The 1828 Project is one of our signature programs at IndyHub and each year it’s full of incredible leaders between the ages of 18 and 28. Emma is a part of 1828’s Class VII. We sent her some questions and she responded. Keep reading to learn more about Emma!
How do you spend your days?
I’m the Brand Manager at People for Urban Progress where I spend my days creating engaging content, sharing the PUP story through our social media, and planning our events and programming.
Where are you originally from?
Indianapolis (Irvington), Indiana
What made you lay your roots here in Indianapolis?
After moving back I got to re-introduce myself to the city and experience the new initiatives and ideas that are shaping Indy. It’s exciting to see! I wanted to be involved and see how I could do my part to better the city that has given me so many opportunities and friends.
It’s the weekend. What are your plans and/or favorite things to do when not at work?
I’m with friends or family and trying to fit too many local events into one weekend. I love supporting Indy’s amazing music scene–whether it’s hearing a friend’s band in Fountain Square or some sweet jazz at Chatterbox. Otherwise I’m dancing, sewing, or sipping coffee on my porch.
When thinking about the future of our city, what are you looking forward to the most and why?
Seeing my peers get involved and engaged makes me hopeful for the future of our city. I see people I grew up with now creating community initiatives, starting podcasts, sharing their story and consequently the story of Indianapolis. The passion my generation has inspires me daily.
Quick- you can only eat at one local spot for the rest of your life. Where ya going and what’s your go-to item on the menu?
I don’t like this question, but I’ll take the daily sandwich at Wildwood Market.
What’s a local Indy cause that is near and dear to your heart and how might people go about learning more or getting involved?
Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. Go on their website, sign up for the volunteer newsletter–they have ample opportunities for education and involvement. I guarantee you’ll feel refreshed after spending a morning getting your hands dirty making our city look good.
It’s 2030: where are you and what are you doing?
Not sure exactly where I am or what I’m doing, but I have an MBA, show up early to meetings, and have finally watched the last season of The Office.
What’s your greatest idea for a new product or service that Indy residents could really benefit from?
It’s not a new product per say, but my cousin and I started a business making and selling scrunchies–and everyone can benefit from a fabulous hair accessory.
What book has impacted you the most to date?
To Kill a Mockingbird
Did you go on a vacation this year? If so, where and what did you do?
I was spoiled and went on a few trips this year, but the most special was visiting my friend in Kenya. I met, learned from, and laughed with her whole family, saw thousands of wildebeests migrate through Masai Mara, and don’t get me started on the amazing Kitenge fabrics I pored over in Nairobi.
