Shamia Jackson

When it comes to improving underserved communities, Shamia says it’s not just a passion or a job, it’s what she was built for. And Oklahoma City is better because of her.

What makes you feel proud?

The moments that I’ve felt the proudest is when I am being trusted with a vision or plan and seeing it through. Whether it’s a town hall meeting that I coordinated, or a community block party I planned, that’s what makes me proud.

What keeps you up at night?

I’m up every night taking inventory of how impactful my efforts are. What keeps me up at night are unanswered emails, incomplete projects and the fear of letting my community down. I’m my worst critic and I hold myself to very high standards.

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

My Mother Joelene Jackson is my biggest influence. She died when I was 13, but her legacy lives on. She had a heart for children and underserved communities, too.

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

My biggest obstacle has probably been my inability to say no. I stretch myself way too thin. My career nickname has become Hector the Connector because almost anyone can call me for a community related issue and if I can’t solve it I can connect you to someone who can.

One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?

I strive to be different everyday. I am a student at heart. I hope to always be growing and learning. Always. But I hope to me more patient, more empathetic and more knowledgeable

“My career nickname has become Hector the Connector because almost anyone can call me for a community related issue and if I can’t solve it I can connect you to someone who can.”

What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?

Economic growth. Communities that thrive in economic growth tend to thrive in all other areas. Building a better tax base, which leads to better schools and education which leads to better job opportunities, which leads to happy families and a safer community.