was and is only one person, but I would not change a thing. Growing up in Texas showed me how vast the world is, even though it's just physically the largest state. It has shown me infinite opportunitties. As I pursue my degree in business management at Prairie View A&M, I am determined to use my education and experiences to make a tangible difference. My dream is to own a marketing agency that specifically serves Black-owned businesses. I believe that by helping these businesses thrive, I can contribute to the economic empowerment of our community. Marketing is more than just promoting products; it’s about telling stories, building brands, and creating opportunities. I want to use my skills to amplify the voices of Black entrepreneurs, helping them reach wider audiences and achieve the success they deserve. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous blessing for me, as it would significantly ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus on my studies and future goals. Coming from a single-parent household, I've always had to be resourceful, working every summer since I was fifteen to contribute to my education and support my family. While these experiences have taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, they’ve also made it clear how much of a difference financial support can make. This scholarship would not only help me cover the costs of tuition, books, and other expenses, but it would also give me the peace of mind to fully engage in my academic journey. With this support, I can dedicate more time to my studies, internships, and extracurricular activities that are vital to building the skills and network I need to succeed in the business world. It would also allow me to continue giving back to my community through volunteer work and mentorship, something I’m deeply passionate about. Ultimately, this scholarship is not just an investment in my future, but in the future of the communities I plan to serve. By helping me achieve my educational goals, you are empowering me to make a real difference in the world. My dream of owning a marketing agency that supports Black-owned businesses is rooted in a desire to uplift others and contribute to the economic empowerment of the Black community. With your support, I can acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to turn this dream into a reality. I am committed to using my education to help others, just as this scholarship would be helping me. Your generosity would have a lasting impact, not only on my life but on the lives of many others as I work to create positive change through my career. Thank you for considering my application and for being a crucial part of my journey toward making a difference.

I am ultimately blessed to have grown up in church my entire life. I have several family members who minister in the church. My uncle and aunt are the pastor and bishop of the church I grew up in called "Dayspring Family Church".it was a cornerstone of my life, a sanctuary where I found solace, strength, and guidance. Raised by my mother, who instilled in me the values of faith, perseverance, and community service, I learned early on that helping others is not just a duty but a calling. Being a Christian has shaped my worldview in profound ways, teaching me the importance of compassion, humility, and the power of giving, even when you have little to spare. I have always been deeply involved in my church from praise dance, to mime, communion, Easter Sunday, Christmas programs, and volunteer work we do. The exposure I received at a young age up has shown me gratitude and persistence. For example, we have an outreach program we do every summer called summer feeding and we will go out into our community and give out over 150 meals to those in need in low-income places and do back-to-school things for young kids. Truth be told it has inspired me to genuinely help others in the career I want to pursue. As I pursue my degree in business management at Prairie View A&M, I am determined to use my education and experiences to make a significant difference. My dream is to own a marketing agency that specifically serves Black-owned businesses. I believe that by helping these businesses thrive, I can contribute to the economic empowerment of our community. Marketing is more than just promoting products; it’s about telling stories, building brands, and creating opportunities. I want to use my skills to amplify the voices of Black entrepreneurs, helping them reach wider audiences and achieve the success they deserve. I want to help my community while enjoying something that I am interested in and passionate about doing. I know the road ahead won’t be easy. I’ve faced challenges growing up, from financial hardships to the emotional toll of being raised in a single-parent household. But these struggles have only strengthened my resolve, and god has always had me. I am committed to giving back, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because I’ve seen firsthand the difference it can make. My faith has taught me that we are all interconnected, and by lifting others, we rise together. Through my future marketing agency, I hope to create a ripple effect of positive change, helping to build a stronger, more prosperous community.

Truth be told I have always attended predominately white schools from elementary to high school. It's sad to admit those were the best schools when it came down to education, which is why it would lack diversity most of the time. I knew ever since I watched "A Different World" at a young age I would go to an HBCU. I loved the idea of being around beautiful black people with beautiful minds like me. In high school whenever I would be in an honors or AP class I was the only black person in those classes, and it was such an uncomfortable feeling when it shouldn't be. I used to think I should've done regulars to be with most of my black friends. So when I found out I could go to the school of my choosing surrounded by the black culture I was all for it. Fortunately, it led me to Prairie View A&M PVVV...YOU KNOW! I'm now entering my third year at PVAMU as a junior, I knew I made the right choice, and later met so many black people from all over who became some of my best friends. We all had different backgrounds, majors, and even aesthetics but that is what has made My HBCU journey such a beautiful thing and I appreciate it so much. The HBCU experience to me is a welcoming community with all different types and shades of black, learning and growing together to achieve their goals and aspirations.

When I think about who has supported me the most in reaching my educational goals, one person stands out: my mother. Raised by a single Black mother with two kids, I have witnessed firsthand the immense strength, determination, and unwavering love she has poured into our lives. My mother’s support has been the cornerstone of my educational journey, shaping my aspirations and driving me to achieve my dreams. From a young age, my mother made it her mission to provide my sister and me with every opportunity to explore our interests and develop our talents. Despite our financial constraints, she found ways to enroll us in sports, music lessons, and various extracurricular activities. Whether it was soccer practice, piano lessons, or school field trips, my mother ensured that we were never deprived of experiences that could enrich our lives. Her ability to stretch every dollar and make the most of our limited resources was nothing short of miraculous. Through her actions, she taught us the value of resilience, hard work, and creativity. One of the most significant ways my mother supported me was by fostering a love for learning. She instilled in me the belief that education is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Despite the long hours she worked to make ends meet, she always found time to help with homework, attend parent-teacher conferences, and celebrate our academic achievements. Her constant encouragement and belief in my potential motivated me to excel in school and pursue higher education. Even now, as I work towards my degree in business management at Prairie View A&M University, my mother’s support remains unwavering. She continues to make sacrifices to ensure I have what I need to succeed. From paying for textbooks to covering unexpected expenses, she is always there, alleviating the financial burden of college. Her dedication and commitment to my education inspire me daily to push through challenges and strive for excellence. My goal is to make my mother proud and, in turn, make her life easier. I want to support her financially one day, giving back to her as she has given to me. Witnessing her struggles and triumphs has fueled my determination to create a better future for us both. I am motivated to succeed not only for myself but for her, as a testament to her sacrifices and unwavering belief in me. Beyond supporting my personal dreams, I aspire to give back to the community that shaped us. My mother’s generosity and compassion have deeply influenced my values. She has always been willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, despite our own challenges. Her selflessness has inspired me to use my education and future success to uplift others. I plan to start a business that supports Black-owned enterprises and creatives, contributing to the growth and empowerment of our community. In conclusion, my mother’s support has been the foundation of my educational journey. Her sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential have propelled me forward. She has made every effort to provide my sister and me with opportunities to succeed, despite the financial and social obstacles we faced. My mother’s strength and resilience inspire me to pursue my dreams, make her proud, and give back to the community. Her support has shaped my educational goals and instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. I owe my achievements to her, and I am determined to honor her sacrifices by building a future that reflects her love, strength, and unconditional support.

A true community is a tapestry of warmth, where every thread is a person, interwoven with care, support, and love. It’s a place where neighbors know each other by name, and the simplest gestures—a smile, a helping hand, a shared meal together. In this haven, diversity is celebrated, with each unique story adding color and richness to the collective experience. Children play freely in the streets, their laughter a melody of hope and joy. When challenges arise, the community rallies together, each member's strength amplifying the others. Here, compassion is abundant, and no one is ever truly alone. It’s not just a place, but a feeling—a sense of belonging, of being seen and valued. In this heartwarming community, love and kindness are the foundations, making every individual feel at home. I am from southside Chicago but spent a good amount of my life in Dallas, Texas. It wasn't the best community as far as safety but it is beautiful. I am a business major at Praire View A&M University, and HCBU in Texas, I plan to start a business surrounded around creating. Owning a successful creative agency supporting all creative arts. It is something that helped me grow up and combines my passion for owning my own business and also my love of the arts. I want to help creatives with their marketing and starting up their own because, I help them with their products or services I am from Southside Chicago but spent a significant part of my life in Dallas, Texas. While safety wasn't always guaranteed in these communities, their beauty and vibrancy left a lasting impact on me. I have always vowed to be a person to make it and come back to help others make it. Always paying it forward. My name is Keva Mines. Currently, I am a business major at Prairie View A&M University, an HBCU in Texas, this year I will be going into my junior year. A proud panther might I add! After college, I am preparing to launch a business centered around creativity. I aim to own a successful creative agency that supports all forms of creative arts. This vision combines my passion for entrepreneurship with my love for the arts, both of which played a crucial role in my upbringing. I aspire to help creatives with their marketing and business startups, supporting them in bringing their products and services to life. Especially helping black-owned businesses, the black community can always improve and I want to help contribute to its progress and do my part to give back to my community. If I am so lucky to win this scholarship I would be utterly grateful every little amount helps and would help me pay for some of my school. It would also help my mother who is a single black woman and I have both been paying out of pocket for my education. If I am chosen you would be investing in a future successful black-owned business helping other black-owned businesses. In the end, helping the black community as a whole.

Growing up as a Black kid in a predominantly white school while coming from a low-income household with a single Black mother presented me with numerous challenges. Adding to these struggles, I identify as a Black, queer woman, which has made my journey even more complex. Navigating through these intersecting identities in today's society has not been easy, but it has shaped me into a resilient and determined individual, steadfast in the pursuit of my dreams. From an early age, I was acutely aware of the differences between my peers and myself. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for my sister and me, but our financial situation often set us apart. At school, I faced subtle and overt forms of racism and discrimination. My classmates would make insensitive comments about my hair, my culture, and my family’s financial status. It was isolating, and there were times when I felt I didn’t belong. The adversity intensified when I began to understand and accept my queer identity. In an environment that was not always accepting, I often felt like I had to hide parts of myself. The fear of rejection and further alienation was overwhelming. However, I refused to let these challenges define me or dictate my future. Adversity is an inevitable part of life, but it does not define us. What truly matters is how we respond to these challenges and where we end up. No matter where you start, it's about where you finish and how you finish. Use your struggles as stepping stones to success. Draw strength from your hardships, and let them fuel your determination. Surround yourself with positive influences, seek support, and stay true to your dreams. Remember, the journey may be tough, but each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. Your resilience and perseverance are powerful tools. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and keep pushing forward. By embracing your unique journey and never giving up, you can turn adversity into triumph and inspire others to do the same. Your story can be a beacon of hope, showing that success is possible for everyone, regardless of their starting point. There is always light in the darkness. There is always a path that may have many obstacles but makes you stronger than someone who did not struggle at all. Everyone has different paths and no one in this world is the same, similar maybe but the same no. There is just one unique you in a world filled with billions It is okay to have a different come-up story. It is how you finish and how you continue to fight.

At a young age, I had to grow up faster than other kids. Hi, my name is Keva Mines, and I am a junior at Prairie View A&M, majoring in business management. I grew up as the youngest child, raised by a single Black mother. Alongside my own responsibilities, I took care of my older sister, who is on the autism spectrum. We didn’t have much money growing up, but my mom made my childhood wonderful. We didn't have a car, shared a one-bedroom apartment, and moved around a lot. Despite these challenges, our home was always filled with laughter and great memories. I wouldn’t change a thing because these experiences shaped me into the ambitious, creative, and positive person I am today. In my youth, I learned to appreciate and be grateful for everything I had and, most importantly, to make the most of life. I watched my mother grow up too; we all grew up together. My mother inspired me to pursue a career in business because she started several small businesses to support us. She made things happen without excuses. Everyone knows how hard it is to be a single parent, but it’s even harder to balance life and give your children everything they need. My mother did it with ease. She inspired me to go into business because she is a go-getter, and I am proud to be her child. I want to be my own boss, make my own rules, create a vision, and bring it to life. Currently, I am majoring in business management to gain the knowledge I need to run a successful business. I also want to do this for my mom, who wasn’t fortunate enough to graduate from college. She had to drop out when she got pregnant and took on the responsibility of caring for me and my sister at a very young age. I plan to own a marketing business and a creative business agency that supports all creative arts, from painting and art to music. This combines two of my passions: helping others and doing what I love. It’s my way of giving back to my community. I hope to receive this scholarship to help cover the rest of my college expenses and ease the financial burden on my mom. Every little bit helps. I would be ecstatic if chosen, especially after sharing my family’s story and demonstrating the value of the investment you would be making in my successful future. Thank you so much!

Hi, my name is Keva Mines, I currently go to PVAMU a Historically Black college in Texas, I major in business management and will be a junior this upcoming fall 2024. In high school I was an athlete I did both track and basketball for all four years. Growing up I was not fortunate to go to camps and things like that instead I would watch YouTube videos and practice my sports. I never asked for anything in life, I know you have to work hard for the things you want, I learned that from my mom. She taught me how to be grateful for everything you have even if it is not a lot and that if you change your mindset you can manifest anything in this world because It is mine. I learned to make do with what I had and still managed to have straight A's in all of my classes and work a job since I was 15 years old. My mother, a single Black woman raising two kids, is the embodiment of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous societal and financial challenges, she managed to create a stable and loving home for us. Her days were filled with hard work and sacrifice, often juggling multiple jobs to ensure we had everything we needed. Yet, she never allowed these obstacles to define her or limit her potential. Instead, she instilled in us the importance of education, hard work, and perseverance. Her ability to start her own business, fueled by her sheer will and unwavering dedication, has been a constant source of inspiration for me. She taught us that no matter the circumstances, with enough determination and effort, we could create the life we desired. Her journey as a single Black mother not only shaped my aspirations but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the strength and resilience required to overcome adversity. She managed to start her own business with her blood, sweat, and tears and always taught me to create the life I want. I've never met someone as resilient as her; she motivated me to one day be my boss and work for myself—not the typical 9-5 for the rest of my life. Being a creative and ambitious person, the career I want to pursue is business, specifically business management and digital marketing. That is something that will always be needed in this world, and I know I can help not only people’s businesses but also start a marketing company, especially for small businesses that want to jump-start and bring more awareness to their company. I want to do that because my mom needed the same help when I was younger, and it makes things so much easier to have someone help you with a small but major part of your business. I know I can help change the world of marketing. It is something I am passionate about—creating things in my image and helping other people's visions come true. This scholarship money, if I am so lucky to win, would help me accomplish my dreams to help others but also my mother and be the first person in my family to graduate from college with a bachelor's degree.

I used to be my mom's cashier, motivational speaker, and what I thought was an America’s Got Talent singer—all at the age of 7 years old. I am interested in getting into sales and marketing because it is what runs this world. Everything we see on television, at the store, at a sports game, or even the furniture in our homes is marketed. The beauty of marketing is that there are endless products and services that businesses need to promote. My inspiration is my mother, a single Black woman with two kids born and raised in Chicago. My mother, a single Black woman raising two kids, is the embodiment of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous societal and financial challenges, she managed to create a stable and loving home for us. Her days were filled with hard work and sacrifice, often juggling multiple jobs to ensure we had everything we needed. Yet, she never allowed these obstacles to define her or limit her potential. Instead, she instilled in us the importance of education, hard work, and perseverance. Her ability to start her own business, fueled by her sheer will and unwavering dedication, has been a constant source of inspiration for me. She taught us that no matter the circumstances, with enough determination and effort, we could create the life we desired. Her journey as a single Black mother not only shaped my aspirations but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the strength and resilience required to overcome adversity. She managed to start her own business with her blood, sweat, and tears and always taught me to create the life I want. I've never met someone as resilient as her; she motivated me to one day be my own boss and work for myself—not the typical 9-5 for the rest of my life. Being a creative and ambitious person, the career I want to pursue is business, specifically business management and digital marketing. That is something that will always be needed in this world, and I know I can help not only people’s businesses but also start a marketing company, especially for small businesses that want to jump-start and bring more awareness to their company. I want to do that because my mom needed the same help when I was younger, and it makes things so much easier to have someone help you with a small but major part of your business. I know I can help change the world of marketing. It is something I am passionate about—creating things in my image and helping other people's visions come true. This scholarship money, if I am so lucky to win, would help me accomplish my dreams to help others but also my mother and be the first person in my family to graduate from college with a bachelor's degree.