In Calinda Cantu’s planner, blocks of time outline her classes, family commitments, accounting job, and photography endeavors, painting a picture of her bustling life. But six years ago, her planner held a vastly different narrative.
At that time, Cantu was trapped in an abusive relationship, and within those planner pages, she meticulously crafted a plan to reclaim her life.
“It wasn’t just one thing; it was a culmination,” Cantu reflects on the decision to leave with her two children. “I outlined my plan—this was my path.”
“Even when it felt impossible—no, this was the course I’d chosen, and I was determined,” she adds.
Recently awarded the Petrina Gay-Jenkins Memorial Scholarship, named after a fervent domestic violence advocate in Shreveport who passed away in 2022, Cantu was deeply moved.
“Learning about Petrina and her impact on this community was profound,” Cantu shares. “She advocated tirelessly for all facets of domestic violence—physical, mental, emotional. She fought for legislation while supporting those in need.”
Education stood at the core of Cantu’s plan. She earned degrees from Delgado Community College and LSU-Alexandria before pursuing her MBA with a focus on Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise at LSUS.
“Sometimes it meant taking just one class per semester, but I persisted, step by step,” Cantu recounts. “I aimed for a good job because, as a mother, providing for my family was crucial.”
“I was determined to continue self-improvement despite it all—it demanded sheer perseverance,” she adds.
Utilizing her education, Cantu secured an accounting position at MECO, a Northshore water treatment company. Reflecting on her journey, Cantu acknowledges the darker times.
“Reflecting while writing the scholarship essay, I always believed this wouldn’t happen to me,” Cantu admits. “I was in a very tough place and suffered immensely.”
“Yet, when I focused on the future for my family and myself, things shifted. It’s easy to be consumed by victimhood, but I sought change,” she emphasizes.
Beyond education, Cantu highlights the support received from community groups and therapy.
“Therapy and positive community involvement, like church, became crucial,” Cantu notes. “It’s been a gradual, day-by-day process.”
On track to graduate with her MBA in December, Cantu aims to expand her photography and digital creator business (Images by Calinda) while teaching business classes at a community college.
Her biggest supporters? Her 21-year-old daughter and 14-year-old son.
“They’re inspired by this journey, and seeing them proud motivates me,” Cantu shares. “Encountering young girls in similar situations, I offer encouragement, boosting their self-esteem.”
“My life’s mantra is ‘Darkness does not last.’ Even in tough times, there’s a future. If you told me five years ago where I’d be today, I’d have thought it impossible.”