We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Sallam Still and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Sallam, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born and raised in sunny South Florida and I am of Haitian descent. My mother came to the US when she was only 17 to start a new life.

Growing up life was not all roses, we struggled a lot as my mother was the sole provider for my sisters and I. Because of this, my older sister and I had to grow up quickly. We took on a lot of adult responsibilities in order to fill the gap of my mother always working to provide.

Although I missed a lot of my childhood, having to grow up fast mentally allowed me as I got older to think quick on my feet, and actually helped me become a better mother to my own children.

I’ve always had the call of entrepreneurship on my heart but also need knew I was called to the mountain of education.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Currently, I am an educator dedicated to shaping the future, and I’m also advancing my education as I pursue an Ed.D. with the aspiration of becoming a campus leader one day.

Growing up, I had a passion for helping others and dreamed of becoming a medical doctor. However, God had other plans for my life. My journey into education wasn’t traditional. I initially majored in pre-med but eventually switched to English to balance the demands of working full-time while attending school. Although it wasn’t the path I envisioned, it was exactly what I needed. After graduating, I began working as a teacher’s assistant, entered an alternative certification program to become a teacher, and earned my master’s degree—all while raising two children alongside my husband.

After eight years in the classroom, my passion for helping other educators succeed has only grown. Teaching is one of the most challenging professions, often requiring teachers to be the only source of peace and stability some students experience.

The road to where I am today hasn’t been easy. Balancing numerous responsibilities while striving to be the best version of myself has been a challenging but rewarding journey.

In addition to my career in education, I’ve recently embraced a new role as the Pastor of UK Dallas. This is uncharted territory, not just for me but for anyone in my family. Despite the unknowns, I am moving forward with faith, fully focused on the assignment God has given me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m not a big sports fanatic, but since moving to the North Dallas area, I’ve discovered some incredible spots I’d love to share with visiting friends. One of my top recommendations would definitely be The Star in Frisco. It’s a fantastic destination with plenty of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly activities. As a big-time foodie, I’m always excited to explore the dining options there.

A few places on my list to try include Ernest B’s BBQ for some authentic Southern barbecue and World Springs in The Colony for a relaxing spa day. To wrap up the perfect day, I’d head over to NorthPark Center for some shopping, all while sipping on a coffee from my new local favorite, 7 Brew.

As a proud Caribbean at heart, I’ve been craving some good Haitian or Jamaican food, and I’m confident I’ll uncover some hidden gems as I continue to settle into the city. Dallas has so much to offer, and I’m looking forward to exploring it all!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to honor and celebrate two incredible women in my life—both of my mothers.

First, to my biological mom, Jacqueline, who sacrificed so much for me and my sisters. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. From working two jobs as a single mother to meet all of our needs, her tireless dedication taught me the true meaning of hard work and resilience. She is the foundation of so much of who I am.

Second, to my spiritual mother, Dr. Cierra. Her guidance has been instrumental in my life, helping me gain wisdom, grow spiritually, and step into the person God created me to be. I am forever grateful for this divine connection and the impact she’s had on my journey.

Lastly, to my husband and best friend of over a decade—my unwavering support system. Together, we’ve built so much over the years, and I wouldn’t be standing where I am today without you. Your love and partnership mean the world to me.

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