Tell us about living in Detroit. What neighborhood do you live in and what makes your neighborhood unique?  

I live in Corktown, the oldest neighborhood in Detroit. I love it because although new businesses are flourishing, they still have businesses that have been around like PJ’s Lager House that’s been around since the 60’s. My neighbor, Lou was also around to witness the ’67 Detroit Riots and the house I’m in was built in 1905. Not to mention, the original red brick road is still intact and although my tires may hate it, it brings so much character to the neighborhood.

What have you learned from Challenge Detroit so far?

What’s really amazing is that I’ve learned so much from the fellows from their passion and relentless effort. Adjusting to a full-time position after on;y taking 6 credits my senior year of college has definitely not been an easy journey but I’ve been so blessed, to say the least. I’ve also learned to look at community engagement as human nature rather than a part of my job. Getting to know the people that have been around for decades and have seen Detroit at it’s best and worst and everything in the middle has been the most enjoyable storytelling I’ve witnessed.

Tell us about your host company and your role in the organization.

My host company is GTB which is advertising agency in Dearborn for Ford & Lincoln Motor Companies. I’m currently a recruiting coordinator. I’ve always had so much respect for GTB since I studied advertising in college because their campaigns are iconic in the advertising world so I’m pretty lucky to be there. My manager also allows me to work on different projects and initiatives not don’t just encompass HR which I am really thankful for. Our global SVP is extremely passionate about equality, diversity, and inclusiveness which is really inspiring. Not only do they support Challenge Detroit but we have many other programs and initiatives to increase diversity and involvement in the office. For an example, each summer they bring in two MAIP (Multicultural Advertising Internship Program), a program which I am an alumnus of. We also have “Engage” which are ways to get involved and support different minority groups as well as volunteering, blood drives, and donations.

What kind of impact do you hope to have with your host company and within the city?

GTB does a lot of probono work and community outreach for non-profits in Detroit so I think Challenge Detroit as a whole has had such a huge impact on GTB. I believe this encourages them to seek out opportunities focusing on the Detroit. I am also always encouraged to bring new ideas and programs to the tables which I act upon.

What are you most looking forward to this spring and summer in Detroit?

Music! So many music festivals, beautiful patios playing live music and just seeing everyone out enjoying what the city has to offer. I am also excited to volunteer in more places like gardens and outdoor type of events because the summer is incredibly beautiful in the city.

What do you envision for Detroit 10 years from now? 

I sincerely hope to see more money being funneled in neglected neighborhoods, the “outskirts” and communities that don’t get the attention and nourishment they deserve. I’m well aware that timing is a factor, but there are still so many communities that do not get nearly a third of the opportunities the Downtown & surrounding areas get. Many neighborhoods are stigmatized as being dangerous which is true, but these neighborhoods also include families, elderly and young children who are watching Detroit’s “comeback” but need hope and faith that their time will come soon.

To learn more about Esther’s experience as a Challenge Detroit Fellow check out her spotlight video below!