“Challenge Detroit allows me to become an open-ended funnel to collect information and let it run out to the River Rouge Students and Community. It has allowed me to expand my network, learn additional resources for our students, and make an impact on the City of Detroit all at the same time.” – Tasha Johnson

Attending TechTown’s Toast of the Town event with fellow Fellows (Carolyn and myself).

Life as a Fellow

Life as a Challenge Detroit Fellow has been simply amazing and mind expanding. When I first started the process, I wasn’t sure what I had gotten myself into. I was anxiously waiting for the challenge for myself and my community. After doing some background research on Challenge Detroit through CD Alumni and Google, I knew it was for me. I was ready to challenge myself, the City of River Rouge and Detroit, right?

Right from the start of applying, I knew my life was about to change in more ways than one and it was starting with technology.  I had no clue how to create a 60-second content reel or short movie on what and who I was.  After several takes of creating the reel, I had it right. My mind was already starting to expand with learning the knowledge of new technology. Then I received the email that I had been accepted into the program—yes, I was ready for the challenge. 

My goal of joining Challenge Detroit was definitely to do more living, working, playing, giving and leading in my personal life as well as my professional life. I was ready to become the large end of the funnel for River Rouge School District and the City of Detroit where most of our students come from. Whatever I gained from the program was going to immediately be used at the other end of the funnel to pour into my students and school district.

During my first challenge project, I was able to engage a few of the students from River Rouge High School for an interview session. This allowed them to see that their input mattered when it came to the city and that they could make a difference. It was eye-opening for them to see that someone wanted their opinions to make the city better.

I had already been challenged to live, work and lead by week 4. I knew so much more was to come.

ABOUT: My name is LaTasha Johnson and I was born and raised in the wonderful city of River Rouge, MI. I hold a Bachelor of Science Business degree in Management and Marketing from University of Phoenix.  You can always find me busy and giving back to my community through work at River Rouge High School or volunteering in the city.  When I am not working/volunteering I am spending time with my 7-year-old daughter, Parker, who is truly my world.  She loves to spend off-work time with me traveling or just being on the go.