Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Kolawole.
Hi Michael, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up in a first-generation Nigerian American household faith was the pillar of my family’s identity. Over 40-plus years ago, my parents came over from Lagos, Nigeria, to the east suburbs of Dallas, Texas, to reside in a city by the name of Rowlett. Being the youngest of four, my siblings and I had dreams and aspirations of helping our parents and pushing our family to new heights. My mother wanted to instill certain habits into us that could consistently guide us on the right path in whichever endeavor we chose. One of those habits was praying. Giving thanks to our Heavenly Father for what we did have and coincidentally, what we didn’t. We always knew that all we had was all we needed. Showing gratitude before and after the task at hand for the blessings he bestowed upon us was indeed a way of life for me and my family. The goal was and still is to give thanks and to pay it forward. Little did I know, this was just the start to The Pray Before I Eat Foundation.
Pray Before I Eat (PB4IE) is a mantra I created that was a result of my mother’s teachings that she instilled into me. It doesn’t matter what field or space you’re in, whether you’re a doctor, teacher, firefighter, athlete, etc., we want to strive to do the best we can in all we do. The word “eat” in our name is a double entendre, which also is the correlation of striving for success and wanting to do well at whatever you do, whenever you do it! Our mission is to help homeless shelters and foundations, build camaraderie within the youth, and form a support group for single fathers in Dallas communities and worldwide.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road! I feel those who are in the space of curating or creating something have their respectable roadblocks before the vision comes to life. A few early challenges when launching The Pray Before I Eat Foundation was finding the problems in our community that we can focus on being an assist to. Another challenge was creating a logo that was notable, and that represented everything our foundation stands for. The other side of things hasn’t been bad at all. Surrounding myself with like-minded individuals that want to make an impact in our community has definitely made things a lot smoother.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently a 4-year professional basketball player with experience in Southeast Asia, Europe, and NBA Africa. I was drafted 15th overall to compete in the return of Slam Ball and have been training to prepare for the upcoming season. Aside from my profession, I am in the entrepreneurial space with philanthropy work as well. I think what sets me apart from others is my humble and optimistic approach to any and everything! I pride myself in being a student of life but also leading when given the opportunity to do so. My work ethic and ability to relate to others gives me the ability to adapt in any setting.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’m not too sure, actually. I feel if you are familiar with my foundation or even curious, I am willing to openly share my story and even answer questions. I wouldn’t say I’m an open book, but you never know who may be inspired by your story just by the things you do tell them!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.PrayBeforeIEat.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialpb4ie/
- Facebook: Pray Before I Eat
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kolawole-2177611a8
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/officialpb4ie
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/mak.training/
