One look at my LinkedIn profile will tell you that I am a Human Resources Strategist and Consultant who works in talent development and recruitment. But that’s the official line.

My story goes beyond those eight-plus years you see there.

This is Sophia Paul’s untold story.

The daughter of immigrants from Haiti, I am a South Florida native, born and raised. Losing my mother at the age of six affected me deeply and was the first trigger in my struggle with depression. A change in my family structure from a nuclear family to a blended one, a deteriorating relationship with my father, a lack of emotional support, and my mental state pushed me far into the abyss. By the age of 18, I had attempted suicide on four different occasions.

My transformation from that fearful, depressed, lonely girl into a confident, vivacious, and determined woman was not easy. It took dedication, discipline, perseverance, and faith. Supporting myself financially through college meant that it took me almost 12 arduous years to get my BA in Communication and MBA in Marketing, an incredibly long time. But it’s a journey I wouldn’t exchange with anyone.

Owning my narrative and choosing to love myself was the most significant gift I could give myself. It was also the bravest thing I’ve ever had to do. My faith kept me grounded and helped me heal myself emotionally and mentally.

This journey has driven me toward my purpose in life, providing others the support they need to walk through the uncertain times, the difficult times, when they are their most vulnerable, to help them get to a place of courage and success.

As a visionary strategist, career coach, and consultant, I have made it my mission in life to help young men and women dream big and be audacious and make that big change that will help them lead their best life.