When I grew up, my parents were very involved in our community. So involved, that when I was 8 years old, my parents made me participate in a speech contest. I was the youngest competitor the group had ever seen.
By the time I was 9, I won first place. I worked really hard, and I beat a group of high schoolers. It was pretty amazing.
Being involved with writing and public speaking has made me who I am today. That's why Podium is so important for the youth of Richmond. That's why I stuck around for 3 years. First, as a programs intern. Next, a designer. Then a social media manager.
My time culminated in a role of communications and event management.