Meet Quintin E. Lawrence | Small Business Owner & Senior Risk Analyst

We had the good fortune of connecting with Quintin E. Lawrence and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Quintin E., how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Before our business was established and when I was a Soldier, life’s balance was a bit easier. Now, since being diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) 18 months ago, life’s balance has become a bit challenging. There is a new normal that surrounds me and my family. I am retired from the Army, work full time at Bank of Hawaii, manage AprilAmeliaPhotography, and attend school part-time. I also find time to spend quality time with my family, exercise, and care for our pets. I feel maintaining a consistent schedule helps provide adequate time to each aspect of my life. Proper rest, diet, and exercise allow me to proficiently accomplish daily activities. I use my diagnosis to inspire my children and others to face any adversity they may encounter and never give up. I believe that my lord and savior has a purpose for my life and that’s the reason why I keep going!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I served in the Army for 23 1/2 years and retired February 2023. During my time as a Soldier, I traveled all over the world to include, but not limited to, South Korea, Japan, Europe, Africa, and Guam. I am most proud of serving my country honorably and providing future opportunities for my family. Over my two decade Army career, I truly appreciated the opportunity and platform to inspire folks to seek and obtain education, invest in retirement/financial plans, maintain physical and mental health, and seek spiritual guidance. As an IT professional, specifically Cybersecurity, this journey wasn’t easy. I obtained 9 certifications, including ISC2’s CISSP and ISACA’s CISM, and a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Technology. With faith, determination, family support and encouragement, I was able to achieve desired IT goals to complete a successful Army career. Currently, I work full time at Bank of Hawaii and I’m the Business Manager and FAA 107 certified drone pilot for AprilAmeliaPhotography. Our business model focuses on business integrity, customer experience, efficient services, and timeless memories. We love God, care about people, and want to provide the best photography services. As a certified drone pilot with Parkinson’s, there can be some challenges with flying, but I fully embrace the challenge and motivate myself to keep going safely!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In Hawaii, every place is favorite spot because of its holistic aesthetic. During this trip, there would be a balance of hiking, cultural enjoyment, and dining. For hiking, Koko Crater and a pillbox hike would be amongst the top of the list for physical activity and the breathtaking view. For views, Makapu’u lookout overlooks the Seabird Sanctuary. The botanical gardens provide lush greenery and interesting history about the tropical plants. Let’s not forget the beaches on the Northshore that provide great surfing such as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. For cultural experience, Polynesian Cultural Center, Dole Plantation, Kualoa Ranch, and Chief’s Luau provide insight and enjoyment into Hawaii’s diverse culture. To conclude with dining, we would explore a variety of local restaurants unique to Hawaii.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to thank my lord and savior Jesus Christ for his grace and mercy. I also want to thank my Mom, Wife, and late Grandmom for being great women in my life as well as my biggest supporters. Huge shoutout to my kids for being great kids, keeping me young, and encouraging me to be the best version of myself. Lastly, a big thank you to everyone who supported me during my Army career and our current Photography business.

Website: https://www.aprilameliaphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilameliaphoto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AprilAmeliaPhotography

Image Credits
aprilameliaphotography; coradorables