Kim Lanham, 62, never believed she could convert her painful journey into something that gives her joy and strength. The Stratford veteran was a victim of sexual assault and addiction, and she was on the verge of losing her house. Nonetheless, she overcame all of her obstacles to become a successful entrepreneur.
Lanham joined the United States military at the age of 21. She said she was sexually abused while serving in the army. Lanham couldn’t believe what had happened to her, but she refused to let the ordeal define her.
“I was like crying for a week, like, ‘wow! That happened to me?’” Lanham recalled to News12 New Jersey but she said she turned her pain into power.
The Black vet battled addiction nearly a decade ago as well. Today, she looks back on her past with pride, knowing that she did not let her addiction dim her brightness.
“I am going to remain clean and sober because I love my life today,” she said. She added that no matter what life throws at her, she will stay positive, healthy and happy.
She also talked about nearly losing her home 10 years ago but beating the foreclosure by starting a business called “Bag’z N’ Thang’z.” The company sells Afrocentric goods. Handbags in traditional African colors are prominent among her offerings.
Lanham credits her journey to her African soul, which never gives up. About Black History Month, the US veteran stated that she observes the month by reflecting on how far she has come. She also wants more Black entrepreneurs to share their stories in order to encourage others. She went on to say that every Black experience is part of the larger Black history narrative.
“If you speak it out, you’re freeing yourself, so that’s why I don’t mind telling my story today,” Lanham said.