Today we’d like to introduce you to Isaiah Pickens.
Isaiah, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was always interested in psychology. I received my college education at George Washington University. I attended Fordham University for my Grad School. Apparently, there are not many African American males in the profession. Mental health is still a bit taboo in the Black community. Although, that is not my primary focus to just focus on Black mental health. I find it refreshing to be able to support the black community in mental health. Mental health overall is a type of culture shock that we do not fully understand and do not know how to treat. It is a daily challenge to grow awareness of mental health. I continue to grow my brand “company” by developing ideas to treat mental health, educate others on how to be aware of mental health and answer questions to help further the discussion of mental health.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been a smooth road. Nothing about paving a road is smooth. There are many struggles along the way, but the most fierce road is the road of “self”. I say that even though it seems cliche it is a real obstacle. The challenge of developing my own curriculum and my business takes time. It is something glamorized in this society to have your own business and be your own boss. However, the first person you must convince is yourself. That is the real challenge. Even when business is good, there is always the factor of “what if?” The struggle is everyday, waking up and pressing forward purposefully.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My company iOpening Enterprises is a company that focuses on mental health by doing keynotes, training sessions, and consulting. It is a self-employed business and it is growing. I specialize more in adolescents. What I am most proud of about the company is the potential it has to grow. It is maturing in ways that I did not expect and business is picking up. The more aware we are becoming about mental health the more we want to learn. As a professional, I am able to assist with the education of mental health. My business sets me apart from others because of who I am and how I approach the dynamic of mental health.
What were you like growing up?
I like to have fun. As a kid, I am the oldest of three. I have two younger brothers. I love sports, video games, and other kid games. Life was good back then, and it’s even better now. I started high school at age 12. Started college at 16. I received my Ph.D. at age 26. I knew what I wanted at a young age and nothing was going to stop me from getting it.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.iopeningenterprises.com/
- Phone: 347-676-0901
- Email: info@iopeningenterprises.com
- Instagram: @pickenspoints (Instagram)
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