Check Out Dr. Terriyln Rivers-Cannon’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Terriyln Rivers-Cannon.

Hi Dr. Rivers-Cannon aka Dr. RC, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

As a native of Savannah, Georgia, I embody dedication and excellence in my diverse roles as an author, co-author, national/international speaker, consultant, trainer, and school social worker. My impact transcends geographical boundaries, as I inspire, empower, and motivate individuals at the local, state, and national/international levels.

Additionally, my journey is both heartfelt and humble as I have shared previously. My trajectory in the field of Social Work began unexpectedly, (tear) sparked by conversations with my Auntie Katie Mae Rivers Tindal, a College Professor in the field. While sitting in my grandmother’s home on the southside in Savannah, Georgia, I found myself drawn to her work as she graded papers and shared insights into her profession.

Despite my initial reluctance, Auntie Katie’s passion for Social Work gradually captivated me. I observed how she empowered her students and colleagues to advocate and stand tall for themselves and others as social justice issues/concerns were being brought to the forefront with intentionality, sparking my interest in the K- 12 and collegiate levels along with organizations like NABSW(National Association of Black Social Workers, and NASW (National Association of Social Workers).

Over time, I found myself drawn closer to her, absorbing every word she shared and immersing myself in the language of this uniquely skilled social work profession.

Through her mentorship and guidance, I began to realize the power of advocacy and the impact it can have on not only individuals and communities but society as a whole. Today, I am grateful for the journey that led me here, equipped with a passion for social justice and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While my journey has been rewarding, it hasn’t always been smooth. Like any path, it had its share of obstacles and challenges. One of the struggles I faced was overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, especially as I navigated through the early stages of my career. There were moments when I questioned my abilities and whether I was truly making a difference.

Additionally, balancing personal and professional responsibilities posed a challenge at times. The demands of the job, coupled with other commitments, often required careful time management and prioritization. Finding a harmonious balance between work and personal life was essential but not always easy.

Furthermore, advocating for change within systems and institutions could be met with resistance. Addressing systemic issues and promoting inclusivity sometimes meant challenging the status quo, which could be met with pushback from certain quarters.

However, each obstacle presented an opportunity for growth and learning. Overcoming these challenges strengthened my resolve and reaffirmed my commitment to the values of social work. Through perseverance, resilience, and a supportive network of mentors and colleagues, I was able to navigate through these obstacles and continue moving forward on my journey.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a creative leader, transformational speaker, and trainer specializing in various areas of social work, with a particular focus on human trafficking, mental health coaching, trauma, teen pregnancy, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging (DEIJB).

Throughout my career, I have been known for my unshakable commitment to empowering individuals and communities, especially those marginalized or vulnerable. I take pride in my ability to address complex issues with empathy, compassion, and strategic interventions aimed at fostering positive change.

My expertise in human trafficking, mental health coaching, trauma, and DEIJB has allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of countless students, families, communities, and educational stakeholders advocating for their rights and providing support to navigate through challenging circumstances.

As a transformational speaker and trainer, I strive to inspire others to unlock their full potential and become agents of change in their own lives and communities. My leadership roles within various organizations and associations further demonstrate my dedication to advancing the field of social work per the values of our NASW Code of Ethics of promoting service, social justice, dignity, and worth of a person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence on a broader scale.

What sets me apart from others is my holistic approach to addressing social issues, integrating my expertise across multiple domains to provide comprehensive support and advocacy. I am most humbly proud of the positive impact I have been able to make in the lives of those I serve, empowering them to overcome adversity and thrive in the face of challenges.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me, is about achieving personal fulfillment and making a positive impact on others and the world around me. It’s not solely about material wealth or accolades, but rather about living a purposeful and meaningful life aligned with my values and passions.

Success is measured by the relationships I build, the difference I make in people’s lives, and the legacy I leave behind. It’s about continually striving to grow, learn, and evolve as a person while contributing positively to society. Ultimately, success is about finding joy and fulfillment in both professional endeavors and personal relationships, knowing that I have lived authentically and made a difference in the lives of others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.soarwithkatie.com
• Instagram: @soarwithkatie
• Facebook: @DrTerriylnRivers-Cannon
• Twitter: @SoarwithDoc_RC

Image Credits
Lakisha Ross and Kim Taylor (Kimazing Photos)