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My name is Vander Josiah Hargrove. I am 29 years old and from St. Louis, Missouri. I grew up in a broken home and was raised by my grandparents, who did the best they could with what they had.

At 19, my life took a difficult turn. I was arrested in what I know was a case of self-defense, but the state of Missouri saw it differently. I was charged with two counts of armed criminal action and first-degree assault. At the time, I was angry — angry at the state, angry at myself for the choices that led me into that situation. When I first came inside, I carried that anger like a shield, but over time, I realized it was only holding me back.

Through years of trial, error, and deep reflection, I made the choice to leave my old ways behind. I committed myself to growth and to serving others. Today, I am proud of who I have become:

• I serve as the Lead Peer Support Specialist at Ozark Correctional Center, working with individuals struggling with behavioral issues and addiction. For many, I am their last chance before being removed from the program. I mentor, guide, and teach coping mechanisms to help them reclaim their lives.

• I am certified by the State of Missouri as an Anger Management Facilitator and in Mediation Skills, equipping me to teach conflict resolution and help others navigate disputes in healthier ways.

• I am currently pursuing college courses in Business Marketing with a minor in Psychology.

• I am writing my autobiography, sharing my life story, trials, and triumphs so others can learn from my journey.

• I coach yoga and fitness, helping others strengthen both body and mind.

• I am bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish, and use language as another way to connect, teach, and support those around me.                                                          

Most importantly, I am the proud father of a 12-year-old daughter, Anari Marie, who is my pride and joy. She is the reason I keep pushing forward, the anchor of my heart, and the light of my life.

What once began as anger and pain has turned into a calling: to mentor, to heal, and to guide others through their own battles. My story is not one of defeat, but of transformation.