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All young people need good role models, and black youth especially need positive and real examples beyond the famous and wealthy people they see on SportsCenter highlights and MTV Cribs. While success as a celebrity athlete or entertainer may seem like an achievable dream, the reality is that young African Americans have a much greater chance of succeeding in the professions through education and hard work—and a mentor to show them the path.

Real Role Models introduces high school and college-age African Americans to twenty-three black professionals who have achieved a high level of success in their chosen fields and who tell their stories to inspire young people to pursue a professional career and do the work necessary to achieve their dreams.

Houston role models who are featured in this collection include:

Rufus Cormier, JD, Partner at the Baker Botts Law Firm
Willie Miles, Jr., Founder and CEO of Miles Wealth Management
Deavra Daughtry, President and CEO of Excellent Care Management
Je'Caryous Johnson, Founder and CEO of I'm Ready Productions

Joah Spearman lives in Austin where he consults with companies and nonprofits on social media and is working on a book about the city's live music scene.  Read Joah's blog here.