Now that summer camp is officially over for metro Atlanta area school kids, we were finally able to catch up with Camp I AM’s fearless leader, Chandra P. Southern, as she prepares for her next workshop. Southern is an author and the founder and executive director of the nonprofit organization Delivered Vessels Inc. and she’s on a mission to prevent abuse and exploitation of children and to provide support for sexually abused youth in our community.
Southern gave us some insight on how she’s been able to achieve success:
What is your favorite affirmation and how has it been a factor in your life?
My favorite is “God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ask or think.” This has empowered me to dream big and not be afraid to put myself out there. Because of this, we’ve been able to develop partnerships in the Cobb County and greater Atlanta community and help so many children with our after-school and summer programs such as Camp I AM. Believing in this affirmation helps me to expand our programs year over year offering everything from academic enrichment, STEM programs and even horseback riding. God is so awesome it just reminds me that just when you think you can’t do something, He can do that thing and more.
How has being empathetic and listening to others helped shape your success?
Having empathy for others is what drives me to do what I do. I’ve committed myself to encouraging youth to be empowered and to promoting healthy relationships. One of the main goals of my organization is to encourage youth who are being exploited to “please tell.” Being empathetic helps me to have a better understanding of what they may be going through in life and express genuine concern for their well-being. I believe my purpose in life is to help others. I am very passionate about children and I advocate, mentor and give them the tools they need to succeed, a sense of hope and build their self-confidence and self-esteem as they begin to establish and or re-establish their self-worth.
Please describe your leadership style and tell us why you think it works.
I believe in the old saying, “team work makes the dream work.” I possess the democratic style of leadership because I include others in the decision making process. This tends to give them a sense of ownership in the organization so they can be true “stakeholders.” As a stakeholder, they are more willing to assist the organization in reaching its goals. I love to see people tap into their creativity and take the initiative on projects.
How has goal-setting factored into you being able to attain success?
Setting goals is immensely important in what we do because when we do not meet our goals, the lives of children and families can be impacted. We also teach this skill to the youth in our programs so that they can begin to sharpen this necessary life tool. When you set goals you are able to see the blueprint in front of you. If you follow the blueprint, you can not only see where you are going, but see where you can create efficiency.
You’re obviously passionate about what you do. Where would you be without passion?
I would not have a clue of what my purpose in life was. I would just be working a daily routine, day in and day out, watching the years fly by and not feeling fulfilled. I want my life to have meaning and leave a legacy for my children.
What has been the motivating factor that’s contributed to your success?
My children keep me motivated daily. Not just my birth children, but all of the children whose lives are affected daily by unhealthy environments or abuse. Being a motivating force and a mentor to them is the most motivating aspect of what I do. I want to contribute to making the lives of all my children better. I want to leave a legacy that they will be proud of. I love seeing smiles on the faces of children and youth.
Finish the sentence: Learning to let go of trying to be perfect has helped me …
… Grow. Most people strive for perfection, but we have to know that we are going to hit a few bumps along the way. I’ve learned, and now I know that it’s okay. Just learn from your mistakes and keep moving. Stay focused on your goals.
Southern is an active volunteer, a dedicated wife, mother, and mentor. Her passion for service began early in life, as she is a former volunteer with the Big Brother Big Sister organization. She is a proud alumnus of Winston-Salem State University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing.
