“From surviving chaos to creating change, her resilience became the foundation of her new life.”
Nicole grew up surrounded by toxic behaviors her family had developed over the years. Chaos was her normal—biker life, instability, drugs, drinking, and violence. Those early exposures shaped her path, leaving her without healthy ways to thrive as an adult.
Throughout her teenage years and into adulthood, Nicole battled suicidal thoughts until around age 32. Her vulnerabilities led her into unhealthy relationships and dangerous situations. Searching for love in the wrong places, she began to wonder about the Lord. No one in her family knew Him, and at first, her understanding was clouded by confusion and pain.
After escaping exploitation and trafficking, Nicole worked to change her life. Though she and her fiancé became clean from drugs, lingering unhealthy patterns pulled her back into dangerous situations once more.
“My relationship with the Lord was something I had to figure out on my own—and it was tested deeply while still in the streets. During my last time out, I hit rock bottom. I thought I was alone, but the Lord was with me through it all. He saved my life from an overdose and gave me a sense of purpose.”
Eventually, Nicole grew tired of that life and got out for good. She quit using drugs before she even left the streets. Now, she sees the purpose in her pain. Everything she went through is being used to change systems, empower other survivors, and bring awareness to her community.
“One Purse has been a foundational part of my journey. Their scholarship allowed me to complete my BBA in General Business after running out of financial aid and hope, and to re-enroll in school after years away. With their continued support, I am now pursuing my MBA in Organizational Resilience.”
Nicole is now using her education and lived experience to bring value to a human trafficking organization. She also attended the One Purse Dream Cycle Series Bible Study, which strengthened her faith and reminded her to always put the Lord first.
“My life looks completely different now. I am the first person on both sides of my family to go to college, breaking generational cycles of trauma and unhealthy behaviors. I now lead by example for my children, showing them a new way to live. With stable housing, a strong faith, and a heart for advocacy, I am an active leader in my community. I am forever grateful for the opportunities One Purse has given me through their scholarships. The Dream Cycle Series helped me re-ground myself in the Lord, keep pushing toward my dreams, and believe that I am truly worth it.”