Overcoming Adversity: Be Inspired to Live Your Best Life
As a student, I faced many challenges, including an undiagnosed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss that went unnoticed for years. Despite the odds, I persevered and thrived academically.
But it’s not just about my story. It’s about inspiring your students to believe in themselves and their potential to achieve even greater things. As a motivational speaker, I share my personal experiences and offer practical advice to help students overcome their own obstacles and live their best lives.
It’s one thing to tell students what they need to do to be successful, but hearing from someone who has been in their shoes and never gave up is more powerful. Let me help inspire your students to reach for the stars and overcome any challenges that come their way.
“As we move on with our lives and go into the workforce, let us not forget certain values which should define who we are and how we behave. These include citizenship, commitment, diligence, integrity, scholarship, and trustworthiness. They should always be a part of us,” Ib Dabo, during his graduation speech during the University of Baltimore’s May 2009 commencement ceremony.
Soundbite from Ib’s graduation speech at The University of Baltimore in May 2009
Education
Towson University
Applied Information Technology Program
In 2013, Ib earned a Master of Science degree in Applied Information Technology with certificates in Information Systems Management and Information Security and Assurance.
Towson University
Graduate Fellowship Award
Ib’s story is one of perseverance in the face of challenges. For years, he dealt with an undiagnosed hearing loss, but he didn’t let that stop him from pursuing his dreams. In 2013, while studying for his master’s degree at Towson University, Ib underwent a hearing screening that revealed the extent of his condition, which was devastating news.
Despite this setback, Ib continued to push forward and make the most of his potential. Just four months later, he was one of only 20 students selected out of a pool of 208 to receive the prestigious Towson University Graduate Fellowship Award, which recognizes exceptional academic and personal achievement among graduate students.
If you’re looking for a speaker to inspire your students, Ib can share his story and show them that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.
University of Baltimore
Commencement Ceremony
Ib’s academic achievements were impressive from the start. He excelled as an honor student throughout his undergraduate studies, culminating in his selection as the representative of the Senior Class to speak at the May 2009 UB Commencement Ceremony.
Ib’s dedication and hard work paid off with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Information Systems, reflecting his commitment to mastering this field of study.
University of Baltimore
Annual Scholarship Luncheon
Ib was a guest speaker at the 2009 Annual Scholarship Luncheon Celebration hosted by then-University President Robert L. Bogomolny.
University of Baltimore
President’s Award
UB Provost Susan Zacur presents Ib with the President’s Award “for Academic Excellence, Leadership, and Outstanding Contributions to Community Service and the University of Baltimore” in 2009.
The President’s Awards represent what it means to face your fears.
Before Ib enrolled at UB, he struggled with self-doubt that he could succeed in the Management Information Systems program. He thought it was an impossible career to pursue. He was scared to fail. Then something remarkable happened that caused a shift that he never regrets.
University of Baltimore
Service Learning Scholar Award
Service Learning Scholar Award for “successfully combining public service with educational goals, thus enhancing student learning while benefiting the larger community.”
University of Baltimore
Certificate of Merit
Darlene Smith (Dean, Merrick School of Business) presents Ib with the Certificate of Merit for “academic excellence within the Management Information Systems Program.”
University of Baltimore
Outstanding Member Award
Outstanding Member Award for “outstanding contribution and exemplary leadership to the Student Events Board.”
University of Baltimore
Laurence Short Academic Award
Laurence Short Academic Award for International Students for “academic excellence and co-curricular involvement.”
University of Baltimore
UB Service Award
UB Service Award honoring alumni who dedicate time and effort to the University of Baltimore through volunteer service. Photo above: poster board on UB campus.
University of Baltimore
Community Service Day UB 2013
Baltimore City Community College
Commencement Ceremony
At Baltimore City Community College (BCCC), Ib received an Associate of Science degree in Business Administration.
A member of the college’s Student Governance Board, he received the Citation of Distinguished Scholar from the college’s then-president Dr. Richard M. Turner, III. He also received the Phi Theta Kappa Award and made it on the National Dean’s List.
Fourah Bay College Primary School
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony)
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony) in Ib’s native country, Sierra Leone.
Fourah Bay College Primary School
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony)
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony) in Ib’s native country, Sierra Leone.
Fourah Bay College Primary School
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony)
Prize Giving Day (Awards Ceremony) in Ib’s native country, Sierra Leone.
I found your presentation to be very interesting because I learned more about UB’s technology and how finding the right fit is not as easy as one would think. I have a better appreciation for the IT decision making process. As an Honor Student and a totally involved student, you have given UB more than most. We have benefitted by your presence. I know you will do well and serve as a good role model for other young men who need to get out of their feeling that they can’t make a difference so why even try.