Her Story
About Madison
I'm a Senior Special Events and Partnership Coordinator at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, where I've been working for 4 years. When I started, it was just an event position, but I've genuinely made it something of my own and made it something so much larger. I don't just create lasting memories and events - I take ideas and transform them into experiences. I work extensively with people in the community, cultivating partnerships, maintaining them, and making them something much larger by connecting on a deeper level. We organize around 10 events a year, and I focus on making sure our mission is completely clear the moment you walk through the door - you know what our mission is, what we stand for, and what we're asking for. But people also gain so much more - they're able to connect with each other. I'm not just working, I'm making a difference and changing the community. I'm also a Big Sister in the program myself, so I believe in this mission so wholeheartedly that I'm involved beyond just the work aspect. Fresh out of college, I was looking for that first big girl job, and I've always wanted to give back. It's never been about when I get there and how I get there - it's really more about how many people I can bring with me to wherever I'm trying to get to.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Madison
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would reach out and ask what part of this organization interests her, or if she's asking about my role, I'd ask her how much time she has because I could go on and on about it. I'd help guide her by asking what she needs from me, how I can help her get here, what steps she's already taken, and what she's looking from me. If it's about how to get her foot in the door or how to know if this is right for her, it would depend on the question she's seeking. I would absolutely help her and help anyone who wants to get involved - I can only speak highly. I love working with younger people coming out of college because they bring fresh, newer generation ideas that speak to more people. They remind you not to fall into the ways where you think 'this works, let's stick to it' - instead it's more like 'oh my gosh, amazing, where have you been? I'm so glad you're here.'
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I've always wanted to give back. I'm very passionate about this - of course I have my own goals and dreams, but it's never about when I get there and how I get there, it's really more about how many people I can bring with me to wherever I'm trying to get to. As a center midfielder in soccer, you are essentially the playmaker, getting people to where they need to go. You're not essentially the goal scorer, and I think that's where my mindset has become. I don't really care about getting the goals - I get a lot more out of helping people get to where they need to get to. I don't just go to work and think that is my life - I have so many other things I like to explore like photography, social media, and writing. These are outlets that only sharpen my creative perspective and storytelling ability. Instead of separating work and passion, I've been able to blend them continuously, building a body of work that reflects my voice, my vision, and my growth.
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