Name:
Reenee Williams
Occupation:
Rapid Response Coordinator
Organization:
CareerSource Capital Region
Hometown:
Daytona Beach, FL
Tell us a little about your Tallahassee Story. What brought you to Tallahassee?
My Tallahassee story is one of discovery and commitment. It began when I set foot in Tallahassee as a wide-eyed junior in high school attending Florida’s Girls State at Florida State University. That one-week experience ignited a spark within me, and I instantly knew that this vibrant city would become my home. After my IB high school graduation, I eagerly embarked on my journey at FSU, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that awaited me. Tallahassee quickly became more than just a place to study; it became the epicenter of my passions and dreams. While studying at FSU, I found myself deeply immersed in the music industry, where Tallahassee served as my creative hub. It was here that I cultivated my skills, nurtured my artistic spirit, and connected with like-minded individuals who shared my love for music, community, and success.
My journey in Tallahassee is an ongoing pursuit of growth, learning, and service. I am constantly inspired by the city’s resilience, its tenacious spirit, and the remarkable individuals who call it home. Tallahassee is more than just a place on the map; it is a tapestry of dreams, aspirations, and endless possibilities. It is here, in this city, where I continue to shape my story, making a positive impact and striving to create a better future for all using Partner Leverage for Ultimate Growth aka P.L.U.G.
Tell us more about how you’re involved in Tallahassee.
I’m currently a Greater Tallahassee Chamber Ambassador, Secretary for TalTech Alliance, United Way Reading Pal, BEACON Volunteer, Foundation for Leon County Schools Board Member, Small Business Development Center(SBDC) Ambassador and Community Committee Member for the Tallahassee-Leon County Commission On The Status Of Women and Girls.
What is your favorite thing about Tallahassee?
One of my favorite things about Tallahassee is there’s always something to do, you just have to look for it or ask.
What is your dream for Tallahassee?
One dream I have for Tallahassee is rooted in preserving the very essence that makes Tallahassee special. As our city continues to progress and grow and flourish with innovative ideas and opportunities, ensuring the preservation of our natural areas and majestic trees is big for me. Let us remember that our animals and the extensive ecosystem they inhabit also require spaces to thrive, so we must embrace a future where sustainable development harmoniously coexists with our environment. (Developers remember our animals and extensive ecosystem need places to live too)
The other dream I have for Tallahassee is to create a community where everyone has equal opportunities and access to nutritious food. I envision a city where the existence of a food desert is merely a memory of the past. I dream of a Tallahassee where every individual, regardless of their background or zip code, can easily find affordable and healthy food options within their own neighborhood because we as a community were able to tackle the underlying systemic inequalities that perpetuate such disparities.
How are young professionals like yourself shaping Tallahassee?
As young professionals, we possess an extraordinary power in shaping the future of Tallahassee. Our innovative thinking, creativity, and relentless determination are the driving force behind positive change throughout our city. We actively engage in various industries, startups, and community initiatives. We also recognize the importance of community involvement, giving back, and the power of collaboration to empower one another and not just focus on individual success. We see possibilities where others see limitations. We are not merely shaping Tallahassee; we are redefining the essence of what it means to live, work, and thrive in Tallahassee. We embrace our ideas, our passion, and our unwavering beliefs with the hopes of inspiring others to believe in their own potential greatness in order to fuel Tallahassee for generations to come.
What would you say to someone considering a move to Tallahassee?
If you’re considering a move to Tallahassee, you’re in for a treat. This city offers an extraordinary blend of work and life opportunities, natural beauty, and a warm community. Tallahassee’s central location allows easy access to major cities while still maintaining its unique charm and hometown feel. From thriving arts and culture scenes to endless outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone; you just have to look or ask for it. Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by all that Tallahassee has to offer; I know I was and still am.
What is your Tallahassee favorite?
- Place to eat: Sadly Nefatari’s and Cypress both closed so next on the list would be Kool Beanz, Backwoods Crossing, The Huntsman and Crabs On The Run.
- Place to be outside: Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenway
- Place to hang out: BJs or District 850 (Each has 1 bartender that knows how to successfully make my signature drink)
- Place to capture the perfect Instagram pic: Doak Campbell Stadium Champions Club overlooking the football field (One of my favorite places during football season especially seeing the field at 6:30am covered in fog as I’m prepping for my game day bartending shift.)
- Place to people watch: Zoom calls and restaurants
- Way to give back: Volunteering with youth organizations, United Way Reading Pals, SHE Academy, Girls2DIVAS, Ladies Learning to Lead, and STEM4Girls
- Event : Sundown Concert Series at Cascades Park which are free concerts with some great artist put on by The Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority and Tallahassee Beer Festival which is an amazing fundraising event benefiting the United Partners for Human Services and various local charities.
How do you spend your free time?
Out in the ministry witnessing, cooking and traveling
Something most people don’t know about you?
I’m a survivor on Flight 1549 Miracle On The Hudson.
Favorite quote?
“I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Favorite app?
Elevate, Duolingo and Words with Friends
Best way to start the day?
Reading the Daily Text, Prayer, Morning Stretch, Walking the doggie and a cup of local coffee.
Ideal vacation?
Any place with good food, friendly people and an opportunity to re-connect to nature is always going to be a fun ideal time for me.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I love music, so anything from Fionna Apple to Aaliyah to Amapiano to Yebba to Nirvana to Skillibeng and of course Michael Jackson. I just like good music that moves within.
Favorite movie?
This is tough so I’ll give 4 from my top 10: The NeverEnding Story, Any Given Sunday, Selena and Devils Advocate, all classics with great storylines, morals and valuable lessons within.
Biggest pet peeve?
Clothing tags sticking out and saggy pants with boxers showing.
Favorite show?
Next Level Chef (Fun fact: When I’m cooking dinner, I talk in the kitchen as if I’m on the show and have my family rate my dishes like they are a judge from the show)
Perfect way to spend a Saturday?
Out witnessing until 12pm and then enjoying family time, a good Netflix binge, and a medium ribeye with Tanner Alaskan crab legs, wild caught shrimp and some bourbon (Blanton’s) or red wine.
