Donnell Wright went from jailed drug addict to motivational speaker [Video]

MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Black leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference in politics, education, business, the arts or another area of interest.

Profiles of these leaders will be published leading up to the Juneteenth holiday on June 19. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.

Donnell R. Wright

Age: 59

Community: Springfield

His story: As a child growing up in Springfield, Donnell R. Wright said he was exposed to the trauma of domestic violence, alcoholism and drug addiction. He started using drugs as a kid, experimenting with codeine — the active ingredient in cough syrup.

“My addiction grew as did the violence surrounding and involving me as I was nearly killed several times in this city!” he told MassLive.

Wright said he then graduated …