Meet Rashida Williamson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rashida Williamson.

Hi Rashida, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My interest in politics began my senior year of high school when I took government with Mrs. Humphries. I was intrigued by how the government dictates our life; however, we are the people who chose our leaders and trust them to lead as an example. For that reason, I attended Clark Atlanta University to obtain my Bachelors in Political Science. My entire undergraduate experience revolved around politics. I aided at the Georgia State Capitol under the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus (GLBC) for Senator Michael ‘Doc’ Rhett and for the late Congressman John Lewis on Capitol Hill under the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF).

Additionally, I volunteered and worked for numerous Georgia local and state campaigns under RaZor Solutions Group. Each experience built my passion for educating young African Americans about American politics, our rights and the electoral process. Therefore, during the Georgia 2020 Runoff Elections, it became evident that I needed to be a light for my generation to inform them. As Kerry Washington once stated, “You may not be thinking about politics, but politics is thinking about you.” That is why I established my nonprofit, New Freedom School, Inc., in June of 2020. The name generated from the hard work and legacy of Freedom Schools during the Civil Rights Movement. We want to continue organizing and educating young African Americans just as these schools once performed.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I can honestly say the road to establishing a nonprofit is not easy. You have to ensure you follow the rules and guidelines of the Secretary of State’s office and the IRS. Additionally, you want to be dedicated to your mission and vision to the fullest extent. My nonprofit should not be ordinary, but extraordinary. I would love for it to be a household name. That is why I am learning as much as I can to benefit my organization by finishing my Masters of Public Administration in Spring 2021 and pursing my doctorate in Leadership in the Fall of 2021.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Currently, I work for the Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (ABI) as an External Affairs Project Assistant. I assist the departments of Government Affairs, Planning & Community Engagement, Marketing & Communications and Arts & Culture. I specialize in administering technical, analytical and administrative support. That is why I am most proud of my team’s dedication to our work at ABI. Our team has an understanding of the institutional impacts and systematic barriers within communities. We continue to ensure all programs involve equity and inclusion. Which is why I believe I was chosen to join ABI because of my diverse background in government, politics and community involvement. I am young professional who is ready to share my creative ideas and initiatives to support my community.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for anyone looking for a professional career in politics can be found in one word, network. Network is the true way to get to the top. You need the connections because your title may need resources or support in the long run. You can build networks easily through volunteering on a campaign, joining professional organizations and signing up for any internship. However, one thing I wish I knew when I started out is that every volunteer experience will be different. It could involve the outcome, the team, the support, or the politician’s real reason for wanting to serve.

Contact Info:

• Email: newfreedomschool@outlook.com
• Website: www.newfreedomschool.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/newfreedomschool/