Clanton City Councilman Greg DeJarnett spoke to fifth, sixth and seventh graders at Jemison Middle School about overcoming challenges and maintaining goals as part of a Black History program Friday.

“Whatever your demographic is, we all have to overcome challenges,” DeJarnett said. “In order to overcome those challenges, you’re all going to have to be tough.”

DeJarnett told students to embrace who they are and use their individual gifts to be productive citizens.

“Don’t worry about being somebody else,” DeJarnett said. “Be who you are and be proud of that. Be proud of who it is God made you to be.”

DeJarnett explained to students the importance of having mentors, such as teachers, coaches or parents, to help them realize their personal goals.

DeJarnett recognized Myra Davis as one of the teachers he had growing up that helped mold him into the person he is.

“She made me feel loved,” he said. “We need special relationships with teachers and adults that help make that possible.”

DeJarnett asked students to raise their hands if they thought they were talented at something, whether it is singing, writing poetry or making all A’s, and many students raised their hands.

“Each one of you in here are important,” he said to the students. “Don’t you ever forget that. You matter.”