What does "being strong" mean to you? To me, being strong means showing up as the best version of yourself when life gets tough. I think I’ve learned this from watching people like my mother, father, and grandmothers persevere through some of their hardest moments, all while maintaining their character, grace, and compassion—no matter how difficult things became.
How does family shape your perception of strength? My family is full of women, from my mother’s sisters to my dad’s aunts. I grew up surrounded by women who set the standard of strength for me. Their willingness to face challenges, resolve conflicts, and serve as the backbone of our family deeply influenced me. I’ve learned so much from them, not just about conflict resolution, but also about what true strength looks like: the ability to be both vulnerable and strong at the same time.
What keeps you strong in times of trial? What keeps me strong in times of trial is knowing I have support, no matter where life takes me. Whether I’m moving across the country or just having a tough day, I know my parents, despite being in different parts of the world, will always be there for me. That foundation keeps me grounded. Knowing they would go to great lengths for me, and that I would do the same for them, gives me the strength to keep going.
Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mother is the strongest person I know. She’s incredibly quick to solve problems and remarkably open. When there’s an issue, she doesn’t hide from it and she faces it head-on. That’s what makes her such a powerful role model to me. She handles challenges with both compassion and honesty, and that balance is something I deeply admire.
If you could ask a question to other women regarding strength, what would you ask? What has made you strong during your toughest times, and what are two things you learned from those experiences that you have taken with you through life?
Hannah’s Intentional Act of Kindness
How did you use the $100?: I gave the $100 to my pottery instructor back in Georgia. She took the leap and owns a small pottery studio and she is incredibly talented and kind. I wanted to give back to her because she’s given so much to me. When I started pottery in 2022, I wasn’t in the best mental space. While many people just attend class, this instructor and her studio became my community. It had been a long time since someone offered me a space to create without judgment. She supported me through tough times at work and with family, and gave all of us a safe, welcoming place at the end of a busy day. She truly deserves great things in life, and I wish I could still attend her class
What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It was very easy for me to decide who the person was going to be because, outside of my family she was one of the people who has had a major impact on my life. She was the first person that came to mind and when I travel home we always connect.