Brandon Wiley had his life changed by a simple question asked by a little girl in 6th grade: “What are you?”

This question about his race and his parents’ differences caused him to feel uncomfortable in his own skin and led to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. However, with the support of his parents, mentors, and mental health professionals, he was able to push through and pursue his education. It was during his last year of graduate school that he had a dream about writing a book called “What Are You? – A Journey to Self-Discovery.”

After much reflection about this dream, he realized he needed to reframe the question that had caused him so much pain and turn it into something empowering. Thus, the idea for OpenedEyes was born. With the support of friends and countless conversations, Brandon turned his book idea into a leadership program.

Brandon’s closest companions Shannon Stewart and Kathleen Washington adopted the idea, taking on roles of executive leadership and together built OpenedEyes to what it is today.