Russell J. Ledet, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A. is an amazing example of the power of believing in you and your dreams. I am still in awe at the powerful moment in his viral video when he told himself “I am proud of you Black man!” after matching for his triple board residency in pediatrics, general psychiatry, and child and adolescent psychiatry. He accomplished this after earning an MBA and a PhD before graduating from medical school. Follow him to stay inspired by his journey, and to see what is possible when you dare to dream.
We still live in a world where we see more negative images of Black males in the media than positive images. It is important for Black males to see success stories like Dr. Ledet’s, because you need to know that if it was possible for him it is possible for you. As a Black man in this world you will need to encourage yourself and tell yourself: “I am proud of you Black man!”.
You may be the only one telling yourself that, but you need to hear it to keep you motivated and focused on accomplishing your dreams. Be proud of yourself Black man for even daring to dream! Be proud of yourself Black man for taking the first step towards making your dreams come true! Be proud of yourself Black man for not giving up on you and your dreams!
Never let the world tell you who you are…and what you will become.
Tell the world and yourself: “I am proud of you Black man!”
