We recently had the chance to connect with Vonny Thompson and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Vonny, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy in creating more balance in my personal life. Enjoying quality time with loved ones, doing things that make me laugh, and being present.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ms. Thompson, and I’m the founder of Getting Students Ahead, a virtual tutoring business dedicated to helping students reach their full potential in Reading and Math. I work with learners across the country—including Florida, New York, Atlanta, Vermont, and Boston—providing engaging one-on-one / group sessions that build confidence and close academic gaps.
In addition to tutoring, I also have a fitness business called Littt Fitness and I run an Etsy shop called Bright Minds by Ms. T, where I create educational printables and learning packets for grades Pre-K through 8. My resources have reached families all over—from Hawaii and Colorado to Jamaica and even parts of Europe. Knowing that my materials are helping children worldwide stay excited about learning has been incredibly rewarding.
What started as a small passion for helping children succeed has grown into two thriving educational brands that continue to inspire and support young minds every day.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with my oldest sister. She’s always been a true go-getter. Self-employed for over seven years as a mental health counselor and now returning to school to earn her nursing degree. Watching her balance entrepreneurship, education, and family has shown me what resilience and determination really look like.
Her example constantly reminds me that I can do anything I set my mind to. She motivates me to keep pushing forward with my tutoring business, Getting Students Ahead, my fitness brand, and my Etsy shop, Bright Minds by Ms. T. Her drive has taught me that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about the consistency, courage, and purpose behind it.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that it’s okay to rest—you don’t always have to be the strong one. You’ve carried so much on your shoulders trying to keep everything together, but real strength isn’t found in never breaking—it’s found in learning how to rebuild. Every challenge you face will teach you something about who you are and what you’re capable of. The moments you once saw as setbacks are actually shaping your resilience and purpose. One day, you’ll learn that rest doesn’t mean you’ve given up—it means you’re recharging for what’s next. Keep your heart open, keep your faith strong, know that everything you’re going through is preparing you for the woman you’re becoming and always keep God first. You are powerful, even in your pauses.
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?
One project I’m deeply committed to, no matter how long it takes, is publishing my children’s book, “Addi & Adri Begin Their Science Adventure”. This book represents more than a story—it’s a legacy of learning, imagination, and empowerment. Through it, I want to inspire young readers, especially those who look like my daughters, to see themselves as curious thinkers and future scientists. Every page I create reminds me why I started: to make learning feel exciting, relatable, and full of possibility. The journey hasn’t been quick or easy, but I believe in its purpose. I want children to know that their ideas matter, their dreams are valid, and that learning can be fun. No matter how long it takes, I’m dedicated to finishing this project and sharing it with the world because I know it has the power to spark something beautiful in the next generation.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m creating—whether it’s designing learning materials for students, choreographing a new Zumba/ dance fitness routine for my fitness business or writing pages of my children’s book. Those moments quiet the noise around me and remind me why I do what I do. It’s when I’m fully present, blending my passions for teaching, movement, and creativity into something that inspires others.
I also find deep peace when I’m spending time with my daughters, Addi and Adri, or sitting by the beach watching the sunrise as I play Gospel music. There’s something about the calm waves and the soft morning light that centers me and helps me reset. Sometimes peace comes simply from being around people who are special to me—sharing laughter, conversation, or just quiet company.
Even when life gets busy or uncertain, peace finds me in those simple moments—creating, loving, and being surrounded by purpose and connection. That’s when I feel grounded, fulfilled, and truly at home within myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gettingstudentsahead.com & https://www.etsy.com/shop/BrightMindsByMsT
- Instagram: @getting.students.ahead.llc
Image Credits
Kingston
Kass
Paris
Jordon
