Meet Sylvester Long | Motivational Speaker, Author, & Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sylvester Long and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sylvester, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose to pursue my passion the creative arts because I wanted to be able to use my voice and talents to impact my community. As a motivational speaker, I use my past experiences and my faith in God as a foundation to encourage, motivate, and let others know that the pain we experience in life is only temporary, but it is connected to the purpose that is destined, defined, and destined for our lives. That is also why I wrote my new book titled “Out of Pain, Into Purpose” (which is also the name of my speaking business). As a drummer, I love playing music. I’ve played drums since 2003. It was honestly my first love. It became a huge part of my life. I was even able to be a volunteer drum instructor from 2012-2014 for my old high school drumline. Being able to show them the meaning and importance of musicianship. Even to this day, I learn from other drummers and musicians because no matter how long I’ve been playing, I can always learn new techniques and skills.

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.
The name of my speaking business is called “Out of Pain, Into Purpose”. The ides behind this business is to help others turn their pain into their purpose. This journey was a long and arduous one. My journey of speaking started one year after my maternal grandfather passed away. I wanted to continue his legacy in my own way. If it wasn’t for God on my side, I honestly would not be where I am. Throughout my life, I have had to learn that everything in my life had to happen in this exact order for me to be here, Despite the times of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, lack of self-confidence, and other things I’ve experienced, I am still here to this day for a purpose. I want everyone to know that your story is unique. You never know who needs to hear your testimony. Don’t be ashamed of your story. You are purposed in this life. You weren’t born on accident; you were born on purpose!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In my city of Columbus, I would take them first to the Riverwalk because it is so peaceful out there. You can take a nice walk or run or even bike ride down here and enjoy the view. We would also hang out downtown on Broadway where there are so many bars and restaurants to choose from. We can even visit the Columbus Museum, the Infantry Museum, or even the Coca-Cola Space Science Center.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have a few people and groups I’d love to dedicate this to: First and foremost, I dedicate this to God because without Him, I would not be where I am today. I also dedicate this to my family for always loving me and supporting me unconditionally. To my friends from school, Clubhouse, etc. who have been such an incredible support system for me. To my fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity for teaching me the ideals of Leadership, Friendship, and Service. To my brothers of the Collegiate 100/100 Black Men of America for teaching me and helping me embody the meaning of “Real Men Giving Real Time”. To my fellow Thriving 31 Ambassadors of the Akili Society for the constant love, support, and amazing vibes and opportunities to serve my community.

Website: https://www.amazon.com/Pain-Into-Purpose-Sylvester-Long-ebook/dp/B08RCTY7PS

Instagram: https://instagram.com/outofpainintopurpose?igshid=1gw9drkj55g6z

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvester-long-jr-04b8997b/

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/purposedpain

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outofpainintopurpose/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC0VM8jVKDFwV1Z30GCi4frg