Kiffani Zackery is the necessary change the community needs to improve workforce skills for the upcoming generation. She's committed to providing stepping stones for an easier transition into the corporate world.
Recently crowned Miss Black Tallahassee US Ambassador 2018, Zackery intends on using her title to improve professional development. The Miss Black Florida US Ambassador Pageant is a program focused on providing young African American women the opportunity to empower themselves and to become an advocate for their communities. Zackery is the fifth recipient to carry the title and eager to push a different initiative to be of service to the citizens of Tallahassee.
"I feel like professional preparation is often overlooked, but it’s something that is very needed especially within our community. Our generation is becoming the first generation to get into the workforce full-fledged with all of the resources and opportunities that we have in front of us," Zackery said.
A Native of Atlanta, Georgia, Zackery is a 25-year-old first generation college student pursuing a Masters of Business Administration from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Zackery began participating in pageants during undergrad at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing. She is currently wearing two crowns also serving as Miss Omega Psi Phi 2017-2018, which provides an additional platform to concentrate on activism.
Zackery said, "The one thing I love about this pageant system is that, there's a large focus on service and being an agent of change. That's a large part of what holding a title is about. Ok, how are you making a change in your community?"
Tallahassee has been home to Zackery for the past three years. She quickly became acclimated with the city’s spirit and admired the opportunity to be of service with the local schools and universities.
Tracey Bowen-Bell, the 2018 State Pageant Director said, “Through service, Kiffani can lead others to address some of the pressing needs of the community in an effort to create lasting and impactful change."
In order to introduce her vision to the public, Zackery plans to host events in Tallahassee. Heavy is the Head: State of the Black Women, is an upcoming event that will be held on FEB. 6. The event is an open panel discussion to target the different societal issues black women currently face.
Dominique Parks, Miss Black California US Ambassador 2018 added, “What I admire most about Kiffani is that she is such a hard worker in any position she has. If she sees a need for something, she'll fill out and a leader like that is the best type to have on your team. I have seen her in multiple leadership positions and she has gone above and beyond for everyone. The impact she has had on FAMU during my tenure here has been significant.”
Zackery’s determination and passion will undoubtedly help her stand out to be a change agent and promote her platform in community service.
“If people don’t have the tools and resources in front of them I want to provide them for them. I want to be that resource for people,” said Zackery.