Know Who You Are: Stedman Graham Inspires High Point with a Powerful Message on Identity, Love, and Leadership

Greg Commander, founder of Commander Peace Academy, shares words of gratitude to his team and the audience for supporting the community event.

Sometimes, the greatest breakthrough in our lives doesn't come from learning something new—it comes from knowing WHO we are and remembering who we already are.

Many of us remember the powerful scene in Black Panther when the hero appeared to be on the verge of defeat until his mother called out, "Remember who you are!" In that moment, everything changed. Strength returned. Purpose became clear. Victory followed.

That same powerful message echoed throughout an unforgettable Community Appreciation Event featuring renowned author and leadership expert Stedman Graham, hosted by Commander Peace Academy at the AMI Center in High Point.

The evening began with a warm reception where Mr. Graham graciously greeted attendees, shook hands, posed for photographs, and engaged in meaningful conversations with community members before delivering a message that challenged everyone to think differently about success and leadership. Some of us follow the same routine that we see everyone else following because we truly do not know ourselves or our capacity.

At the heart of Mr. Graham's presentation was one transformative idea: identity.

He explained that when we truly know who we are—our values, strengths, talents, passions, and purpose—we gain the freedom to create the life we desire. Rather than allowing circumstances or the opinions of others to define us, we become intentional about building an environment that reflects who we are and what matters most to us. Mr. Graham reminded the audience that self-awareness is the foundation for personal growth, leadership, and meaningful success.

One of the evening's most engaging moments came when Mr. Graham invited five audience members to the stage and asked them to share the things they genuinely love. While some immediately identified their passions, others found themselves describing activities they enjoyed along with what truly inspired them. The simple exercise became a profound reminder that many people can spend their lives pursuing goals without first identifying what brings them purpose and joy. We must first identify what we love and use our skills and talents to spread love and compassion.

Many have heard the saying, "Energy flows where attention goes." As Mr. Graham shared, we focus on what we love, and we naturally move toward our purpose. Because God is love, he encouraged the audience to let love become the foundation for their decisions, relationships, and service to others. When we discover what we love to do, we are better equipped to serve our families, our communities, and the world.

The program concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, followed by remarks from local community leaders. The event brought together a remarkable gathering of leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, faith leaders, and community advocates—a true "who's who" of High Point and the surrounding communities.

Greg Commander with Bishop Kevin Sanders and his wife, Pastor Erica Sanders. The powerful husband and wife team operate a Day Center to help citizens in need of food, clothing, and other supplies.

A particularly inspiring moment came as the founder of Commander Peace Academy shared closing remarks. His unwavering commitment to mentoring and empowering young men is making a lasting difference, strengthening not only individual lives but the entire community. Programs like Commander Peace Academy remind us that investing in our youth is one of the greatest investments we can make in our future.

Special appreciation is extended to Bishop Kevin Sanders and his wife, Pastor Erica Sanders, for graciously hosting the event at the AMI Center and creating such a welcoming atmosphere for learning, fellowship, and inspiration. (The AMI Center is a wonderful Day center for the homeless that looks like a luxury spa).

The evening served as a powerful reminder that before we can change our circumstances, we must first understand our identity. When we remember who we are, discover what we love, and dedicate our gifts to serving others, we become capable of building lives filled with purpose, impact, and lasting significance.

High Point experienced more than a lecture—it experienced a call to remember, to grow, and to lead. Judging by the enthusiasm throughout the evening, this is only the beginning of many more inspiring events to come through Commander Peace Academy.

At the end of the program, Greg Commander shares with the audience a powerful song he wrote.

Special Thanks

A heartfelt thank you to Joe Dudley Jr. for the gracious invitation to this outstanding Community Appreciation Event. Special appreciation also goes to Sister Marjorie for ensuring my registration was complete and that I was able to attend.

We also extend sincere gratitude to Commander Greg for his unwavering strength, vision, and determination to serve the High Point community through Commander Peace Academy. Your commitment to empowering others continues to make a lasting impact on future generations. From everyone at Virtue Today and MWA Magazine, we salute each of you for investing in people, strengthening our communities, and reminding us that leadership begins with knowing who we are and serving with love.

Stedman Graham and Dr. Audrey Muhammad, publisher of Virtue Today and MWA Magazine

(Virtue Today Magazine is an independently owned Black women’s magazine based on the principles of Proverbs 31. It has been uplifting our community people for the past 20 years. Its focus is on sharing positive news with class and intelligence. Virtue Today has featured Erykah Badu, Iyanla Vanzant, Nuri Muhammad, Minister Farrakhan, and many more.    For more information about Virtue Today Magazine, sign up to be on its mailing list at virtuetodaymag.com. Support Virtue Magazine's women's event at mothersofcivilization.org)

Dining area at AMI center for community members.

Salon for members of the community who may need a place to wash their hair if they don't have a home.