2023 Fellow Focus: Patrick Rodriguez + Georgia Coalition for Higher Education in Prison
Former inmate, higher education advocate, changemaker …2023 Fellow Patrick Rodriguez of Georgia Coalition for Higher Education in Prison shares more about his journey as a social impact entrepreneur.
What life experiences propelled you into the entrepreneurial space and made you decide to be your own boss?
I am formerly incarcerated, so going to prison was one thing. Being supported by my mentor Jay Holder, and having him and others believing in me more than I believed in myself was big. It was the catalyst that pushed me to lead.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
The community of people that have come to support the forward progress of this venture and the fact that something was created and is now making an enormous impact!
What do you wish someone had told you before you started your entrepreneurial journey?
It is going to be hard, but keep going. There’s no way to predict what’s on the other side, but if you never try, then you’ll never know.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
Coming out of prison, I had nothing. I only wanted to continue my education and I stayed “Humble and Hungry” in order to get it done. I was surrounded by a community that supported me in this journey, which led me to where I am today. For them, I am forever grateful.
How do you stay motivated?
I have a natural level of energy that keeps me going and when I go into the prison to visit those that we serve, I am constantly inspired to do more.
Let's talk about your legacy. How do you hope your venture will make the world a better place generations from now?
I hope that [GACHEP] will be the start of a transformation in the way that we approach people who have committed crimes. Education is essential in this world and I believe that if this fact is supported the most, we can create interventions at different points of peoples’ lives and create pathways to success for all.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
I really like Tribe of Mentors by Tim Ferris.
Anything else you want to share about yourself and/or your Camelback Fellowship journey?
Only that I am excited to be taking this step and am looking forward to what is to come!
To stay in the loop about the good trouble Camelback Fellows are getting into - sign up for our newsletter!