Today we’d like to introduce you to Sabrina Jackson-Cunningham.
Hi Sabrina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started out as a teen mom at just 16 years old, but I was determined not to become a statistic. I graduated from Richland Northeast High School—on time, might I add—and made a promise to myself that my son, who’s now 14, would have a great life and never go without.
As a teen parent, I was blessed with an incredible support system—his dad, who’s now my husband, our families, and our church community. After high school, I worked two jobs before heading to Parris Island, South Carolina, to begin Marine Corps boot camp. It took me a full year to get physically fit enough to pass the Initial Strength Test, but I was determined. Boot camp was both the best and worst experience of my life, and honestly, if I had the chance to do it again, I would.
After serving several years in the Marine Corps, I was involved in a car accident that led to my medical retirement. Transitioning back to civilian life wasn’t easy, but I stayed focused. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management, purchased my first home at age 26, and went on to earn my Master’s in Healthcare Administration. That experience of buying my first home actually inspired my real estate career.
What I love most about real estate is being able to help other teen moms I went to high school with purchase their first homes, build generational wealth, and prove that being a “teen parent” doesn’t define your future.
Alongside real estate, I work with my husband in his catering business. I’m also a doctoral student and a mentor with YoungLives, where I help young moms and their babies grow in faith and navigate parenthood. I’ll be completing my doctoral program next spring, marking the end of eight straight years of college—a journey I’m incredibly proud of.
Today, I’m a mom of three, a Marine Corps veteran, a real estate agent, a mentor, and a pastor’s wife at At The Well Church. I just turned 30, and I’m truly in awe of how God has blessed and graced me to lead, serve, and wear many hats. I’d never thought I would be where I am today, and I am truly grateful.
This is just a snippet of my story, but my hope is that it encourages others to keep going—no matter how high the odds are stacked against you. Whether your journey is smooth or rocky, stay focused and stay in the fight.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth? I’d be lying if I said this journey was or is easy. I’ve had some extreme difficulites and struggles along the way. One struggle I will note is the obvious, leaving my child behind to start a military career and not being able to speak or see him during 13 weeks of bootcamp and then 2 months of MCT (Marine Combat Training). I remember being the only recruit in my series, which was approximately 60+ females, with a child. No one in my platoon could relate to moments I was down and days that I wanted to quit to go back home. Looking back, that was a hard time, but I’m so glad I kept going.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I do alot from credit repair to catering, and selling real estate. But I would highlight that I am a South Carolina REALTOR® specializing in the Columbia market. I am most proud of helping young women and men become homeowners. What sets me apart from others is my authentic combination of resilience, purpose, and service. I love everything that I do & I enjoy helping others.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about my city:
I love the peaceful, relaxing, and slow-paced atmosphere of the South. It gives a sense of calm and comfort that makes it easy to enjoy life and focus on what truly matters.
What I like least about my city:
I wish there were more dining options, especially high-end restaurants and shopping areas. Sometimes it feels like we have to travel outside the city for more variety and upscale experiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sabrinajcunningham.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sabrina.jacksoncunningham
