TPA TALKS ABOUT DURKEEVILLE WITH MISS CARLOTTA

Tabitha Sylvester interviews Carlotta Williams about her involvement with Durkeeville.

• Carlotta explains the origin of her business name, "Kama Kina," derived from Swahili and an African warrior queen.

• She shares her diverse background in writing, journalism, public relations, and grant writing.

• Carlotta discusses her involvement in interpreting government processes for the community. Involvement in HIV/AIDS Advocacy

• Carlotta recounts her journey into HIV/AIDS advocacy work and her long-standing commitment to a nonprofit in the field.

• She highlights her role in grant writing and community interpretation about HIV/AIDS initiatives.

• Carlotta reflects on the evolution of her work and its impact on the community over 23 years.

• Initiating Durkeeville Renovation

• Carlotta shares her personal connection to Durkeeville and her determination to improve the community.

• She outlines her approach to gathering resources, setting up partnerships, and formulating social service plans.

• Carlotta emphasizes resident involvement in decision-making and the importance of effective social service providers.

• Overcoming Challenges

• Carlotta discusses overcoming challenges in her work, particularly navigating conflicts over contracts and directorship.

• She emphasizes her focus on delivering quality outcomes despite organizational hurdles.

• Carlotta highlights the success of involving residents in design decisions, enhancing project satisfaction.

• Community Engagement

• Carlotta encourages community involvement through Community Development Corporations and alliances.

• She reflects on the inclusive nature of projects like Hope 6, which need collaboration across sectors.

• Carlotta discusses the challenges of keeping community vision amidst private sector interests in housing projects.

• Retirement and Legacy

• Carlotta contemplates retirement and her desire to write books while still actively contributing to her community.

• She reflects on her accomplishments, touching many lives through her nonprofit work.

• Carlotta acknowledges the impact of her work on her personal life, recognizing the sacrifices made in pursuit of her mission.

• Discussion on homework and school life

• Sharing experiences with homework and school routines,

• Different approaches to completing homework, including doing it during school hours or at home,

• Dynamics of helping classmates with homework.

• Reflections on school life and dancing

• Memories of school life and being known as a studious student,

• Challenges and experiences with dancing during school years,

• Comparison to a movie plot involving a teacher who discovers a student's dancing talent.

• Passion for French language and its practical use

• Interest in learning French and experiences in French classes,

• Use of French language skills in journalism, particularly when covering events involving French-speaking individuals,

• Reflections on the significance of French language ability in various contexts.