Every community needs an advocate and philanthropist like Albine Bennett. Albine is the Director of Communications for the CREATE Foundation, and her love of Northeast Mississippi is evident through her tireless work done both professionally and personally. Since The Source launched in Tupelo, she’s been an incredible friend and supporter of our network for professional women.
We know our readers will enjoy this opportunity to get to know Albine!
Tell us a little bit about your background, what you do, and how you got there.
AB: I was born in Riga, Latvia, and moved to the United States at the age of nine. I grew up in Belmont, MS, and have lived in Tupelo, MS, for the past 12 years. I currently work at the CREATE Foundation as the Director of Communications and Imagine the Possibilities Career Expo Coordinator, an event where we host over 7,000 8th grade students over a three-day period. Prior to joining CREATE, I worked for a marketing consulting agency and a construction company. Growing up, I had many jobs. Some I liked, some not so much. I believe all of my experiences, especially in the professional realm, have helped me get where I am today. I picked up skills along the way and don’t consider any job opportunity I’ve had a waste.
Community involvement seems to be a huge part of your day-to-day life (career and otherwise). How does that affect your motivation and inspiration?
AB: I am so blessed to live in a community that is so giving and generous, and I just want to contribute my share. Growing up, I had many people help me, and I feel the need to give back. There’s no greater feeling than to help others get what they want, whether that’s getting a new job or making a new connection. The people in my region are always ready to jump in and help. Anytime I have an idea or start a new project, I have the privilege of having friends who I can call on for advice or manpower to get the project off the ground. When things start moving, that’s when it’s exciting and motivating because that’s when you can see change start happening.
Tell us about some females who inspire you.
AB: I seem to be drawn to women who have overcome adversity and hardships in their lives yet have found a way to come out on top. Oprah Winfrey, Maya Angelou, and Joyce Meyer are some of the women that come to mind instantly.
With such a crazy schedule, what are some time management tricks you implement? How do you prevent burn out?
AB: Whatever I do, I do it intentionally and make sure I am present. I have a packed schedule, but I am very intentional about how I spend my time. I don’t procrastinate on projects that need my attention, and I am very deliberate in regards to what projects I commit my time to. I am especially protective of time with my family. I am very diligent about putting away my phone and being attentive when spending time with them.
Realizing that it all can’t be done at once is a way to prevent burnout. Pacing myself has become critical. When I get overwhelmed, I try to do something for myself like either taking a nap, going for a run, calling a friend, or taking deep breaths. It really helps to step back and take a break.
You’re responsible for the marketing and communication of your organization. What’s the best advice you could give to an organization looking to improve those aspects of their business?
AB: Don’t take marketing and communications for granted, and be consistent in your delivery.
Tell us about your involvement with The Source? What inspired you to join and what keeps you involved?
AB: Attending events hosted by The Source is always at the top of my list, and I always make sure they are penciled in on my calendar! What I love about The Source is that it’s an opportunity to meet ladies from different industries who I may not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. It’s refreshing to be a in a room full of women who are experts in their respective area of business who are also looking for ways to grow professionally and personally.
Albine’s dedication to her community should serve as inspiration to us all. The Source is proud to have her as a member in our network for women.