“Don't let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity.
It's your place in the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.”
- Mae Jemison
I had the pleasure of getting to know Michelle Toney in our chats before and after her photoshoot and even though her educational background and career are in areas that many would consider “serious” (as an adjunct professor in math/statistics and also in the world of finance!), Michelle reminds me more of the friend you spend hours laughing with while chatting about everything under the sun.
She was born and raised here in the Bay Area, in Vallejo. As a student at Vallejo High School, she played volleyball, basketball, and ran track. Michelle went on to earn her BA in Math/Statistics at San Jose State University as well as an MA in Business Management at the University of Phoenix. As a local Hayward resident, she is an avid traveler, loves to enjoy great food and has a passion for all things that advocate for living a healthy life through exercise, self-care, and probably the most important thing, the daily medicine that is laughter. #amen
It goes without saying that Michelle is truly a #bosslady in life, in her work, and endeavors and I am beyond honored to highlight a bit of her story in today’s feature blog post with you all.
Happy Friday!
Images | Heartbox Photography
Wardrobe styling | Lisa Gaines
Makeup | Nancy Wetherholt
“My education background is Math / Statistics because I think math is fun and it is necessary for everyday life … especially if you want to be successful.
I’ve learned in the areas of finance, health care and manufacturing that math and statistics tell stories on how businesses are being run today and where it needs to be in the future.”
What are you most proud of in your life and why?
“I am proud to live the life I want and accept the good, the bad, and the ugly that goes with it. I believe that’s I how I grow as a person and learn from the mistakes that I have made. Plus, being surrounded by people who have similar life-style as me helps.”
What is something most people might now know about you?
“I am willing to work and partner with people where we both produce positive and productive outcomes/results. Basically, have a “win-win” partnerships.”
Can you tell me about someone who has had a huge influence on your life? What lessons did that person teach you?
“My parents have been influences in my life where they taught me to think before I make a decision and be prepared to face the consequences. Most of my sport coaches have helped shaped me where I can contribute my strengths for the team, but reminded me to improve on the skills that need more work so I can grow and exceed to the next level in life.”
What is the best advice you've ever received?
“Stay out of other people’s business that does not involve me.”
Who/what inspires you and why?
“Having an opened mind is my inspiration. By looking at the world from different perspectives allows me to help people on what they need to improve their lives. I believe that most people in the world should travel and see/experience how others live and we could be live a little bit more harmony.”
