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ABE AWARD NOMINEES 2024
By Tressa A. Olden
Brittany Smith
Brittney is living her best life. beautiful and smart!
Education
•California State University, Bakersfield
•Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Exercise Science
•Minor in Psychology
•Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Professional Experience
•Enterprise Holdings
•Client Strategy Manager (March 2020 – Present)
Promoted to manage strategic initiatives and client relationships in the fleet management division.
•Branch Manager, Fresno, CA (2018 – 2020)
Oversaw daily operations, sales performance, and customer satisfaction.
•Rental Agent, Bakersfield, CA (2014 – 2018)
Began as a rental agent and progressed to management through exceptional performance and leadership.
•After-School Program Educator & Substitute Teacher (2013 – 2014)
Supported students’ academic and personal growth through structured after-school activities and classroom instruction.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
•Volunteer at Riverbank Food Kitchen, helping to support food security initiatives in the community.
•Dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., promoting service and social action.
Personal Interests and Achievements
•Enjoy my spiritual walk with Christ, which has given me a deeper appreciation of the world as His creation and a unique perspective on life.
•Active participant in recreational volleyball and kickball leagues.
•Avid traveler with a goal to visit 40 countries by age 40; Bali, Indonesia, is a favorite destination so far.
•Passionate about singing and dancing, finding joy in self-expression.
Key Strengths
•Strong leadership and strategic planning skills.
•Commitment to philanthropy and community betterment.
•Energetic, adventurous, and driven by personal and professional growth.
Jalaysia Clements
Jalaysia Clements 17 years old , Daughter of Jatisha Tyson and Jeremy Clements, her parents first born, she is the grand daughter of Renita Hampton, she has always been very quiet, kind and helpful. She takes care of her brother and her sister as a big sister should.
A senior in high school she carries a 3.8 gpa while being a basketball star. She has played since she was 8. Her plans are to go to college and play for their basketball team while studying Medicine.
Julia Broussard
Julia Broussard, born on September 22, 1932, was the second oldest of 12 siblings and a true matriarch. From a young age, she took on the responsibility of raising her 10 younger siblings, teaching herself essential skills like cooking, cleaning, knitting, and harvesting to support her family.
Julia later married and had three children of her own, but her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. She played a pivotal role in raising her grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, instilling in them the values of hard work, compassion, and resilience.
After moving to California, Julia continued her life of service, working as a cook, cleaner, and harvester. Her dedication to her community was evident in her work for the church, where she cooked for gatherings, served others, and provided meals for the homeless. Her love and generosity became her legacy.
Julia Broussard is not just a pillar of her family and community but also a culinary legend, celebrated for her signature recipes. These cherished recipes became staples in her household and a source of joy for those around her. Julia’s kitchen was always a place of warmth and teaching, where she passed down her secrets and techniques to her family, ensuring that these beloved traditions would live on for generations.
Her carrot cake is the stuff of legend, a dish that has likely graced countless family gatherings, church events, and community meals. Equally adored is her homemade sausage—a testament to her resourcefulness and culinary skills. Julia’s ability to bring people together through food is a reflection of her generous spirit, nurturing not only stomachs but hearts as well.
Her legacy lives on not just through her care and kindness but in every family member who now carries forward the recipes and traditions she lovingly taught them.
At 92 years old, Julia is still actively caring for her great-great-granddaughter, a testament to her enduring strength and commitment to family.
Julia Broussard’s life is a shining example of selflessness, resilience, and love
Terrance Gonzales
Terrance is the youngest of three sons born on June 6 2009. Being an overachiever he strives to maintains a 4.0 gpa while training and building his basketball skills. He is currently a sophomore at Natomas high school where he plays on JV basketball team. After high school Terrance hopes to go to college at North Carolina to become and wants to become president one day.
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