Her Story
About Sakari
Sakari Baker is a communications strategist based in Tallahassee, Florida, specializing in media relations, strategic messaging, and digital storytelling within the field of state government communications. She currently serves as Art Editor for the Florida Department of Children and Families, where she produces photography, videography, and graphic content that supports the agency's mission and statewide initiatives on behalf of children and families. Before stepping into this creative role, Baker spent nearly two years as a Public Information Officer for the department's Office of Child and Family Well-Being, leading proactive and reactive media outreach for major statewide programs, and earlier served as a Public Information Specialist II with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, where she managed publications, web content, and interagency communication for the Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection.
Baker holds a Master of Arts in Communication and Digital Media Studies from Florida State University, with an emphasis in public interest media, along with a Graduate Certificate in Project Management from the same institution. She began her academic and professional journey at Alabama State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a focus on Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology. Her early career took shape in Montgomery, Alabama, where she worked in production and on-air support roles at a local news station and later at Cumulus Media, gaining hands-on experience in broadcast operations, podcast production, and audience communication before transitioning into state government work in Florida.
Beyond her professional achievements, Baker is an active member of the National Honor Society's Public Relations chapter in North Florida and the Florida Public Relations Association, and she contributes her creative talents to social media efforts at her church, Family Worship and Praise Center. She also co-hosts a podcast called The Debrief, offering candid conversations and honest perspectives. Guided by values of integrity, honesty, and kindness, Baker is passionate about mentoring the next generation of communicators, encouraging them to think critically, embrace versatility, and lead with confidence and purpose.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sakari
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, determination, and courage. I try to stay open-minded, lead by example, and continue learning throughout my career, while always striving to make a meaningful difference.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've received is to encourage and support one another and to remain resilient. I've learned to stand tall, advocate for myself, know my worth, and lift up others along the way.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women entering this field to learn how to communicate, but more importantly, to learn how to think critically. Anyone can post on social media, but true value comes from understanding your audience, your message, the moment, and your purpose. I encourage them to be multi-passionate and to gain experience across every area — writing, shooting, editing, strategizing, and project management. I also believe it's essential to walk into a room with executives and leadership and confidently articulate who you are and why you do what you do. Don't be intimidated by others, speak up because your voice matters, and embrace obstacles as opportunities to learn and keep moving forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I see the greatest opportunity in using my specialties in media relations, strategic messaging, and digital storytelling to reach more children and families going through difficult times. My focus is on helping others make informed decisions so they can lead happier, stronger lives.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, honesty, and kindness guide everything I do. I strive to bring positivity to others, stay open to learning new things, and approach my work as a true team player.
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