Meet Victoria Pannell!

The phrase “I am too young” is officially stripped from your vocabulary after reading about Victoria Pannell. This dynamic young lady has created more change for her generation than some have in their entire lives. At the tender age of 12 she has decided the path of activism is one she will walk down and conquer.

Victoria Pannell, 12 year old model, actress, activist and honor student is from Harlem, NY. By the young age of 5, she had already appeared on the Today Show to talk about the family’s food pantry and by 6 was the youngest volunteer to go on the American Family Drive which aided the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Victoria does numerous speaking engagements on homelessness, being fatherless, and mental health services for children. She is currently Rev. Sharpton’s National Action Network Northeast Regional Director for NAN’s young people movement. Her powerful words can be heard every Saturday morning on Rev. Sharpton’s live radio broadcast talking about issues the youth face today. The unstoppable activist recently led  an anti-violence march in Harlem  at Wright Brothers Playground.

Time to meet this AMAZING young lady…

What inspired you to make a difference in your neighborhood and change others lives?

I first realized I had a voice after I made a speech at a Father/ Daughter’s dance and I was speaking about about my father not there.  After I said my speech a young man came up to me with his head down and dark shades. As he started talking I realized tears were coming down. He said, “ If I would’ve heard your speech earlier on in my life, I would’ve made better decisions.” After that moment I knew I had a powerful voice that had the power to change people’s lives. My words and my experiences at a young age were able to touch someone.

They’re some adults who are frightened very easily, how did you find the courage to lead the non violence rally and just be a positive leader in general?

I get my strength and energy from all the loving support that surrounds me! All of my family, friends, and even Rev. Al Sharpton gives me words of encouragement on a regular basis. I can never let them down or others who are counting on me down. My mother is always there supporting me. Even when I feel like I can’t do anymore she is always there to  remind me to continue to push myself because others are looking up to  me. She  knows that it’s just not about me but all the people that my words and actions can touch. When you have a strong support system like I do, it’s impossible to not be courageous.

You were named National Action Network Northeast Regional Director, What do you think it takes to be a good leader?

The biggest piece of advice I would give to anyone in a leadership rope is be a great listener. It’s always important to others to be open to opinions and helpful advice. Even if you sometimes don’t feel like listening, it’s important because your words of encouragement  can help improve someone’s entire situation. On the other hand, people looking up to you may give you helpful advice that will allow you to become a better leader too!

You have an awesome singing voice, where do you see your singing taking you in the future?

Well, it was talent I was naturally blessed with. I usually just sing in church. I also sing the National Anthem from time to time. It’s  just something I like to do in my past time. I do not see it growing into a major career.  My main focus is my activism.

Who are your role models?

My biggest role model is President Obama! He has so many people trying to bring him down with a negative energy and  he continues with a positive attitude. No matter what comes his way he still has  a “Yes We Can!” attitude! Being able to push pass people’s negative words and keep rising to the top is a perfect example of a good leader. You’re always going to have people who want to knock you down but you have to take control of your vision so you don’t get discouraged by other peoples opinions.

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job is to be a journalist! I would love to be a journalist because it’s the perfect way to connect with the people. It’s the perfect way to educate them of what is going on in the world

Fun Faves- Food? Artist/ Song?

My favorite food is hands down home made macaroni & cheese with 5 different cheeses! Yum!  My favorite musical artist is Mindless Behavior. My favorite one out of the group is Prodigy. And my favorite song hands down is My Girl by the Temptations!

Check out Victoria Pannell’s speaking in Washington D.C.

Check out the video of the non violence rally Victoria led that we posted for ‘Speak Out’ Wednesday in December…