Alumni Spotlight: Allante’ Collier

Allante’ Collier  is a graduate of  Kennesaw State University (2017) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering Technology. As a 21st Century Leaders student, Allante’ attended  Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology in Gwinnett county when she participated in  one of our summer leadership institutes in summer 2011. She attended Leadership Plugged-In (2011) one of two Turner sponsored summer programs at that time, where she was able to meet professionals in a variety of fields who inspired her career. Allante’ recently began her Project Management career in the construction industry and specializes in automation and controls for special projects, she currently works for  McKenney’s, Inc as Assistant Project Manager.

 Paint a picture of what you are doing currently

Currently, I am thriving in the Construction industry on the Project Management track. I specialize in Automation & Controls on special projects. During my time away from work, I serve as the National Professionals Publicist of the National Society of Black Engineers and run a lifestyle blog. Life is exciting and everything I could have never imagined!

How did participating in 21CL change you and/or lead you to where you are now

Participating in 21CL began my process of breaking away from my introvertive habits. I had to understand that growth does not come from being still and quiet, in a room full of opportunities.

What was a memorable or “aha” moment in 21CL

My “aha” moment in 21CL was networking with executives at Turner Studios during the executive leadership dinner. The professionals assured me that networking is just a conversation and I should not fear speaking with those in a higher power, as long as I make great use of the time.

How did 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college and taking leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc..

21CL introduced me to getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. I became open to initiating conversations with executives and narrowing down my focus points to ask inquisitive, worthwhile questions. The main tool that has assisted me along my journey was the numerous opportunities to speak to varying audiences to get me out of my comfort zone.

What’s something you have recently learned about leadership

Recently, I have learned that leadership does not have an “official” position. If one sees an opportunity to guide others in a positive direction, take full control and lead. Never let fear or one’s worry of “not meeting the requirements” halt that process.

 

Allante’ is now giving back to the organization that gave so much to her. She has been an active volunteer with 21st Century Leaders during the past year, participating in our student applications and interviews led by our corporate partners and professionals.

Are you an alumni of 21st Century Leaders and want to be featured in the next Alumni Spotlight? Update us on where you are now.

Alumni Spotlight, Khari Arnold

April’s 21CL Alumni Spotlight is Khari Arnold, a graduate of Westlake High School and Howard University, who currently works at Turner as a Senior Producer of NBA.com. Khari recently reengaged with 21CL by giving back as a volunteer by helping read and review our recent student applications. The same application he went through just a few years ago. Khari shares how enduring connections made with mentors through 21st Century Leaders lead to a career at Turner.

Khari got involved with 21CL in 2010 by attending 21CL’s summer leadership institute, Leadership Unplugged  in 2010 (now known as Turner Voices Youth Leadership Institute) and continued through the program during his senior year landing him an internship that following summer.

How did participating in 21CL change you and/or lead you to where you are now?

The media industry was something I had interest in as early as middle school. When I got to high school, I got involved with the yearbook staff and joined a local teen newspaper. These were great opportunities, but I found 21st Century Leaders to be the most enjoyable and satisfying experience. Here, I received great principles that allowed me to build the foundation of where I am today. The program allowed me to witness a professional setting in my desired field, while garnering vital information that would help me get there (and not just get there, but succeed while there as a leader). I was fortunate to learn what it was like to work on a team and pitch an idea to a panel of executives, something I still do in my current career.

What was your most memorable moment in 21CL?
To be quite honest, my most memorable moment was building a fantastic bond with the other 21CL members. We got so close that one week — I remember everyone saying it felt like we knew each other for a year. Meeting like-minded individuals with similar goals as me was extremely beneficial. We all want to network with people that are already established in their careers, but building relationships with your peers is just as critical. I still keep in contact with a few members of my class and if there’s anything I could do to help a fellow 21CL, I would do it in a heartbeat.
How did 21CL prepare you for your next steps?
It prepared me for my next step by leading to an internship at Turner the very next summer through their Turner Voices Internship Program. During my interview process, I explained the qualities I received as a 21CL and how I learned more about the company and business as a whole through the ‘Turner Voices’ program. Before I knew it, I was serving as a Communications Intern at CNN. That same summer my manager introduced me to a high executive at Turner Sports. I kept in contact with him throughout my four years in college, and now he’s my boss.
What’s something you’ve recently learned about leadership?
I recently learned that a leader must understand the various personalities of who he is guiding, and adapting to it when applicable. Especially the ones you interact with. Also, making an effort to be sure everyone feels like they have a voice — even though you’re the leader — is essential.

Are you an alumni of 21st Century Leaders and want to be featured in the next Alumni Spotlight? Update us on where you are now.