by Maria Chaves
Being only 16 years old, Destiny Danay Smith conveys a sincere pop culture ideology and philosophy that can only be summed up in one phrase: “Don’t worry, be happy.”
Always one to flash a smile, the warmth that Smith radiates to others is not something taught in a classroom but is learned from years of self-reliance.
Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Smith has lived in four houses and has been able to call them all her home.
“We usually got sick of the places that we lived in, but moving was always comfortable since I was with the people I cannot live without,” Smith said.
A stable upbringing has pushed her to become a dedicated student at Capital Hill High School and a committed player on her basketball team. Basketball has shaped her moral compass, teaching her valuable lessons in leadership, discipline and responsibility.
She cited her aunt Tiffany as a big inspiration. One important piece of advice from her aunt: “Keep trying and it will all get better.” At the rate Smith is going, she feels sure she will amount to greatness.
Smith considers OIDJ a wonderful opportunity and a blessing. Going into her sophomore year, Smith is undecided on a career choice, but she likes the idea of becoming a homicide detective. She hopes to graduate valedictorian and exceed preconceived expectations of her.
“I want to be the underdog,” Smith said. “People don’t tell me, but the way they look at me tells me that they think I won’t amount to anything, and I just want to prove them wrong.”
