Ukeme Awakessien Jeter: From Nigerian Immigrant to American Public Servant скачать в хорошем качестве

Ukeme Awakessien Jeter: From Nigerian Immigrant to American Public Servant

What does belonging mean in America — and who gets to lead? In this episode of PLATFORMS, we speak with Mayor Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, immigrant leader, author of ImmiGRIT, and the first Black mayor in her city’s 103-year history. From immigrating to the United States at 18 to entering public service as a mother motivated by her daughter’s experience with identity and belonging, Ukeme shares the personal journey that led her into politics and community leadership. This conversation explores immigration, identity, democracy, and what it takes to lead authentically in spaces where representation has historically been limited. In this episode: • Growing up in Nigeria and discovering race in America • The immigrant experience and civic participation • Running for office without a political background • Leadership, belonging, and building inclusive communities • Why representation matters in local government Ukeme reflects on courage, uncertainty, and redefining leadership through empathy, collaboration, and service. 👉 Subscribe to Platforms for conversations exploring immigration, identity, leadership, and global perspectives shaping our world. CREDITS: Host: @DrRosaire Guest: @ukemeforus 💻 FOLLOW US ON: E: platformsoneconsulting@gmail.com YouTube: @PlatformsOne Instagram: @platformsone TikTok: @platformsone Spotify: Platforms One ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS 0:00 Introduction: A Journey Toward Belonging 1:08 Growing Up in Nigeria Before America 3:42 Moving to the U.S. at 18 — Culture Shock Begins 6:15 “I Discovered Race After Arriving in America” 9:27 Searching for Belonging in a New Country 12:04 The Moment Motherhood Changed Everything 15:18 From Concerned Parent to Community Advocate 17:46 Running for Office Without Political Experience 20:12 Breaking a 103-Year Barrier as Mayor 23:05 What Leadership Really Looks Like Behind the Scenes 26:11 Building Trust Across Communities 29:34 Why Immigrants Must Participate in Democracy 32:48 Leading While Scared — and Doing It Anyway 36:02 Immigration, Policy & Real Community Impact 39:10 Writing ImmiGRIT and Owning Her Story 41:22 Advice to the Next Generation of Leaders 43:10 Closing Reflections: Belonging & Courage