The story of Mary McLeod Bethune fills me with admiration and hope. Born into poverty as the 15th child of 17, she had every reason to give up — but instead, she chose to rise. Her hunger for knowledge, even when the world tried to keep books out of her hands, shows a strength that is truly inspiring. Walking miles just to learn proves how powerful education can be when someone believes in its worth.

What touches me most is how Mary didn’t just learn for herself — she used her education to lift others. Founding a school for Black girls in 1904 was more than just an act of kindness — it was an act of revolution. In a time when society told Black children, especially girls, that they didn’t matter, Mary built a place where they could dream, grow, and lead. Her school became a symbol of hope and change.

Mary’s leadership went far beyond the classroom. She brought women together, built national movements, and even became an advisor to the President. That fact alone amazes me — a Black woman, born to former slaves, standing in rooms of power and making her voice heard. Her courage continues to teach us that no dream is too big if we stand with purpose and passion.

Even after her passing in 1955, Mary’s light still shines. She helped open the door for heroes like Rosa Parks and future generations of change-makers. Her legacy lives in every student who dares to dream, every teacher who inspires, and every person who believes that knowledge can change the world. Mary McLeod Bethune didn’t just teach — she awakened a movement.