Introduction
Jamaican-born Esther Eugene is a busy woman. She is the founder of All Administrative Solutions, a company that integrates cohesive administrative systems into businesses and offers services such as program management, staffing and training in diversity, team building and cultural competency. In January of 2021, she was sworn in as the President of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP, a volunteer position. Leading the local chapter of this storied national organization, founded in 1909 to stop the scourge of lynchings across America, is big work. Esther can be found consulting on local issues ranging from gun violence to development at Tropicana Field, equitable economic development to the latest matters before City Council.
Years in St. Pete
37
Organizations involved in
NAACP; National Council of Negro Women; One Community; Chamber of Commerce; Leadership St. Pete Alum; the Necole Tunsil Foundation of Hope
What gets you out of bed every day?
The legacy of Servant Leadership instilled inside of me by my mom. Each day I wake up and pray that I am not only honoring her mission but also building on it, and blazing the trail or my two daughters Dashon and Samantha to follow when it is their time.
Why St. Pete?
Why Not? St. Petersburg is a city rich with history. And as I was reminded the other day my historic remembrance may not be someone else’s, however the opportunity is always there to merge both into a positive place. St. Pete is My City and I plan to pour all of my sweat and intellectual equity in my city to ensure that others will want to make it their city as well.
What is one habit that you keep?
I actually have two. 1) before my feet touch the carpet in my bedroom I simply say, “Thank You God.” And that statement encompasses EVERYTHING … from the day before to the current day and the future. And 2) Delay moments – I work really hard not respond with the first response that comes to my mind. It has really helped me in challenging times.
Who are some people that influence you?
My mommy – She came to St. Petersburg as an immigrant and fought hard in her way to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. Each person that I am connected to that truly has a heart to make a positive quantitative difference in the lives of others. Nelson Mandela – in spite of the atrocities levied against him he remained vigilant and strong as a champion for his people. Ella Baker – Ms. Baker was a quiet strength of the civil rights Freedom movement. She believed in unlocking the power of every person. This is something that I strive to do daily by building others up to ensure that they believe in their strength.
What is one piece of insight - a book, methodology, practice - that you would share with our readers?
There is a book called “Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents” by Isabel Wilkerson. This book completely changed the trajectory of thinking for me. I don’t want to ruin the reading for others, but I do encourage readers to read it with an open and awakened mind.
What is one thing you wish you knew about your work 3 years ago?
That I truly was the right person for the passion that has always boiled inside of me. And also that collaboration is a real, live, breathing possibility and it is achievable.
What’s next?
Well, in the extreme near future marriage to the most handsome, brilliant, hard-working man that I have ever met. Working on a Healthier Esther physically. Really being intentional about Health and Wellness. Professionally: To continue to develop and grow my business All Administrative Solutions, ensuring that I can add value through coaching, training, mentoring. NAACP: To continue to fight for social equality for all the residents in our city. Continuing the legacy of the branch while encouraging authentic engagement from all citizens on what it means to really honor and take ownership in building equity for each and every person in St. Petersburg. The sun shines on all of St. Petersburg, and that should be reflective in how we all live, interact, support and encourage each other!
