Original Post Date: April 22, 2022

One of my favorite memories as a child was when I received a karaoke machine for Christmas. I was in my mid-teens and for me, singing was EVERYTHING. In my household, music was a big part of our everyday lives. From blasting ‘oldies but goodies’ on Saturday mornings as a pretty successful wake up call, to cranking some tunes anytime my siblings and I were doing homework. Music has always been a part of my life. So, when I received a karaoke machine I was over the moon. 

My parents set up the machine in the basement (a wise choice on their part) and I would go down there as much as I could and sing to my heart’s content. One of the songs that I loved singing was Mariah Carey’s Hero. I loved it because with any Mariah Carey song you are hitting some awesome high notes with a couple of cool runs in the middle, cradled in a great beat to tie it all together. If you’ve ever seen Rush Hour, I was the little kid in the back of the limousine anytime a Mariah Carey song came on. 

I love the song, not only because of the message it carries, but mostly because it provides anyone singing it the power to exhort and encourage those around them. You see, a hero isn’t just someone who can step in when the going gets tough and save the day. They are the individuals who inspire you to be better. They see more in you than you may see in yourself and encourage you to reach for the stars. 

“And then a hero comes along. With the strength to carry on. And you cast your fears aside and you know you can survive. So, when you feel like hope is gone. Look inside you and be strong and you'll finally see the truth. That a hero lies in you.” 

So, who are the Mariah Careys’ in your life? It is important now, more than ever, to spotlight the heroes in our lives. We caught up with Taylor Evans, NCCEP’s 2021 Student of the Year and she had this to say about the importance of spotlighting and encouraging our GEAR UP Leaders: 

Why do you think it’s important to recognize others for the GEAR UP/NCCEP Leadership Awards?

“I think it’s important because you never know who is watching. People are inspired by you, your drive and vision. You never know how you can inspire others to be the best they can be. We need to recognize our amazing people more!” 

What would you say to encourage others to nominate their GEAR UP Heroes for the Leadership Awards?

“I would say, speak the words to uplift and encourage. So often we assume they know, show them! You won’t regret it and they’ll be so grateful.” 

So, let’s call out those ‘GEAR UP Heroes’ who’ve not only gone above and beyond, encouraging others, thinking outside the box and spreading love, but have empowered those around them to be heroes in their communities. The NCCEP/GEAR UP Leadership Awards is your opportunity to spotlight these individuals. Submit your nomination for the GEAR UP student, professional, community partner, and/or family leader of the year and let’s give a round of applause and standing ovation to our heroes who are constantly birthing other heroes! Submit your nomination HERE and contact me if you have any questions.