Dr. Uvonda Willis: Empowering young women and fostering a culture of purpose
As we celebrate Women's History Month, it is only fitting to shine the spotlight on the remarkable achievements of women in our community. Among them is Uvonda Willis, an administrator at Greene County Schools, who has dedicated her life to empowering young women and inspiring them to make a positive difference in the world.
“When I think of being an influential figure in the community, I think of one who sees his or herself as servant leader who has a platform to make a difference,” said Willis.
Eight years ago, Willis identified the need to create a space where young minority women in high school could give back to their community and learn their worth and value while helping others do the same. Hence, she started a club called Ram L.E.G.A.C.Y. (Ladies Empowered to Grow and Change Through You), which focused on helping each participant find their own legacy in life and inspire others to do the same. Through that journey, they've had prominent guest speakers, outings, and participated in community service projects that exposed the young ladies to ways they could serve and allow others to see them in a different light.
Willis's work with these young ladies led her and her husband to start a non-profit called It's All About Purpose, which helps students see the interconnectedness of purpose in all aspects of their lives. They provide school supplies to youth and college and workforce items for high school seniors. Willis believes that when students understand that they have a purpose, they think and move differently because they understand that their lives have meaning.
Her dedication to making a positive impact has not come without challenges.
“One of the biggest challenges I have faced as an influential woman is realizing that change does not happen at once and begins with planting a seed of hope in students and community stakeholders,” said Willis.
Willis has learned to have patience and plant the seed. She has also collaborated with many stakeholders who have seen the work they've done at Greene Central High School and immediately jumped on board to make it happen. Whether it's through financial donations, toiletry and clothing donations, or senior gifts, the students truly have sponsors who are willing to fill any voids they have so they can be successful in school.
Willis sees the most pressing issues surrounding students as having positive outlets and activities catered to their interests. She is a firm believer that you can't expect greatness from our youth when all they see or hear is mediocrity. She encourages people to be the change they want to see in the youth.
Despite being heavily involved in the Greene County community, Willis is practicing a work life balance and setting appropriate boundaries for times where she is not available. She stays motivated by realizing her "why" - to inspire and change the lives of students and empower her staff to do the same.
“It's not enough to just ‘show up’ being present also means that I have something to offer in conservation or deed to those I serve because I am here to make a difference,” said Willis.
Willis's future plans include serving as the new principal of Greene County Intermediate School. She hopes to foster a culture of purpose and inspire students to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world. Willis believes the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and by empowering them and instilling a sense of purpose, we can create a better future for us all.
Willis is an inspirational figure, and her work is a testament to the power of servant leadership and the importance of empowering the youth. Her dedication, resilience, and passion for making a positive impact in the community are truly admirable, and we are fortunate to have her as a role model for young women and community members alike.
Neuse News is a locally-owned small business startup in downtown Kinston. Our goal is to provide free, hyper-local news to Lenoir, Greene and Jones counties. The kind of news our grandparents read in a format fit for today's times.
We provide this by having supportive advertisers and we encourage you to click on their ads, shop with them, and eat with them. Every bit of financial support is important to help us sustain free, hyper-local news.
Please consider supporting Neuse News with as little as $5 one-time or via a monthly option. Every little bit helps us, help you.
