How early do you think teens and young adults should get involved with politics? Often times we push education and community service because those were the instilled in us. Well, family… meet Raymond E. Adderly III, a 17 year old community activist.
S+S Magazine: Raymond, tell us a little about yourself and little about your story.
Raymond: Being a Broward County resident and student, as well as a community activist, I have always put the interests of the people in my community over politics. Seeing the frustration within my community regarding the schooling system, I have realized that I need to be a voice in my community to fulfill the promise of public education. Growing up, I faced lots of tragedy, as I lost my dad due to gun violence and watched my great grandmother pass away due to diabetes. This tragedy led me to join youth groups to help express my sorrow; however, nothing made me more proud that advocating for my community. Living in a family-line of teachers, I was especially inspired to fight for teachers, which is why I become president of my class and an active member of two school board committees. I want to further my fight for the Broward County School system, which is why I am running for Seat 8 (At Large) on the Broward County School Board.
S+S Magazine: Who or what inspires you and who are your biggest influencers?
Raymond: When asked what inspires me, the first thing I think about is the teachers in my community, who represent our students. I also think about the world’s main philosophers, who have instilled principles of liberty, justice, and democracy in the world. Lastly, I think about black influencers in my community who are making impactful impacts and overcoming hardships. These are the key driving force to my campaign.
S+S Magazine: Raymond, let’s talk about what it is that you do and what you aim to present to your community.
Raymond: I am a firm believer that every student should have an opportunity to succeed in the education system. I want to reach students, parents, and educators, to ensure that they have a say on what programs go into their local schools. I believe that we should actively be fighting for our teachers, to protect them. The community should have a strong voice in the decisions of our schools, regardless of one’s language, racial, ethnic, or social barriers. My campaign is called “Raymond Takes Notes” because I aim to represent the community at large to ensure our education system is the best possible.
S+S Magazine: Sometimes our dreams are met with challenges. Did you experience or have to overcome any doubts?
Raymond: Yes, I have experienced challenges as a young black male. I am often told that the political scene isn’t for me and that I should not run for this race. I am told to go to college and become a great lawyer at the ACLU, as no one will take me serious on the school board because of my race and age. Although the odds are not in my favor, I am willing to take my bet.
S Magazine: What advice would you tell the younger you, or any other aspiring community leader?
Raymond: Although I’m still young, I would tell my younger self to make more time to build more connections. More importantly, I would tell my younger self to gradually grow up and learn how to be a kid that can relate to others. This correlates to my passion of civic engagement, as the more relatable I am to others, the better I can make a strong impact.
S+S Magazine: At Soigne’+Swank Magazine™, we make it our business to highlight and promote positive, uplifting, and meaningful examples of black excellence. What does black excellence mean to you?
Raymond: Black excellence is when people do everything they can to make impactful legacies on the community. Moreover, when a black person makes a large impact in the community to overcome prior stereotypes and racial stigmas.
S+S Magazine: What’s next for you and how/where can we connect with you?
Raymond: I am running for Seat 8 (At Large) on the Broward County School Board to make the American Dream possible for every child, teacher, and family in Broward County. I can be reached at info@raymondtakesnotes.com.
Dr. Trenice J. Brinkley is a distinguished educator, renowned publicist, and successful entrepreneur. She is celebrated for her unwavering work ethic, strong determination, and philanthropic spirit. As an award-winning celebrity publicist, Dr. Brinkley excels in helping brands create compelling narratives, develop innovative strategies, and achieve greater visibility.
