What makes Mariam Wildly Capable?

Mariam is one of the most selfless people I know. While counseling and real estate are her lines of work, she is also active in her community and serves others consistently. In 2022 and 2023, I witnessed her battle and beat breast cancer with grace and fortitude, striving to be a resource and testimony to others through her trial.” RAVEN HAYNES

What keeps you up at night?

I want others to see my boys, my black boys, as the incredible humans that they are. I don’t want this broken world to ever creep its way into their precious hearts and minds and try to define who they are, their value, or what they can or cannot accomplish in life.

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

There have been so many people who have influenced my life. Every black woman entrepreneur whether known or not – from the CEOs to the “neighborhood aunties” selling plates of delicious food. The women who didn’t allow their circumstances to determine their futures. The women who didn’t step on anyone to get to where they were and maintained their values and integrity along the way. The women who lifted up others as they worked toward their goals. The women who believe there is enough success for everyone and no need to hold it with a tightly closed fist.

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

Being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 and completing chemotherapy, double mastectomy, and radiation at age 32 and 33. It was terrifying. It was humbling. It was heartbreaking. And it brought me so close to Jesus. It was a real life Psalms 91 season. All I could do was hold on to Him and realize I am really not in control of this thing called life – He is. We naively pray and sing for God to refine us, yet don’t consider what that process could include.

One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?

I absolutely love this question! One year from today, I hope I am living more mindfully in the moment and worrying less about the future (as I’ve learned, it isn’t in my hands anyway). I pray that I am filled with palpable joy and allow myself to play more, pursue more hobbies, and dream big dreams that only the Lord can unveil!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

You have the power to create the life you want.

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