NAME?
Sadaf Zendehdel Martin
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Senior Data Scientist at Knowli Data Science
HOMETOWN?
Galveston, Texas
TELL US YOUR TALLAHASSEE STORY:
I moved to Tallahassee from Texas for grad school, intending to work as a Demographer for the Census Bureau. I earned my master’s degree in 2013, right in the middle of a federal hiring freeze, which led to the cancellation of my scheduled federal interviews. Instead of leaving, I stayed in Tallahassee, where my internship with the State Department of Health turned into a full-time role.
I spent nearly a decade working for the state, with my favorite role being my time at the Department of Children and Families for almost five years. In 2020, I transitioned to the private sector and now work for Knowli Data Science, a local, women-owned data science firm. I’m grateful to be part of a bright and supportive team.
Tallahassee is where I’ve truly put down roots. I met my husband shortly prior to the pandemic, and we’ve built our life here with our son and two pups.
Are you involved in any organization other than Access?
I am part of the committee for NAT20: Nerds Around Tallahassee. We organize networking events around town every other month. The group was founded by Susannah White and Lester Hutt with the goal of creating a welcoming space for “nerds” to connect, share ideas, and build community across different industries in Tallahassee.
What is your favorite thing about your career?
The people and the work. At Knowli Data Science, we have an amazing team—it’s a truly special group. My colleagues are always willing to support one another, dropping what they’re doing to help with high-priority projects. The work itself is also rewarding, especially when surrounded by such a collaborative and talented team.
What would you say to someone considering a move to Tallahassee?
Make the move! Tallahassee has been an incredible place to build a career, make great friends, and start a family. I’m so grateful for the journey that led me to put down roots here.
SADAF’S LOCAL FAVORITES:
Nature/Outdoor space? Wacissa (Specifically Big Blue)
Place to eat? Backwoods Crossing
Annual event or festival? Tallahassee Marathon and the Tallahassee Beer Festival
Place to people watch? Cascades Park
THE INSIDE SCOOP ON SADAF:
Her “secret” talent/skill: I can hula hoop for hours on end. I taught myself how to hula hoop in the opposite direction during the pandemic!
Currently binge-watching? American Primeval
The theme song to her life: Knuck If You Buck by Crime Mob
Who inspires her? My husband. He’s thoughtful, steady, and leads with kindness–both as a manager and employee. Even during stressful times, he remains supportive and grounded, which I really admire.