About Me
I was born and raised in Bradenton, Florida, where my love for learning took root early in life. From a young age, I found comfort and confidence in academic excellence, consistently recognized as a gifted student throughout elementary school—even offered the opportunity to skip a grade in third grade. Surrounded by strong, educated women, I was inspired to own my voice and pursue growth through every opportunity.
In middle school, I joined the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program, where I strengthened my communication skills, honed my work ethic, and learned to embrace both my strengths and weaknesses. My efforts were recognized with two scholarships awarded toward my future college education.
At Southeast High School, I continued in AVID and joined the Boys & Girls Club on campus, where my passion for public speaking and mental health advocacy began. Through personal experiences and therapy, I developed a deep understanding of emotional intelligence, which became the foundation of my speeches. In my junior year, I was honored as Southeast High School’s Youth of the Year, an experience that took me to Disney World and Chicago for the national conference.
By senior year, I was dual-enrolled at the State College of Florida, where I earned my Associate of Arts degree. I then went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations at Florida A&M University (FAMU). During my time at FAMU, I served as co-producer and writer for The Saturday Morning Show on 90.5 FM and interned with powerhouse professionals including attorney, activist, and media personality Angela Rye, as well as Sun Hydraulics – a Helios Company, where I learned the art of high-level marketing strategy.
After graduating in Fall 2023, I expanded my career as a podcast host, writer, media strategist, and motivational speaker—leveraging everything I’ve learned through education, experience, and persistence. My journey is proof that no matter the circumstances, I will always rise.
"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty." – Maya Angelou
Email: deju.johnson1215@gmail.com