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Check Out Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson. Them and their team share their story with us below:

Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, at an early age Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson became a caregiver to her younger brother, Dwyane Wade, along with her other siblings and extended family. 

While caring for her family she developed a passion for giving back to underserved youth. This passion led her down a journey of success to become the Motivational Speaker, Author, and Philanthropist Leader she is today. 

Philanthropist 

Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson has been a leader in the non-profit sector for over a decade 

In 2006, she became the Executive Director of Wade’s World Foundation. She was responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, and strategic plan of Wades World Foundation. Key duties included fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. Under her leadership the organization raised over $3.4 million in the 1st 5 years and received numerous awards. She continued to add various programs around the world until 2017. 

In 2017, Tragil pursued her personal passion for giving back to underserved youth by launching her 501(c)3 organization, America’s Big Sisters Foundation. The mission of America’s Big Sisters Foundation is to empower, encourage, and educate young women to become independent, self-sufficient, goal-oriented, positive, individuals who can excel in society by breaking cycles of lack. 

Tragil is happily married to Edward Johnson and has 2 bonus children. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. I have faced many obstacles and struggles along the way as a result of growing up in a family that struggled with drug addiction. I’ve dealt with abandonment, depression, rejection, and many other things. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Tragil has mastered the following Educational Achievements: 

In 1998 she received an Associate Degree from San Diego City College in Early Childhood Education. 

In 2005 she earned a Bachelor’s Degree at Chicago State University with a Major in Elementary Education and a Minor in Psychology 

In 2014 she pursued her passion for Ministry and obtained a Ministerial Certification 

In 2015 she received her Certification in Transformational Foundation, Grants and Strategies, Principals in Leadership and Board Building at the University of Notre Dame 

In 2021 she received her Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism from The Global of International Alliance Advocate University. 

Career/Professional Achievements 

2003 – 2005 Community High School – Personal Assistant and Teacher

2005 – 2007 Educate and Power Academy – Principal and Part Owner

2007 – 2009 CSMG – Sports Marketing

2009 – 2019 Creative Artist Agency – Client Manager

2006 – 2017 Wades World Foundation – Executive Director

2017 – Present CEO/Founder – America’s Big Sisters Foundation

Tragil Wade Inc was created to assist in Educating and Empowering people around the world by sharing REAL LIFE testimonies. Tragil is a passionate speaker who proudly shares her story in hopes of motivating others to live their dreams despite all odds and surmount obstacles to living their best lives. She is an infectious speaker who brings excitement to any stage she graces. It is her desire to encourage youth and provide practical life skills and spiritual tolls to them to successfully navigate through life. Tragil is perfect to speak to schools, youth groups, ministries conferences, retreats, special events, and more. 

Some of her speaking topics include: 

Live to Dream – Accessing your full potential 

In the Waiting Room – How to wait without losing hope 

Empower Youth- Steps to effective Mentorship 

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is my grandmother taking me to church. It’s my favorite because I believe that being introduced to Jesus and developing a relationship with him is what saved my life. My faith taught me how to stand in the midst of adversity and never give up. 

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