Her Story
About Isabella
Isabella Cherney is a Senior Communications Specialist with the City of Charlotte, where she works in government communications and public relations. In her role, she writes remarks and talking points for the mayor and city council members, develops strategic communications, and pitches stories to reporters to help highlight the city’s initiatives and impact. With a career rooted in journalism and public information, Cherney brings a strong understanding of storytelling, media relations, and the importance of clear, timely communication between government and the community.
Cherney began her professional career in broadcast news in 2014 before transitioning to public communications and media relations in 2019. Prior to joining the City of Charlotte, she worked in public relations for a school district, where she played an important role in supporting communication and technology initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, including helping ensure students had access to devices for e-learning. A graduate of Indiana University Bloomington, she has built a career that combines journalism, public relations, strategic communications, media engagement, and community storytelling.
Cherney attributes much of her success to the strong relationships she has built throughout her career, including those with reporters, elected officials, colleagues, mentors, and community members. She is especially grateful for the support of strong, empowering women who have mentored her, as well as the encouragement of her parents and husband. A longtime volunteer with the Junior League, she now serves as a sustainer. Cherney encourages others to remain true to themselves and to support fellow women by being a “girl’s girl” who lifts others up rather than viewing them as competition.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Isabella
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the strong, empowering women I have been fortunate to have in my life. My mentors have encouraged me to pursue my goals with confidence, challenged me to grow, and supported me throughout my professional journey. I am also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my parents and husband, whose encouragement has given me the confidence and determination to continue pursuing my goals and striving for excellence.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to stay true to myself. Rather than trying to fit into someone else’s expectations or conform to a particular mold, I believe in embracing who I am and remaining authentic in both my personal and professional life. Staying true to myself has helped me build a fulfilling career, remain confident in my own voice, and make decisions that align with my values and goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to be a “girl’s girl” and support the women around you rather than viewing them as competition. There is room for everyone to succeed, and we are stronger when we lift one another up instead of tearing each other down. Kindness, encouragement, collaboration, and a willingness to celebrate the success of others can help create stronger professional communities and empower the next generation of women leaders.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges I face in government communications is navigating today’s complex and often polarized political climate. I strive to tell meaningful stories that inform and serve the public while remaining focused on facts, transparency, and the needs of the community rather than political division. At the same time, this environment presents an important opportunity to build trust through clear, accurate, and accessible communication that helps people better understand the work being done on their behalf.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Relationships are the foundation of both my professional and personal life. In media relations, I have seen firsthand that success depends on building trust and maintaining strong relationships with reporters, elected officials, colleagues, and the community. Personally, I deeply value the support of my family and friends, whose love and encouragement have helped sustain me through life’s challenges. I believe meaningful relationships are essential to both personal fulfillment and professional success.
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