By Maddie Osgood

A legacy is what Demetrius Harmon hopes to create during his lifetime. 

Harmon, a social media influencer, entrepreneur, model and motivational speaker, delivered a personal lecture on mental health on Feb. 27 at the University of Maryland.

Harmon has gained a large social media following from skits he has posted on Twitter and Vine. He has over one million followers on Twitter and Instagram where he continues to post content including YouTube.

“I originally heard about him on Twitter through that ‘Adam and Eve’ video that he posted,”  senior communications major Anna Salomon said. “Then I followed him because he kept posting those funny videos.”

Harmon now uses his platform in order to promote mental health awareness. His “You Matter” clothing brand was created from his own personal struggle with mental illness. The idea for the mantra “You Matter” came from a sticky note Harmon had written when dealing with suicidal urges. His clothing brand embodies a representation of support for others struggling with their own problems.  

“I like what he does in regards to bringing awareness to mental health,” said senior architecture major Naa Koshie Bannerman. 

Dressed from head to toe in University of Maryland merchandise, Harmon carried a plush Testudo during his entire lecture. 

Legacy was the topic of discussion during Harmon’s lecture. He had recently written this lecture in order to replace a previous one, which talked about achieving personal goals. He felt it wasn’t adequate for how he was feeling now. 

“As of lately I’ve been getting out of a bad headspace,” Harmon said. “The headspace I was in before it just felt like that lecture didn’t resonate with me.”

Harmon’s lecture was accompanied by a slideshow of old family photos and text messages from family members. He introduced each family member and contemplated the idea of what his family name meant to him. He explained that death had plagued his family tree, and his experience with death led him to think about the legacy he wishes to leave.

“I think about death a lot,” Harmon said. “Life is unexpected.”

Harmon spoke openly about his experience with family abuse during his childhood. His relationship with his family members, specifically his father, suffered throughout his life after instances of physical abuse.

“Life at home became a warzone,” said Harmon.

Throughout his adult life, Harmon has made it his goal to break the cycle of abuse. Harmon said it is important to lead with love. He has mended his relationship with his father which led him to find peace within himself. He advocated in his speech for others to do things that would help them achieve a sense of peace. 

Harmon created a safe space for discussion. He answered student’s questions and offered advice for those struggling. His positive attitude and humor put smiles on the faces of the audience. 

“So what really matters?”  Harmon inquired of the audience. “I can tell you, you matter.”

Featured photo: Demetrius Harmon forms his hands into the shape of a heart in front of the audience. Photo by Maddie Osgood.