A heartfelt reflection on life's lessons, emphasizing the importance of appreciating the present, treating others kindly, and staying true to one's values. The author shares their vision for building a meaningful future through creativity, career growth, and responsible leadership.
Her Story
About Dee
Dee Henry is a curriculum developer and education specialist based in Louisville, Kentucky. She focuses on creating digital products and curricula for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, incorporating lessons on letters, numbers, critical thinking, and problem solving to make learning engaging and foundational. An Army brat born in Germany, Henry attended school from kindergarten through twelfth grade there before moving to the United States. Without a college degree, she credits her success to the School of Hard Knocks and her determination to alchemize negative experiences into positive growth. Henry serves as a Goodwill Ambassador following her graduation from the RISE program and has founded a nonprofit organization aimed at supporting education and empowerment.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dee
01What do you attribute your success to?
I was determined. Anything I put my mind to, I'm capable of doing. God don't play about me. He's gonna make sure I get what I want because my heart's in the right place. Little things like winning raffles and trips showed me I'm special and different, and if I'm adamant about it, it will happen. My kids are grown with no grandkids, which I'm proud of due to teaching responsibility.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My daddy always told me, all that glitters is not gold. Just because it glitters and it's pretty and shiny doesn't mean it's going to be good. Stay focused on what you're doing, don't get distracted by people needing attention, because not everybody that wants your attention means well. Pay attention to your task and finish what you started.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stay focused, learn yourself, love yourself. It's okay to put yourself first and choose you. Pull your power back, pour into yourself, take yourself out, buy flowers, pamper yourself. Give yourself grace, forgive yourself, hold yourself accountable where needed and let the rest go. Be in a positive light and put your best foot forward every day.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is parents not taking time to teach their kids, relying on iPads and TV instead of asking about their day or holding them accountable. The opportunity is creating support systems and communities for mothers, providing digital products for learning including for autistic individuals, and building safe spaces for empowerment through knowledge.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Say what you mean and mean what you say. Show up punctual, on time or early. Understand the task thoroughly, ask questions, take initiative. Be present, keep good karma and positive energy flowing, communicate clearly, and be on the same page. At home, pay attention to energy, diffuse situations, and stay positive.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Dee
How she did it?
Without a plan
In my journey with life, I have learned it all in what you make of it. I am suppose to stop and smell the roses, treat people right, and walk in your truth.
I always knew God had something huge for me because I wouldn't fall for things too easily. And I always have my eyes on the prize.
Now I am excited about creating many things and creating careers and stability along with ownership. It's time to pay attention to our babies and show them how a real adult takes care of responsibilities.
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