Javiette Samuel

06 Oct Javiette Samuel

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

My vision is to see a concerted effort from various stakeholders addressing P-20 education; affordable housing/homelessness; food insecurity; health including physical, social, emotional, and mental; unemployment; small business development; COVID-19 economic recovery; and poverty, which is 42% for blacks. I have a vested interest in seeing all Knoxvillians, both natives and transplants thrive.

What are you reading that is on your nightstand?

How to be an Antiracist

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

As a Knoxville native, favorite memories include growing up in the 70s and 80s, sharing family time with loved ones, and eating the best southern foods. Raising my only son here with four generations of extended family for his formative years is a highlight. Walking across the stage for graduation at UT as a first-generation college student, and subsequently becoming a three time UT alumnae is also unforgettable.

What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?

Some of my best advice from my mentor was to invest early, diversify your income stream, help people even if they don’t reciprocate it, and never forget where you came from! Dr. Thelma Hunter, retired professor and administrator from Tennessee State University has been the best mentor ever!

What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

Keep God first, then people, then things. Stay true to who you are. Help others succeed, whatever ‘success’ might look like for them. Stay poised for new opportunities. Even if you are not seeking them when you are prepared they will often find you! Always reach back and help someone that is younger, less experienced, or less fortunate. Reach up to someone with more experience that can help edify and elevate you. And reach out to bring those walking beside you along the journey.