As we step into 2026, I am honored to receive the National Heart of America title for Georgia once again. This recognition fills me with a deep sense of pride—not only for myself but for my entire indigenous family. To earn this title is to honor the struggles of those who came before us and to continue fighting for what was once ours. Yet, we do so with unity and peace in our hearts, never with harsh feelings. Together, we are working to fix our home and rebuild paradise, ensuring a brighter future for all. This achievement is not only personal but a reflection of the resilience and spirit that have defined our people through generations.
Georgia, the land I call home, holds a deep and painful history—one that involves the forced displacement of Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and others, during the tragic Trail of Tears. This dark chapter represents not just the loss of land, but the destruction of our cultural identity and sacred connection to the earth. As a Georgian, I feel a profound responsibility to acknowledge this painful history and use my platform to ensure its story is shared. It is essential that we never forget how indigenous lands were stolen, and as we move forward, we must continue to honor and respect all cultures, keeping these difficult truths alive in our collective consciousness.
As I reflect on the importance of legacy, I am reminded of Julia de Forest Tiffany, a woman who defied the odds and made significant contributions to medical research despite lacking a formal degree. The daughter of Louis Comfort Tiffany, Julia’s academic journey was interrupted by her father’s belief that, due to her family’s prominence, higher education was unnecessary for her. But Julia’s passion for science could not be stifled. She began her career by working alongside Dr. Philip H. Hiss at Columbia’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, later collaborating with Dr. Hans Zinnser. Throughout her career, Julia published over 50 scientific papers, making pivotal contributions to bacteriology, immunology, and protozoology.
Her unwavering determination to pursue knowledge despite societal limitations resonates deeply with me. As a woman in science, Julia's legacy serves as both a challenge and an inspiration, reinforcing my belief that barriers are meant to be broken. Her work in science, alongside her ties to the Tiffany legacy, is a testament to the powerful intersection of art and science—two fields that, when combined, create lasting impact and innovation.
Julia’s perseverance fuels my own commitment to pushing boundaries. My involvement with children on the spectrum has illuminated the diverse spectrum of human intelligence. Through this journey, I have delved into the fascinating world of brain mapping, uncovering the complexities of how different minds process information. I have learned that intelligence is far more than a set of standardized measures. It is shaped by a blend of environment, neurological wiring, and education, all working together to form a unique cognitive experience.
Through my research, I’ve been drawn to the holistic principles of Chinese medicine, which has an inherent understanding of the mind-body connection. This ancient practice aligns closely with my cultural heritage, offering a perspective that bridges the gap between modern science and traditional healing. As I continue my work in this field, I look forward to collaborating with doctors who share my vision of creating more accessible and innovative healthcare solutions, especially for those who face challenges due to their unique cognitive makeup.
As I continue my journey as an entrepreneur, I am excited to be developing the Private House Membership—an exclusive concierge service that blends luxury with accessibility. This service will connect people with hotels, industry leaders, and artists, creating unique opportunities for travel, wellness, and innovation. I envision this membership not only as a luxury experience but as a space where creativity and rejuvenation can thrive. By integrating NFTs and art into the offering, I hope to foster a community where individuals can experience both relaxation and innovation in equal measure.
Another passion project close to my heart is the Public School of Rock—an initiative dedicated to transforming Hollywood’s education system through creativity, history, and innovation. This project aims to provide free education to underserved children, offering them a platform to explore their potential and express their creativity. Education is more than just textbooks and tests—it is about nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and self-expression. I am deeply invested in this mission, and I am excited to see where this journey takes us as we work to empower future generations.
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