Conversations with India Lockett

Today we’d like to introduce you to India Lockett.

Hi India, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, and although I didn’t grow up in the wealthiest family, my mom always did her best to make sure I enjoyed my childhood. But my freshman year of high school was a reality check for me. I had to miss out on a lot of things, including prom, because I couldn’t afford to go. During those times, I would tell myself that I was making these sacrifices so the generations after me wouldn’t have to.
My freshman year was also when I joined The Lady Elites, a community majorette dance team that honestly changed my life. It was through my coach, Christopher Bolden, and my dance sisters that I learned so much about myself and what it felt like to be seen and appreciated. I remember telling my mom that I would rather give up my 16th birthday party and go to Dallas with my team for a competition. That’s how much my team meant to me. When my coach found out, he threw me a surprise party. I had never had a surprise party before, and that moment meant more to me than people probably realized. It made me feel seen in a way I’ll never forget.
Being a part of The Lady Elites taught me how important it is to pour into others because I know what it feels like to have someone pour into you. Now, I’m a sophomore Biology Pre-Health major at the illustrious Alabama State University, working toward becoming a nurse. If you had asked me four years ago where I would be today, I honestly wouldn’t have known what to say. But now, I know I have a purpose, and I can’t wait to give back to my community in any way I can. I want little kids who come from backgrounds like mine to know that what they go through doesn’t define them, and just because they have to make sacrifices now doesn’t mean they can’t have the life they dream of later.

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, my journey definitely hasn’t been smooth. I’ve struggled with perfectionism and constantly beating myself up when things don’t go the way I planned. Losing my great-grandmother and one of my dance sisters also took a huge mental toll on me, and my freshman year of college was especially hard trying to balance grief, school, and my personal life. On top of that, being a first-generation college student comes with its own pressure because I know I’m not just doing this for myself, but also for my family and the generations after me. There have been times when I’ve questioned myself, but these experiences have taught me to keep going even when things get hard. I’m learning that I don’t have to be perfect to succeed, and no matter what life throws at me, I still have a purpose to fulfill.
I’ve learned if I plant the seed I just have to wait for it to blossom.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m currently a sophomore at the illustrious Alabama State University, majoring in Biology Pre-Health and working toward my goal of becoming a nurse. As a first-generation college student, I carry the responsibility of creating a better future for myself and the generations after me. My experiences with The Lady Elites taught me the importance of leadership, community, and pouring into others. Although my journey hasn’t been easy, I’m learning and growing every day, and I look forward to using my experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who have poured into me along the way. My coach Chris played a huge role in my life by making me feel seen, supported, and reminding me that I mattered. My great-grandmother was my biggest fan and one of my strongest supporters, and even though she’s no longer here, her love will always be a part of me. My dance sisters, Epiphany Harris, who now attends The Academy of Arts, and Gennia Grimes, a former Alabama State University student who sadly passed away in March 2025, also played a major role in my journey. They were more than just teammates; they were family. Lastly, my mommy has become one of my biggest supporters, and so much of what I do is motivated by wanting to make her proud. Each of these people has helped shape who I am, and I carry the love, lessons, and support they’ve given me into everything I do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Indiaaaciaraa._