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Life stories like Kela Chatman’s inspire us to believe in the human spirit’s resilience, the power of hope, and the beauty of perseverance. A childhood marked by personal tragedy, an adolescence touched by artistic awakening, and a young adulthood imbued with military discipline, her journey is a testament to her indomitable spirit.

Tragedy struck Kela’s world at the tender age of five when her mother was brutally murdered trying to help a friend escape an abusive ex-husband. This harrowing loss cast a shadow over her early life, a painful legacy that no child should bear. Yet, even amid this devastating loss, a young Kela found a sanctuary in music.

Inspired by the globally acclaimed opera star, Kathleen Battle, Kela discovered an escape in singing at the age of nine. The powerful expression of emotions and stories in opera provided a catharsis and a way to make sense of her world, a balm to her troubled heart. The television screen, too, offered comfort and guidance. On “The Cosby Show,” she found a ‘TV mother’ in the form of the character played by Phylicia Rashad, whose strength and wisdom on the screen imparted invaluable life lessons to the impressionable Kela.

The turning point in Kela’s educational journey came when her father made a considerable financial sacrifice to enroll her in private school in the 8th grade. Thriving in an environment that nurtured her potential, Kela excelled academically, evolving into a confident and accomplished student, ready to take on the challenges of the world.

On graduating from high school, Kela made the decision to attend Judson College (now closed), where she simultaneously committed to serving her country by joining the military. This choice was a pivotal one in her life, shaping her worldview and instilling in her a mindset characterized by discipline, resilience, and adaptability.

The military taught her more than just discipline and responsibility. It equipped her with a unique perspective on life, a mental toughness, and a tenacity that she would later pass onto others. She emerged from her military service not just as a veteran, but as a change-maker. 

Kela Chatman’s time in the military was a transformative period, a crucible that tempered her spirit, honed her resilience, and molded her identity in ways that would lay the foundation for her future.

The discipline, camaraderie, and structured environment gave her a sense of belonging, a new perspective, and a newfound responsibility that defined her as an individual. The military life, with its code of honor, duty, and service, resonated deeply with Kela, infusing her life with purpose and direction.

However, her journey through the military was not without profound hardship. In a tragic violation of trust, Kela was sexually assaulted during her service. This devastating event left her grappling with the haunting specter of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and debilitating anxiety. The impact of the assault reverberated throughout her life, adding a new layer of complexity to her military service and, indeed, her very identity. 

It was a challenge she had to face head-on. With strength of character and the support of mental health professionals, she began the arduous process of healing and rebuilding. Her personal safety, once something she may have taken for granted, became paramount. She learned to be hyper-vigilant and proactive about her safety, a heightened awareness that extended to her interactions with others.

 Yet, through the darkness of her trauma, Kela found a wellspring of resilience. The incident, while horrific, became a pivotal point in her journey. It imbued her with a profound understanding of PTSD, mental health issues, and personal safety that many might struggle to comprehend. This insight would later become an invaluable asset in her coaching career, allowing her to empathize deeply with others who may have had similar experiences.

Post-military, Kela found her life’s calling in coaching. Capitalizing on her unique experiences, she has devoted her career to helping military personnel transition into civilian life and teaching business owners how to harness the military mindset for success. Her approach, grounded in her military training and personal resilience, offers a unique blend of inspiration, insight, and actionable strategies.

Kela Chatman’s compelling life story has equipped her with a unique depth of understanding and empathy, making her an ideal guide for those transitioning from military service to civilian life. Her experiences have given her not only the knowledge but also the compassion to help others navigate this significant life change.

Kela Chatman’s life stands as a testament to the ability to turn adversity into strength. Her story is not merely about overcoming tragedy; it’s about transforming that tragedy into a force for good. Her work now serves as a beacon for those navigating their life transitions, a powerful reminder that with determination, a positive mindset, and the courage to face adversity, one can truly shape their destiny.