Tell me about yourself.

I am a native New Yorker, born in Brooklyn and raised in Elmont. However, I lived in various states including Georgia where I earned my Bachelors of Science in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology with a minor in Political Science at Emory University. Following my undergraduate studies, I worked as a clinical research professional in various roles for over 13 years. Along the way I also earned by Masters in Public Health at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a concentration in Global Health. Currently, I manage a team as a Director in the Immunology and Inflammation Clinical Operations department at a reputable pharmaceutical company. While I am not leading my team to conduct high quality global clinical trial studies that benefit an array of patient needs; I enjoy scoping out the latest fashion collections, traveling, hiking, dancing, trying new boxing classes, and visiting museum exhibits. Additionally, I am working to launch an emerging lifestyle brand - AGLOWE®.

Of all the Young Patrons groups across the city, why did you choose the Apollo Young Patrons?

I made the decision to become an Apollo Young Patron after attending an AYP event - Behind the Curtain Apollo Tour, Reception, and Music Cafe per the recommendation of Steering Committee Co-Chair member Dr. Elaine Barfield. During the event, Apollo historian Bill Mitchell provided a tour that enabled me to have more insight about the rich history of the Apollo. For me it was one thing to watch the Apollo on tv as a child where legends had breakthrough performances and the legendary sandman ushered entertainment hopefuls off stage, but then to learn about the great impact the Apollo made within various communities and careers beyond the theatre inspired me to become a part of this ever-changing and ever-growing legacy. Additionally, AYP allows me to connect with likeminded individuals that want to be a part of the Apollo’s mission to serve as “catalyst for new artists, audiences, and creative workforces while partnering in the projection of the African American narrative and its role in the development of American and global culture”.

What is your Superpower?

Event Coordination Queen

Where is the most interesting place you've traveled? Why?

The most interesting place I’ve traveled to is Ghana. Aside from being the birthplace of my parents, Ghana has also been a country where I first learned a greater sense of my identity. The first president of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah quoted “I am not African because I was born in Africa but because Africa was born in me," and I couldn’t agree more. From the iconic landmarks as Independence Square and Elmina Castle, to the emerging fashion scene, the amazing jollof rice, and welcoming environment; Ghana has always been my home away from home.  In fact, I plan to be in Ghana in the next few weeks to partake in activities for the Year of Return. President of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo declared 2019 as the Year of Return for all African Americans and Africans in the diaspora marking the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans to English North America in1619. I look forward to embarking in the Year of the Return activities to commemorate our ancestors of the past, be mindful of the present state of affairs, and be part of the ongoing discussions of how we can continue to progress as a community in the future.

What is your business affiliation?

www.aglowe.com - Launching in 2020