Occupation:
Marketing & Business Development Associate
Organization:
Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. CPAs
Hometown:
Tallahassee, Florida
Tell us a little about your Tallahassee Story. What brought you to Tallahassee?
Tallahassee has and will always be my home, no matter where I go! My parents both came to Tallahassee to attend one of the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the world, Florida A&M University (FAMU). It was because of this that they both settled here at that time and started their family with me and my older sister. We both were raised here and graduated from FAMU as Third-Generation Rattlers.
Tell us more about how you’re involved in Tallahassee.
My involvement in Tallahassee includes New Leaders Council of Tallahassee, TCC Take Stock in Children, Knight Creative Communities Institute of Tallahassee (KCCI), Florida Politics Rising Stars 30 Under 30 Honoree, The Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, The Florida State University Black Alumni Association, and the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce- Access Tallahassee.
What is your favorite thing about Tallahassee?
I enjoy that Tallahassee is a mid-size city. In a way, we are large enough to have an international airport for travel and trade, but also, we are small enough to make others feel welcome when they first come or return home for events.
What is your dream for Tallahassee?
My dream for Tallahassee is that everyone regardless of their zip codes can receive opportunities to advance and achieve all that they desire. As a resident growing up within the Tallahassee-East area, I felt that there was limitlessness to my opportunities for growth. It is my hope that residents who live in other parts such as the Frenchtown and Southwest Tallahassee area, receive greater access to opportunities to advance in leisure, education, and economic development.
I envision Tallahassee to not only be an area known for our world-renowned universities and college, but also a place people consider raising their families, starting their businesses or even deciding to relocate to.
Above all, I dream of Tallahassee being a city that is unique compared to other cities within our state. Regardless of our size, we are a city where everyone should feel welcomed, seen, and grow.
How are young professionals like yourself shaping Tallahassee?
Young professionals in Tallahassee are finding ways to enhance the culture and lure of this city, while remaining true to its authenticity. We intend to take care of those things that people have always valued about Tallahassee, such as our environment, and finding ways to improve and maintain it.
What would you say to someone considering a move to Tallahassee?
We are not South Florida, nor our we Central Florida. We are also not Georgia. We are a collaboration between all these areas and other places in between. If there is something that you would like to see within our city, create it. Understand that Tallahassee is an area not only for collegiates, but also seasoned citizens, families, and even immigrants seeking greater opportunities. Tallahassee is a city that will create space for you.
What is your Tallahassee favorite?
Place to eat
For desserts: TC Bakery, Gurlie’s Lemonade and Sweets, and JMo’s Sneauxballs. For meals: Smoothie Time, Table 23, and G&G Caribbean American Restaurant.
Place to be outside
Cascades Park
Place to hang out
Bar 1903
Place to capture the perfect Instagram pic
Chain of Parks, on Gaines Street, and of course, on Calhoun Street.
Place to people watch
Charlie Park and on Adams Street
Way to give back
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend, The Alzheimer’s Association, Project Annie Inc., and supporting the Florida State Primitive Baptist Convention Inc.
Event
FAMU Homecoming, FAMU Harambee Festival, FSU Black Alumni Brunch, and Florida Legislative Session
How do you spend your free time?
I spend my free time visiting family and friends.
Something most people don’t know about you?
I’m left-handed and have studied abroad in Cuba.
Favorite quote?
“When my faith is greater than my fear, then I know that I am ready!” – Tiffany Greene
Favorite app?
Zelle
Best way to start the day?
Prayer and Podcasts
Ideal vacation?
International Travel
What kind of music do you listen to?
R&B, Hip Hop, Rap, Gospel, and Jazz
Favorite movie?
Black Panther
Biggest pet peeve?
Nose Picking in Public
Favorite show?
Abbott Elementary
Best way to spend a Saturday?
Not doing anything that needed planning.
