Brittani O'Hara-Grant

Success is often defined by achievement, recognition, or status. Yet when success is rooted in faith, it becomes something far greater—it becomes purpose in motion. Integrating God into success programs shifts the focus from personal ambition to divine alignment, transforming dreams into callings and goals into legacy-building assignments.

A powerful quote that guides this vision is Langston Hughes’ statement: “A Dream Deferred is a Dream Denied.” While Hughes spoke to the aspirations of a people and the consequences of postponed hope, the message carries profound spiritual weight. When viewed through a faith-centered lens, a deferred dream can represent fear, doubt, or hesitation to walk in God’s purpose. A denied dream can reflect what happens when we shrink back from the very calling placed within us.

Faith-based success teaches that dreams are not accidental. They are often planted by God as seeds of destiny. Scripture reminds us that there is intention behind our lives: “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). When young people understand that their aspirations may be tied to divine purpose, they begin to treat their goals with reverence and responsibility.

Incorporating God into success programs means anchoring ambition in spiritual principles. Vision-setting becomes more than writing goals; it becomes seeking alignment with God’s will. Accountability becomes more than productivity; it becomes stewardship. Achievement becomes more than personal gain; it becomes service to others and impact for generations.

Youth, in particular, benefit from understanding that their actions today influence tomorrow’s legacy. Biblical figures such as Joseph, Esther, and David demonstrate how obedience and faithfulness can shape not only individual outcomes but entire communities. When young people recognize that deferring their dreams may also delay blessings meant for others, their perspective shifts. Success is no longer self-centered—it becomes mission-driven.

Practical application is essential. Faith must be paired with action. Belief builds confidence, but discipline sustains progress. Prayer provides clarity, but commitment produces results. When these elements work together, dreams move from imagination to manifestation.

Daily affirmations rooted in faith can reinforce this mindset: God has placed purpose within me. My dreams are aligned with divine destiny. I will not postpone what I am called to pursue. These declarations cultivate resilience and courage, especially when circumstances challenge hope.

Ultimately, integrating God into success programs creates a culture where faith fuels vision, and vision drives action. Dreams are no longer deferred by doubt but activated by belief. In this framework, success is not merely about reaching goals—it is about fulfilling purpose, influencing generations, and walking boldly in the destiny God has designed.

There is a powerful shift happening in the world of leadership—and young Black women are at the center of it. From community organizing to city councils, from policy tables to national platforms, a new generation is rising with clarity, conviction, and courage. For those who feel the pull toward politics, this is more than career ambition. It is purpose calling.

Langston Hughes wrote, “A Dream Deferred is a Dream Denied.” For young Black women considering public service, this quote carries urgency. The dream to lead, to legislate, to advocate, and to represent communities with integrity is not a small one. When that dream is postponed out of fear, doubt, or intimidation, the loss is not only personal—it is communal. Deferred leadership can mean deferred justice, deferred opportunity, and deferred transformation.

Called to Lead

Politics has not always been welcoming to Black women. Yet history tells a different story—one of resilience, strategy, and undeniable impact. Black women have long shaped movements, influenced legislation, and organized communities, often without recognition. Stepping into political office is not entering new territory; it is claiming space in a legacy already built.

When leadership is grounded in faith, it becomes more than ambition. It becomes assignment. Many young women carry a deep sense that their voice matters, that their lived experience equips them to see solutions others overlook. That intuition is not accidental. Purpose often feels like persistence—it does not leave you alone.

Faith as Foundation, Not Accessory

The political arena can test character, confidence, and conviction. A faith-centered foundation provides stability when criticism grows loud and challenges multiply. Scripture reminds us that purpose precedes position and that vision requires both belief and action.

Faith does not replace preparation—it strengthens it. Study policy. Learn systems. Understand economics, education, healthcare, and law. Build mentors across generations. Sharpen communication skills. When spiritual grounding meets strategic excellence, leadership becomes both principled and powerful.

Refuse to Shrink

Young Black women are often told to wait their turn, lower their voices, or soften their stances. Refuse that narrative. Your perspective is not excessive. Your conviction is not aggression. Your excellence is not accidental.

The systems you seek to influence may not have been designed with you in mind. That reality is not a reason to retreat; it is evidence of why your presence is necessary. Every barrier highlights an opportunity for redesign.

Leadership Rooted in Service

True political power is not about spotlight—it is about service. The most impactful leaders are those who see beyond election cycles and focus on generational outcomes. Ask bold questions: Who benefits from my leadership? Who is left out of current policies? What structures need rebuilding?

When your motivation is anchored in service, ambition becomes aligned with impact. Success is no longer measured only by titles but by lives changed and doors opened for others.

Community Is Strength

No one rises alone. Build networks of women who challenge, encourage, and collaborate. Honor those who paved the way while intentionally preparing space for those coming behind you. Collective leadership multiplies influence and sustains momentum.

Community also provides protection. Public life demands vulnerability, and safe spaces for restoration are essential. Guard your well-being. Protect your joy. Sustain your wholeness.

The Dream Is Bigger Than You

Entering politics as a young Black woman is an act of vision. It signals to girls watching that leadership is accessible. It tells communities that representation can be authentic. It declares that systems can evolve.

A dream deferred is indeed a dream denied—but a dream pursued becomes a movement. When faith fuels courage and preparation sharpens skill, your leadership transcends office. It becomes legacy.

Step forward boldly. The world does not simply need more politicians. It needs principled leaders, courageous voices, and women who understand that their calling is larger than fear. The future is shaped by those willing to claim it.

My advice to young women entering this field is to build strong, supportive relationships with other women—find your tribe. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and be intentional about giving and receiving support. Nurture your spiritual and personal well-being, and keep faith at the center of your journey; it will give you the strength to lead and advocate effectively.

Get involved in your community and step into leadership opportunities where you can make a meaningful impact. Prioritize your health—both mental and physical—so that you can sustain your energy and avoid burnout. By putting your best foot forward, being a pillar of strength, and leaning on a supportive network, you’ll be able to empower others while growing your own voice as a leader.

This is a defining moment in public leadership. Amid polarization, relentless media scrutiny, and rising public distrust, a new generation of lawmakers has the opportunity to redefine representation and principled governance. For leaders grounded in faith, this work is sustained by trust in God’s guidance and confidence in His faithfulness. The challenges that exist are mostly focused on deep political divides make bipartisan progress difficult.

Young legislators are often viewed through the lens of inexperience rather than preparation.

Young women—especially women of color—face layered scrutiny tied to age, race, and gender.

The proposed SAVE Act, requiring documentary proof of citizenship for federal voter registration, may create documentation barriers that disproportionately affect women, particularly those who have changed their names or face resource constraints.

Navigating these realities demands resilience, discipline, and clarity of purpose.

Yet in all challenges lives opportunity. This era calls for leaders who unite competence with conviction. Young lawmakers bring generational insight and fresh policy vision. When leadership is anchored in faith—trusting God’s guidance and His enduring faithfulness—public service becomes more than ambition; it becomes a calling carried with courage and integrity.

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life center around faith, community, and service. I am passionate about supporting causes that empower others and create meaningful impact. One organization close to my heart is Pink Print, founded by an inspiring young cancer survivor. Pink Print provides young women undergoing treatment with a sisterhood, resources, and support, including funding for transportation to appointments. It’s a powerful reminder that no one has to face challenges alone and that God is always guiding us.

I am also deeply committed to The Focus Initiative, a faith-based community organization that nurtures children’s growth through experiences and trips that strengthen their relationship with Christ. Supporting programs like these aligns with my belief in lifting others up, fostering community, and leading with compassion and faith.