Year Two Fellow Rosie Williamson recently shared with us what she has been up to since finishing the program, how her work at her Challenge Detroit host company has evolved and how she continues to give back to Detroit. See what Rosie had to say, below.

Tell us, what have you been doing since your year as a Challenge Detroit Fellow?
Since completing the fellowship I’ve moved to a new apartment in the West Village, accepted a board seat for Detroit Passport to the Arts, joined the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Next Generation Committee and have become a regular at Sister Pie. Detroit continues to produce great restaurants, facilitate exciting events and gather wonderful people in the city; it’s not surprising my life continues to run on a fun and full schedule.

How has your work evolved since you ended your year as a fellow at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles?
My role within FCA’s Great Lakes Business Center is the Chrysler Brand Marketing Manager. I continue to leverage the analytical skills required from my job while I was a fellow, however now I spend more time ideating with my team on ways to activate the marketplace that best serves our dealers and customers. I’m fortunate to be working for a company I love, with people who support and challenge me and in a collaborative environment where we can see the effects of our strategy.

What are a few of your favorite ways to play in Detroit right now?
Supporting the performing arts continues to be a passion of mine so I leverage my involvement with Detroit Passport to the Arts to see and experience new art. We have a great season this year and I’m look forward to attending performances from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings and the Detroit Opera. I’m also a big hockey fan so anytime I can get over to the Joe to support the Red Wings is a win in my book!

How have you continued to give in Detroit following your fellowship year?
Fortunately, Detroit has such an active giving community that finding opportunities to spend time and provide support is accessible. I’ve been able to give through FCA’s partnership with United Way and our business center recently worked with the Detroit Children’s Center by hosting a birthday party for young people within the city. Outside of work my attention is either in West Village or supporting my fellow-fellows. Many have started or continued their community engagements efforts since completing the program so I make sure to spend time supporting their community initiatives.

Now that it’s the holiday season, what are three of your favorite places to #ShopDetroit?
Supporting local businesses is very important to me so this season I’m headed to Germack Coffee for some unique coffee and tea flavors, Moosejaw & Common Threads Detroit for Detroit swag and shopping online at Detroit Rose Candle Co. for a few Milk & Honey candles. I also plan to surprise my coworkers with goodies from Sister Pie – their baked goods are divine.