Raised on southside of Chicago a happily married mother of four beautiful children. My greatest blessing and role in my life is that of Mom.
I was born to a single mother that suffers from mental illness. It’s not my mom’s fault she has mental illness. What’s so sad is that there are millions of people just like her, and millions of people just like me that have suffered in silence and have a story to share. I believe we are more than just our physical bodies and health care should include access to mental and spiritual care. So, I share my voice to bring awareness to this issue.
I discuss topics such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, and drug abuse. I also tell my story of growing up in a gang, the struggle of being a teen mother at the tender age of 16, becoming a domestic violence survivor at the age of 17, and going to prison at the age of 18 sentenced to 15 years. It was in prison where I experienced what so many other women face, prison r**e. There are a lot of women leaving the prison system with more trauma then they ever endured before entering those walls. Let’s acknowledge the lack of care and access to care for people who suffer with mental illness. Mental illness exists 1 in every 5 Americans in the USA.
My real-life adversity and prison experiences shaped my life, and helped define the woman I am today, despite these challenges, I turned my wounds into wisdom. I teach from my personal journey, breaking cycles of destruction, forgiveness, healing and what it takes to rebuild and succeed
In My professional role I am a sought-after Speaker/ Re-Entry Advocate/Mentor/ International Author / Passionate Community Activist. I am living proof and driven by the fact that your one decision away from a different life. I want to be the catalyst that sparks the belief of possibilities and second chances.
As Founder of GOD (Giving Other’s Dreams) I have developed and host mental health and trauma informed workshops. Where we create vison boards, dreams desires become real and a map with a mission is created. All enrichment programs are rooted in transformation and self -accountability. The women leave with a plan and a reframed outlook on life. In my work, I share what I learn through my affiliations my executive leadership and development trainings add to my professional experience to mentor others, helping them find their strengths and use that as a tool to reach their goals in life and business. I have a passion to educate others to help them build healthier and stronger lives. I am interested in what I can do for others to help them move forward. I have a book yet to be released called MAP -Making Another Path which will serve as very positive impactful mental health tool and support workbook. In the future this will be made into a mobile app.
As a keynote speaker I have delivered hundreds of speeches to people in settings such as Cook County Jail, Cook County, Olive Harvey Community College, SGA Youth and Family Service Center, and at the Juvenile Detention Center i was a speaker for Project Safe Neighborhood through the United States Department of Justice and the U.S. State Attorney’s Office
As an advocacy professional, I recently became a fellow for Just Leadership USA. Where we are dedicated to cutting the US correctional population in half by 203
On April 14th I will be a Keynote Speaker for the Ecumenical service where 40 churches will walk against violence in South Chicago.
On April 28th I will receive a Humanitarian award 2018 Women of Purpose Community Service Award -
On May 5, and 6 I will be in Los Angeles, CA Speaking at the United States of Women Summit representing Fierce Over40 which is an initiative to empower and invite women to action in their own communities.
Now, I am thrilled to announce that I am an International Published Author in Today’s Inspired Latina, Volume 4, Where we share vivid and compelling stories of overcoming adversity and inspires others to become the best versions of themselves. Book lunch and release party May 24, 2018. http://todayslatina.com/events/org
I am also a professional member of Friends for Life Resources, Fierce Over Forty and Genius Is Common.
If you would like to donate to this mission, you can use pay pal@ Celiacolon08@gmail.com
The most powerful force in the universe is the Tenacity of the Human spirit!
Follow me on social media: Twitter @CeliaColn1
Instagram @communityconcernswithceliac / www.fierceover40.com/ https://www.justleadershipusa.org
You tube: Https://youtu.be/g3a0P7L2viM
I am a student of the world and a teacher of love and hope! Wishing you the best in all your endeavors!
