Dolly Parton turned 79 on January 19, 2025. Apart from the fact that I have followed her humanitarian work for close to two decades, I came across a quote from her while setting out to do our work in the field of Family Strengthening, Parenting, and Child Safeguarding and Protection Advocacy. At the time, I was feeling a profound sense of inadequacy, overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges families and our precious children face in Africa, and the uncharted path we were about to embark on. The quote read:

“If you want to change the world, you have to roll up your sleeves and go out there and work. We never can do enough but we can do something.”

This simple yet profound statement encouraged and energized my perspective. It reminded me that while the challenges may be vast, meaningful change begins with action—no matter how small. The quote enlarged my worldview concerning the work ahead and gave me the clarity and courage to press forward. It was so inspiring that it is now one of the quotes hosted on the Change Charges section of the Taiwo Akinlami Academy website, acknowledged as a vital source of inspiration.

This quote perfectly reflects Dolly’s heart: a disruptor, a trailblazer, and a compassionate visionary who shows us that while we may not be able to do everything, we can always do something—and that “something” can change lives.

Dolly’s story is as remarkable as the legacy she continues to build. Born into a family of 12 children in the mountains of Tennessee, she learned early on the value of hard work, faith, and family. Despite humble beginnings, her dreams and determination propelled her to become not just a music icon but also a champion for children and families around the world.

Her Imagination Library stands as one of her most impactful contributions. Established in 1995 to honor her father, who never learned to read, the program began in Sevier County, Tennessee, and has since grown into a global initiative. By mailing free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, Dolly has empowered millions of young minds with the gift of literacy. It is a disruptor’s solution—turning barriers into bridges for children, families, and communities.

Dolly’s commitment to family extends beyond her work. Her nearly six-decade marriage to Carl Dean is a testament to enduring love, partnership, and balance. Despite her global fame, she has fiercely guarded the sanctity of her private life, demonstrating that the greatest successes are often rooted in the simplest of treasures: love and loyalty.

Though Dolly does not have biological children, she has poured herself into nurturing and uplifting the next generation. Through her music, philanthropy, and advocacy, she has shown us that parenting and family transcend biology—they are about intentionality, love, and a commitment to building futures.

As part of our work in Family Strengthening, Parenting, and Child Safeguarding and Protection, we often reflect on Dolly’s example as a disruptor—not one who disrupts for the sake of chaos, but one who challenges the status quo to create meaningful change. Her life is a masterclass for parents and families, teaching us how to raise disruptors who are bold enough to dream, compassionate enough to serve, and determined enough to transform the world around them.

A scripture that resonates deeply with Dolly’s life and work is Proverbs 22:6 (NIV): “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Dolly’s work aligns with this timeless wisdom, as her efforts to nurture children through literacy and creativity lay a foundation that will guide them for a lifetime.

As we celebrate Dolly Parton’s birthday, we honor a woman whose work and words have touched countless lives, including mine. Her legacy reminds us that no matter how small our contributions may seem, they can ripple out to create a wave of change.

Thank to Dolly Parton you for inspiring us to roll up our sleeves, dare greatly, and embrace the power of doing “something.”

Do have an INSPIRED week ahead with the family.