Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Hamm.
Hi Nicole, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born at NAS Jax into a military family and grew up on the southside of Jacksonville. I attended Duval County Public Schools including Brentwood Elementary, LaVilla School of the Arts and Douglas Anderson High School. After studying supply chain management at Howard University in Washington, D.C., I returned to Florida and achieved certificates in accounting technology management and operations from Daytona State College. Like many of our residents, I have faced challenges and worked hard to persevere, overcome and achieve success. My grandfather’s words fuel my work ethic to this day since he taught me a valuable lesson at a young age. “We don’t quit. We get it done.” His simple but impactful words had carried me through times when part of me wanted to give up — but I never did. I’ve seen the incredible growth of our community since my early years. But, I’ve also seen the challenges some of our residents face. My ultimate goal is to shift the narrative and create lasting change that uplifts our city and benefits all its residents. I proudly serve as the leader in various sectors of our city and am committed to seeing and creating a Jacksonville that works for everyone, not just a few.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s tough leaning into your voice and power. I tend to experience imposter syndrome quite a bit. You are wondering if I should be so vocal about something or feeling like it’s not my place to present something different. It is important for me to remember that those that came before me built a bench for me to be powerful, vocal, and influential. And even when it seems tough, that’s the very moment I must keep going, keep speaking. A good friend once told me you are more influential than you think you are. And I think that’s important for us all they remember. Use your voice. Step up for the right things and the things you believe. Build that bench and keep moving your community forward. It is up to us.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work in the food brokerage industry as a sales/accounting professional. It has really opened my eyes to the issue of food insecurity in our own backyard. I’m most proud of getting my employer involved in local food bank/pantry efforts to help support hunger in our community.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite memory is going to my first Jaguars home game with my grandfather. It was Jaguars versus New England (he was from Massachusetts) and it was so cold we left at halftime to finish watching at home with my mom. We had so much fun in the first half and it was my first time watching sports live.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @iamnicolehamm
- Facebook: @iamnicolehamm
- Twitter: @iamnicolehamm
Image Credits
Jessi Bain
