Ukeme Awakessien Jeter: From Nigerian Immigrant to American Public Servant

Описание: What does belonging mean in America — and who gets to lead?

In this episode of PLATFORMS, we speak with Mayor Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, immigrant leader, author of ImmiGRIT, and the first Black mayor in her city’s 103-year history. From immigrating to the United States at 18 to entering public service as a mother motivated by her daughter’s experience with identity and belonging, Ukeme shares the personal journey that led her into politics and community leadership.

This conversation explores immigration, identity, democracy, and what it takes to lead authentically in spaces where representation has historically been limited.

In this episode:
• Growing up in Nigeria and discovering race in America
• The immigrant experience and civic participation
• Running for office without a political background
• Leadership, belonging, and building inclusive communities
• Why representation matters in local government

Ukeme reflects on courage, uncertainty, and redefining leadership through empathy, collaboration, and service.

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CREDITS:
Host: @DrRosaire
Guest: @ukemeforus

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⏱️ TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction: A Journey Toward Belonging
1:08 Growing Up in Nigeria Before America
3:42 Moving to the U.S. at 18 — Culture Shock Begins
6:15 “I Discovered Race After Arriving in America”
9:27 Searching for Belonging in a New Country
12:04 The Moment Motherhood Changed Everything
15:18 From Concerned Parent to Community Advocate
17:46 Running for Office Without Political Experience
20:12 Breaking a 103-Year Barrier as Mayor
23:05 What Leadership Really Looks Like Behind the Scenes
26:11 Building Trust Across Communities
29:34 Why Immigrants Must Participate in Democracy
32:48 Leading While Scared — and Doing It Anyway
36:02 Immigration, Policy & Real Community Impact
39:10 Writing ImmiGRIT and Owning Her Story
41:22 Advice to the Next Generation of Leaders
43:10 Closing Reflections: Belonging & Courage