Eulois Cleckley shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Eulois, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I believe that many people are struggling with how to recover from failure. In today’s society, we are often criticized for not being perfect. We sometimes fail at relationships or on the job, and that failure can consume our lives. The key to success is your ability to overcome failure, persevere, and move forward.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I currently serve as the CEO of Friends of The Underline Inc., leading the overall management and leadership of the organization’s finances, fundraising, programming, advocacy, and developing strategic partnerships by working with public and private stakeholders to deliver a first-class urban space redevelopment project that supports, business, entertainment, nature, culture, art, health and wellness, connected by a 10-mile, 120-acre park, urban trail, and transit system.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
The lack of communication breaks bonds between people. Oftentimes, we don’t listen to each other because we are focused on proving a point rather than gaining understanding. If we each operate with respect for each other, acknowledge our differences and still appreciate others’ thoughts and words, it will lead to more productive dialogue and a greater bond between all people.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering is a part of growing into the best version of oneself. Pain and suffering allow you to appreciate joy and not take those moments for granted. When you overcome pain and suffering and still accomplish a goal, you are more fulfilled. Suffering requires you to build the strength within, preparing you for all of life’s challenges. Therefore, success is a byproduct of using a moment where you have suffered to work harder in order to survive and still deliver results.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe it’s my responsibility to help improve our community and society. I feel obligated to do so because of the generations who came before me, those who sacrificed and, as a result, made it possible for me to have the opportunities I’ve had throughout my career.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story that I would want to be told about me is simple: that I achieved my potential and lived a leadership lifestyle that made people’s lives better.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theunderline.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunderlinemia/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theunderlinemia
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theunderlinemia/
Image Credits
Miami-Dade County Photographer; Friends of The Underline
