Kamarlo Spooner, also known as Marlo Da Motivator, is a speaker, six-time published author, entrepreneur, and mentor who turned adversity into purpose. After overcoming childhood trauma, addiction in the home, incarceration, and life in the streets, he went on to become a college graduate, is currently finishing his master’s degree, and has grown into a respected voice for change within the community, including leading the grassroots effort that lead to Juneteenth becoming a paid countywide holiday in Alameda County . Using his story and experiences Marlo encourages others to break cycles, embrace accountability, and understand that their past does not have to define their future.