Angie Martinez Encourages The Class Of 2020 To 'Keep Moving Forward'

Angie Martinez didn't become the "The Voice of New York" without overcoming adversity.

As part of the "Commencement: Speeches for the Class of 2020" podcast, the Power 105.1 radio host issued an encouraging commencement speech for graduating students across the country.

Given these unprecedented and uncertain times, Angie spoke of how her greatest pitfalls and unique life experiences became her biggest triumphs.

"No matter what, there will be times that you will be presented with circumstances that are unexpected or uncertain. And it's those moments that will shape your future," she shared. "The class of 2020 has a keen understanding more than any other graduating class, that things will not always happen the way we plan them. And don't get me wrong, it is important to plan. Yes, plan. Please prepare, work hard, arm yourself with the tools that you're going to need to reach your goals. But what is equally important is what you do when things don't go as planned."

Angie went on to discuss how unique life experiences prepare you "for what you can contribute to the world."

"Our truths and our experiences are our greatest gift. It's how we learn, grow, and inspire others," she said. "So use this moment to connect to your truth, listen to that little voice in your head that knows exactly what you've been put on this earth to do and don't let anything distract you from that."

"Things are going to be challenging and unexpected, but if you show up armed with resilience and self-belief, you can really do anything that you set your mind to," Angie continued. "At the end of the day, no one can live your life for you or fight your battles for you. It is up to you and you already have everything you need."

The revered radio personality concluded her commencement speech with a message of hope, taking a page from the late Nipsey Hussle, saying, "Where you are from, who you are, and what you have been through have brought you to this moment of your graduation and it will take you through this global crisis and it will serve you during every obstacle that arises along the path of your life. [...] 'The marathon continues.' So run your own race. Don't waste your time worrying about what everyone else is doing. Set your own pace, create your own path, and keep moving forward."

Congratulations to the Class of 2020! iHeartRadio’s "Commencement: Speeches for the Class of 2020” podcast celebrates this year’s graduating students as they take their next steps into the world. For more inspiring speeches from celebrities, athletes, business leaders and more, listen to the podcast on iHeartRadio.

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