As Tom Petty sings, “She was an American Girl, raised on promises,” and as the song goes, I did find there was “a little more to life somewhere else” studying, working, and writing in London on and off for 10 years.
On the 4th of July, 2016, I embarked on a new adventure: moving to Seattle, Washington. After my exploration of the Great Pacific Northwest where I started a formal career as a childcare professional and teacher; I returned to the East Coast to reside in Boston, Massachusetts in October of 2019 to serve the South End community in a variety of roles at United South End Settlements.
This deeply fulfilling work led me to return to a role in higher education at a satellite office for Amherst College. I now dedicate my out-of-work time to serving community members and families in Boston.
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As a professional writer and digital publisher I enjoy pushing to achieve high standards that I set for myself– and like every writer the “good pressure” of a killer deadline. Planning, creating, managing, and amplifying written and visual content; nurturing and motivating young writers; and building brands are a few of my strongest passions.
I have gravitated toward fast-paced and innovative startups, but (insatiably) consume content from both traditional and digital media publishers.
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My travels and education have equipped me with exceptional skills in team work, adaptability, problem solving, and communication. These strengths have been tested while leading my employees, customers, students, colleagues, friends, and family in navigating unfamiliar surroundings and circumstances throughout the world.
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In my long-time home of Orlando, FL, I passionately supported the local literary community. As a member of “Writers of Central Florida or Thereabouts,” I was a regular on the writer scene: co-hosting monthly open mic nights, participating in various readings, and providing feedback at discussion groups beginning in 2015.
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My favorite part of my career is gathering a group of talented individuals and working together to create something greater than what each of us could achieve on our own. Working hard and collaborating together is the only reason the exact end product exists; it’s what makes work challenging and keeps it fun.
Jessica Toukatly 