Ben Obomanu, Michael Johnson and Jai Miller.

The Selma natives have been making their marks in professional sports for quite sometime, placing Selma on the map. Johnson, however, has been making moves off the field as well.

As a graduate of Dallas County High School, Johnson is no stranger to building up his community.

Whether it’s a bye week for his NFL team or after the NFL regular season, whenever Johnson gets a break, he never fails to travel back to his hometown — to inspire and encourage area youth.

Through his MJ93 Fund to raise money for his youth summer football camp to numerous speaking engagements to area elementary schools, Johnson demonstrates the importance of giving back to your community, believing in your own potential and following your dreams.

With every story I’ve written or event I’ve attended concerning Johnson, it’s been my perception that he is consistent and authentic.

It’s refreshing to know he hasn’t allowed stardom to get to his head. His humility is encouraging, his passion — inspiring. Johnson is living proof to the adage that ‘if you put your mind to something, it will happen.’

Johnson’s message of “see it first,” encourages us to envision what we want out of life and go after it.

Remain committed, dedicated and passionate no matter what. Times may get hard, you may feel like giving up and naysayers will often discourage you, because they are jealous of your drive, but you must push past the negativity and grab hold to the positive.

Don’t forget about ‘hard work’ — it’s absolutely imperative to success.

I once heard that a truly “intelligent” person is someone who after much accomplishments, will still continue to strive for more.

I wish to be that person.

Johnson is the epitome of someone who has not forgotten about his or her hometown and continues to strive for more. He consistently praises “Selma” in front of others and lets students here know that they can make it too.