Navigating the Corporate World Without Sight

Embracing New Beginnings

Losing my sight to cancer at 12 was a pivotal moment, steering my life onto an unexpected path. But it didn’t extinguish my dreams; it redefined them. As I ventured into the unknown, each step was a leap of faith, guided by the belief that my disability was not a barrier but a unique lens through which to view the world.

The Power of Resilience

Transitioning into the professional sphere, I carried with me not just the lessons learned from the football field but also an unwavering resolve to succeed. Standing at 6-foot-3 and fully embracing my identity as a blind athlete, I set my sights on a new goal: making an impact in the business world.

Engage: Bridging Gaps in the Speaking Industry

Graduating with a degree in business administration from USC was just the beginning. Alongside my college roommate, Daniel Hennes, I co-founded Engage, a digital marketplace designed to streamline the booking process for speakers. Drawing from personal challenges I faced in the speaking circuit, Engage was our solution to making the industry more accessible for talents like me.

Engage and the NIL Era

The introduction of NIL legislation opened new doors for Engage, allowing us to support a wider array of athletes, including those whose stories might not make national headlines but whose influence is equally impactful. Our platform serves as a testament to the power of every individual’s story, including those of college athletes navigating their own unique journeys.

The Role of Fitness in My Life

Beyond Engage, fitness has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional life. My love for the gym, cultivated during my time at USC, led me to pursue certifications in fitness training.

Reimagine: A Hub for Accessible Fitness

In Santa Ana, CA, I’m part of an incredible initiative at a gym operated by Reimagine, a nonprofit dedicated to making fitness accessible to everyone, especially individuals with disabilities. This unique gym is fully equipped to accommodate a wide range of physical abilities. Here, I work with individuals dealing with various neurological disorders, spinal cord injuries, and more, crafting personalized fitness programs that cater to their specific needs.

Fitness isn’t just about physical health; it’s a vital component of overall well-being, particularly for those with disabilities. An accessible gym environment not only provides the necessary physical adaptations but also fosters a sense of community and support, crucial for holistic health.

A Community of Support

My journey has been enriched by the support of family, friends, and the broader community. From fellow athletes to business partners, the encouragement I’ve received has been a constant source of strength, reminding me that we can achieve greatness when we lift each other up.

Join me in this ongoing journey, as we continue to break barriers and redefine what’s possible, one step at a time.