Mathew Knowles wasn’t always one of the most powerful men in popular music.

Speaking to high school students attending The EVENT at the University of Houston’s University Center on Thursday, Oct. 28, Knowles – father of pop superstar Beyonce and manager of Destiny’s Child – recounted a life of poverty and a relentless ambition that led him to his current success.

“Tough times don’t last. Tough people do,” he said.

Knowles addressed more than 800 top-performing seniors from Houston area high schools who attended The Event – sponsored by the Black Leadership Network – to learn about the University of Houston, its admission process, financial aid and student life.

Knowles told the audience how he grew up in Gaston, Ala. the son of a truck driver who barely made $30 a week. He encouraged members of the audience to pursue their dreams and never surrender to fears of failure.

Stepping into a cardboard box, Knowles illustrated what he defines as ‘boxed-in’ thinking.

“When you think inside of the box, people tell you what you can and cannot do,” he said. “You don’t have a lot of mobility. You can barely move around. Look outside of the box. There is a lot of space. Don’t limit yourself. Don’t settle for being average.”

Knowles also encouraged the high school attendees to consider UH as their college of choice and to strive for excellence in all of their goals.

“Learn as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to be the very best in whatever you do. If you can do that, then your chances of thinking outside of the box are that much greater.”

The EVENT also featured sessions on Contemporary Issues in Higher Education; Life Skills: Surviving College; Introduction to Greek Life; and an academic fair. Other speakers included James Conyers, director of the UH African American Studies program, and Louis Williams, president of the Black Leadership Network.

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu