Cole: What inspired you to pursue a career in government, and how did you get started?
Coleman: As a child, I served the community with my father in ministry. We fed our unhoused neighbors and helped meet their needs. Having lived a life of service with my father in ministry within the community is the foundation for who I am today and why I chose to run for public office. Community asked me to serve, and I answered the call.
Photo: McBoat Photography
Cole: How do you prioritize work-life balance, and what advice do you have for junior professionals who are struggling to find balance? Coleman: There is no such thing as balance, because if you define what balance means in your life, you will ultimately break that rule. What is more important than work-life balance is having a support system that holds you accountable to being who you are and not your title or position. When you identify your passion for the work - it then no longer feels like ‘work’ and then it becomes sustainable. It becomes a part of who you are. You must define your purpose, and then everything you do will be an extension of fulfilling that purpose.
Photo: McBoat Photography
Cole: As an African American leader, what do you consider to be one of the most difficult obstacles you’ve faced? Coleman: Honorable Regis Groff once said ‘In the Capitol I am not white enough, and in the community I am not Black enough.’ I have had to learn to be authentic and ok with myself. What I discovered is that people will accept you for who you are if you are genuine and if you are the type of person others can trust and depend on.
Photo: McBoat Photography
20 The Acumen
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