Liz Murray Motivational speaker Date of Birth: 23.09.1980 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Trauma
2. Surviving Homelessness and the Loss of Her Mother
3. Turning Point: Humanities Preparatory Academy
4. Discovering Education and Opportunity
5. Inspiration at Harvard University
6. Graduating from Harvard
7. Motivational Speaking

Early Life and Trauma

Elizabeth "Liz" Murray was born in 1980 in the Bronx, New York. Her parents were drug addicts who neglected her and her older sister. Liz witnessed her parents using drugs at a young age, leading to a childhood filled with trauma and instability.

Surviving Homelessness and the Loss of Her Mother

As a teenager, Liz became homeless with her drug-addicted mother. They lived on the streets, relying on friends and strangers for shelter. In 1996, Liz's mother died from AIDS, leaving her alone and heartbroken.

Turning Point: Humanities Preparatory Academy

After her mother's death, Liz was taken into foster care. She continued struggling, skipping school and running with a street gang. However, her life changed when she learned about Humanities Preparatory Academy, a school for troubled teens.

Discovering Education and Opportunity

Liz enrolled in Humanities Preparatory Academy and found solace in education. With the support of her teachers, she excelled academically, participating in the school's theater program and student government. Her grades soared, and she completed a four-year high school program in two years.

Inspiration at Harvard University

When it came time to consider college, Liz visited Harvard University with her mentor, Perry Weiner. The sight of students studying on the lawn filled her with a sense of longing. Weiner encouraged her, saying, "Nothing is impossible... Have you ever thought about Harvard?"

Graduating from Harvard

Liz applied for a New York Times scholarship and was accepted to Harvard University. She graduated with honors in 2009. During her undergraduate years, she took a break to care for her father, who had contracted AIDS and died at the age of 64.

Motivational Speaking

Today, Liz Murray is an award-winning motivational speaker. She shares her story of overcoming adversity and living a fulfilling life. Through her lectures and seminars, she inspires others to make positive choices, never give up, and create a better future.