"Foster Care Literally Saved My Life"
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog highlighting stories of black women’s struggles and successes.
By Hadiatou Wann | 02/07/20
Today Pamela J. Campbell coaches others to overcome hurdles in order to live a healthy and productive lifestyle. Years ago, she ran away from her own hurdle—domestic violence.
Pamela grew up in a household where she experienced different forms of abuse, which made her feel like she was being used as a punching bag. The emotional and physical abuse escalated and led her to attempt suicide at the age of 13.
A home is supposed to symbolize stability and protection. But every time Pamela was in her home, she felt neither stable nor protected.
With her life in danger, at 16 years old Pamela tried to run away from home. She was suffering at the hands of her abuser, but found the courage to confide in her teacher. Her school intervened, and from when she was 16 to 21, she lived in 2 foster homes.
“Foster care literally saved my life,” she expressed. She was fortunate enough to be handed over to a family that took good care of her.
At one point, though, she was sexually assaulted by someone she considered a friend from her study group. This incident added yet another layer to her existing trauma.
At age 24, she had a mental breakdown which led her to search for her biological mother.
Although Pamela was abused, she aimed for a better life. After studying Criminal Justice at John Jay College, she landed a corporate job, and has worked with Hillary Clinton. In May 2018, she left your corporate job and launched Pamela J Campbell LLC where she offers coaching, organizes workshop, and speaks.
“Trauma is a way to bring us back to who we are,” Pamela said. The emotional bruises made it difficult for her to trust others. But after healing, Pamela recognized that the trauma she experienced in the past introduced her to the life that she is destined to lead as a life coach.
Her advice to people who’ve experience trauma is: “They cannot allow their trauma to destroy them. It is their catalyst to their purpose,” said the Ivorian life coach, motivational speaker, author, and foster care advocate.
Joi Rychelle, Pamela’s best friend says: “Pam has been a light in my life! She’ a rare gem of a friend. She’s loyal, honest, dependable, and has integrity. Also has the most funniest sense of humor. She has a HUGE heart and has invested and given to our friendship in a way that words can’t begin to explain.”
With the mindset that “everything happens for you,” Pamela used her trauma to help others with their healing journey. She escaped domestic violence and showed that those who went through the foster care system can overcome their traumas and lead a fulfilling life.
Welcome to Pamela’s World
“An entrepreneur is about showing up in the world and being in service to others. It’s my responsibility to share my God-given gifts with the world. And so every day I choose entrepreneurship because I know someone is waiting for the gift only I can offer.”
Pamela has co-authored two books “ The Art of Activation” and Women Rising Volume 2: Embrace Your Story, Find Your Power”
“A strong woman is a woman of courage, strength, and is vulnerable.”
Pamela talks about thriving vs surviving
Connect with Pamela:
Facebook: Pamela J Campbell
Instagram: @pamelajcampbell
Email: pjcampbell03@gmail.com
Read other success stories here: www.iamafricanandican.com/blog
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