My Story

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RaShad Bristo’s childhood dream was to become a police officer. His drive and determination led him to pursue that dream after graduating from Grambling State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Soon afterward, RaShad was hired and deputized by the DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office and sent to the police academy. However, after enduring weeks of rigorous training, he was denied certification to become a Peace Officer just days before graduation.

 

Opposition and discrimination met RaShad head-on. Having one arm had suddenly become a crime in itself. Emotionally wounded and with a dream nearly shattered, RaShad recalled his grandfather’s words: "Son, your disability does not define you; your determination does." With unwavering faith and resilience, RaShad became a certified Peace Officer.

 

With 16 years of law enforcement experience, RaShad became the first person in Louisiana, and the first in the country with one arm, to successfully graduate from a police academy. He served in various law enforcement roles, including deputy sheriff, D.A.R.E. officer, juvenile probation officer, and correctional officer.

 

Following his retirement from law enforcement in 2012, RaShad was awarded the Ken Vince Memorial Award by the Governor’s Outstanding Leadership on Disabilities (GOLD) awards in 2016 for his ongoing contributions to those with disabilities across Louisiana.

 

Transitioning from law enforcement, RaShad leveraged his skills in corporate America, amassing 12 years of marketing experience as a senior marketing and public relations professional for Elevance Health, a Fortune 500 company. In this role, he has received recognition for increasing and retaining membership, networking, and expanding the footprint of Elevance Health.

 

RaShad Bristo’s journey from overcoming personal challenges to excelling in diverse professional roles showcases his unique ability to inspire and motivate others. He is an ideal candidate for speaking engagements that seek to inspire resilience, leadership, and excellence.

 

A resident of Mansfield, Louisiana, RaShad's love of God, spending time with family, and ranching keeps him grounded and focused on fulfilling his purpose. Growing up in a humble community, service has always been a priority in his life, fueling his motivational speaking, his weekly talk show on KHAM Radio, and propelling him to become a published author with his memoir, "Bitter or Better: Doing More With Less."

 

“Life's experiences will make a person one of two ways - 'BITTER or BETTER.' It is your choice: 'Bitter' because of past experiences and setbacks or 'Better' recognizing that past experiences were not really stumbling blocks, but stepping stones…” - Bitter or Better: Doing More With Less.