Ashley White

Activist, Artist, Athlete, Educator/Teacher, Global soul, Life mentor, Project manager, Social entrepreneur, Student, World traveler

I am a 26 year old woman who is NOW a firm believer that dreams do come true all you have to do is follow them. I have recently created my own nonprofit and have been faced with all different kinds of challenges through this process. My dream is to strengthen human connections while spreading the gift of a smile. My life is one of a kind, from being a local beekeeper, working two jobs (a gymnastics coach, and a respite worker who provides aid to individuals with disabilities). My passions and understanding for people have lead me to where I am today. I created A New Strength through Confidence, INC in 2015 to help improve many social issues that have not only affected me personally but everyone around me as well. I decided to take matters into my own hands by "Painting the world one nail at the time". My educational back ground includes attending Miracosta College where I received my associates degree in education. I then continued to further my desire for knowledge at California State University San Marcos and received my bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with an emphasis is sociology. Going the distance is not a problem and this where where it all begins. I found the secrets to life in the open water. On July 6th, 2016 I will be swimming from Long Beach California to Catalina Island, 21 miles! Why I’m swimming the Catalina Channel is to raise money for A New Strength through Confidence, INC. Its mission is to “Strengthen the community by providing a space for self-expression that encourages self-confidence, communication and the choice to heal through the art of touch!” ANEW. While swimming I discovered life is all about point A to point B. The unknown is a beautiful thing and while traveling from one destination to the next you will be faced with the mystery of life, because anything can happen in the water. I started to apply my realization that occurred to me during my first swim to my everyday life. I have overcome many obstacles throughout my life from a magical chaotic upbringing, learning disabilities (dyslexia), my father's death when I was 15, putting myself through school and eventually graduating from college, suffering an injury that left permanent nerve damage to my right ankle, and so much more. It has been a struggle to say the least. On top of all that, I was still trying to figure out who I was and what I was here do to. Mentally, physically, and emotionally I was exhausted and suffered from depression. These were only a few hurdles that I have been faced with while on my journey to the finish line, which was to find my own happiness. Today I’m here to share my success and to pay it forward.

Being happy! Which includes everything from picking up trash, helping, swimming, disabilities, healthy living, extreme activities/sports, beekeeping, journaling/ books, fine arts and so much more

A New Strength through Confidence, inc. Balance is key. Follow your heart because it will never lead you down the wrong path. Be the change you wish to see in the world. It's the little things in life that matter most. Self sorrow will never get you anywhere. Live the life you were meant too! Smile everyday, inhale love exhale gratitude and do your best. Never live in fear just walk through it! Don't just give help but ask for it too!

A story can inspire people it’s the chance to hear/see that it’s the little things in life that matter most. An idea is contagious and happiness is for everyone! It’s all of our jobs to encourage one another and to share, care and, love. With the support of others any idea can become a reality! My life has changed so much and I will never be able to say thank you to the speakers that I got to watch online that gave me the courage to follow my heart. That is why I’m here today to be apart and to meet inspiring people who will forever become a part of my story. A smile can change the world and I challenge you to test this theory… step out side of the box it's beautiful out here!

The Circus, from fire hula hooping, silks, trapeze, aerial lyra hoop, slack lining, rock climbing, snorkeling, collaging, and falling asleep anywhere! Just to name a few...