Every individual goes through life with different experiences that in turn influence the things that they are passionate about and want to change. As we continue celebrating Black History Month, we want to amplify the stories of individuals who have and are continuing to change the way they move within their communities.

How is Paul George changing the way he moves? Read his story below. 

#ChangeTheWay You Show Up

1. What makes you proud to be a black man?
   Recognizing how far I’ve come. I was raised in Palmdale, an area where there wasn’t much opportunity, and not a whole lot of dreaming – it wasn’t a thing that people talked about or encouraged others to do. I reflect on where life has brought me and how everything has manifested for me so far and I’m blessed – but it didn’t come from a dream. It came from me putting in the effort every day and working hard. I’m proud that I can be an example of that and show people in my community and others like it that no matter where you come from, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
   
   
2. How do you celebrate Black History month? 
   Spending time with those around me who I love and getting involved in my community in some capacity. 

3. Who is one of your greatest inspirations in the black community?
   That’s a tough one. If I had to choose, Kobe Bryant. He was always a man I looked up to in my early years and someone who I aspired to be like both on and off the court. His persistence and dedication to the game gave me more reasons to work hard. 
   
   
4. How do you imagine black voices being amplified?
   Change comes from within, which means showing up and leading by example. One person can’t do it alone, it’s an effort we all have to make in the world to create change. 
   
   
5. What does #ChangeTheWay mean to you/how have you implemented this into your daily life?
   Being in the public light I realize that the way I show up not only affects me, but my fiancé, children, friends, teammates, and others around me. I want to be able to wake up and go to bed knowing I’ve shown up as my best self every day. So for it to mean one thing, isn’t possible. It’s a lot of things. 
   
   
6. How can we #ChangeTheWay together?
   I think recognizing what is lacking, what can be better, what is happening around the world, and doing what you can, both big and small, with the resources you have. Something I hope to do more is inspiring the youth to achieve greatness through hard work and consistency. Reminding them, by example, that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.