Alumni Spotlight: Amy Phuong

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

I’ve been fortunate to have careers in various industries, including supply-chain logistics, government, and professional sports.  I’ve led small and large teams as well as budgets of more than $500 million dollars and assets.  Many of my significant accomplishments occurred during my time serving as the ‘Leslie Knope of Atlanta’ aka Atlanta’s Parks & Recreation commissioner.  Under my leadership, we improved operations and delivered many of Atlanta’s most consequential projects: Westside Park, Piedmont Park land expansion, Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center, and Grant Park Gateway.  We retrofitted several playgrounds and pools and served thousands of kids in enrichment activities.  My success as Parks commissioner led me to my current role – where I am responsible for shepherding our government relations at the Atlanta Hawks. 

Participating in 21st Century Leaders (21CL) gave me the unique exposure of opportunities I never knew existed.  My summer program at the Atlanta Christian College was the first leadership development program I had participated in, and it was the first time I spent time overnight, away from home.  21CL taught me confidence that my voice and leadership style was valuable, and the program cultivated my speaking skills to gain that seat at the table.  Most importantly, the program allowed me to reflect on what kind of person and leader I wanted to become ‘when I grew up’ and nudged me along that path that has been invaluable today. 

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

I remember learning about proper etiquette and practicing the placement of silverware while dining with other 21CL participants.  While that may have seemed insignificant or even boring at the time, it subtly taught me the importance of presenting yourself and making strong first impressions based on the environment you’re in. 

The friendships I gained during my summer camp experience with 21CL were most memorable.  It was the first time I felt I could geek out with others who were from diverse backgrounds yet had similar dreams and goals for themselves and our communities.  These friendships and mentorships inspired me to give back to others and developed my love for service.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? 

During my 21CL experience, I remember journaling – reflecting on the possible careers I wanted to pursue, and brainstorming skills and experiences needed to obtain those opportunities.  While I don’t journal as often I as should now, I constantly reflect on my leadership journey and how I want to continue to contribute and impact my community. 

I would describe my leadership style as an observant confidant.  I invest, advise, and support people whom I’ve come to know.  I am often asked to spend time catching up and giving advice to acquaintances, colleagues, and long-time friends.  I always answer the call to help others solve the thing that keeps them up at night.  Through these deep conversations, I challenge them to not be fearful of the leadership challenges that come.  21CL gave me my first experience with building meaningful and lasting relationships.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

21st Century Leaders develops young people as independent, confident adults that will lead industries and our communities forward. 

My advice to young leaders today:  Every one of you will go on your own journey.  Find beauty in the journey itself and be kind to yourself along the way.  Visualize your success.  Be bold and curious.  Blow up the system if that’s what it takes!