LEADER Spotlight: Tatiana Newsome

1. What does being a Leader mean to you?

To me, being a leader means being an example to others on things that can be done on and off the court. This is not to say that I am perfect, but I try to show perfection in how hard I work and how I pay attention to detail.

2. What’s your favorite part of being a leader?

My favorite part about being a leader is that it allows me to guide others in the right direction. Whether I’m telling them or just leading by example, I feel that as a leader, I am the standard for how things should be done because of how hard I work and the passion I have for whatever I do.

3. How has EMA helped you become the leader you are today?

EMA has helped me become the leader I am today by pushing me to my limits. There have been many moments at EMA where I have felt like giving up, yet the coaches continue to push me. Not only did they push me to my limits, but they also showed me how to be a leader on and off the court.

4. What’s the best thing you’ve learned at EMA?

There are many things I have learned at EMA, from basketball skills to real-life scenarios. But, if I had to choose the best thing I’ve learned at EMA, it would be what Coach Jerome said to me when I was much younger, If your life depended on it, you would figure it out.

I’ve made so many excuses when I am tired, yet this quote keeps me pushing, knowing that I can do more.

5. How do you show up as a leader on and off the court?

I show up as a leader on and off the court by leading by example. I make sure I am the hardest worker, and off the court, I make sure I respect others and help others whenever they need it.

6. Who are some leaders that you look up to and why?

There’s not one person I look up to; there are numerous successful people that I listen to. I respect many people’s work ethic, and those are the people I tend to admire.

7. Define EMA with one sentence.

EMA is a family.

8. Complete the sentence: As a leader, I encourage people to…

Believe they can do anything they set their mind to, and their hard work and prayer are always the solution.