Leading Ladies - TeQuion Brookins

Summary

In this episode of the Leading Ladies podcast, host Susie Seagull interviews Taquan Brookens, a double alumnus of Walsh College with an MBA and Masters of Science in Finance. Taquan shares her journey from a STEM undergraduate background to her passion for business and leadership. She discusses her work experience at McGregor Fund, which sparked her interest in philanthropy and led to her starting a public foundation aimed at increasing diversity in the nonprofit sector. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning personal values with professional missions and the role of business acumen in the nonprofit world. Taquan also talks about her entrepreneurial ventures, including her involvement in the upcoming NFL draft activities in Detroit through her new venture, Motor City Mimosa. The discussion emphasizes the significance of networking, mentorship, and the impact of servant leadership in achieving success and making a difference in the community.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Taquan Brookens is a double alumnus of Walsh College with an MBA and Masters of Science in Finance, following a family tradition of attending the college.
• 🚀 Taquan's career journey began with a STEM undergraduate background, which led to a pursuit of business knowledge to become a well-rounded leader.
• 💼 Early work experience at Flagstar headquarters and McGregor fund exposed Taquan to the business world and philanthropy, respectively, opening doors to new opportunities.
• 🏆 Taquan's leadership role at McGregor fund ignited a passion for diversity in the nonprofit sector, leading to the creation of a public foundation aimed at educating and building a pipeline of black and brown talent in philanthropy.
• 💡 The term 'Philanthropreneur' is used by Taquan to describe the integration of entrepreneurial spirit with philanthropic endeavors.
• 🌟 Walsh College's flexible and hybrid learning models were praised for allowing students to work while pursuing their degrees, a path Taquan also took to advance in her career.
• 📈 Taquan emphasizes the importance of business acumen in the nonprofit sector, highlighting the necessity of financial management for mission sustainability.
• 🧘‍♀️ Personal alignment with an organization's mission is critical for professional fulfillment and growth, according to Taquan's experience and advice.
• 🤝 The power of networking and surrounding oneself with a supportive tribe is a key theme in Taquan's professional journey, with a focus on being a 'relationship broker' rather than engaging in 'toxic networking'.
• 🏛 Taquan's entrepreneurial ventures, including the launch of Motor City Mimosa, are influenced by her business education and her commitment to community and philanthropy.
• ✊ Handling adversity with integrity and compassion, as well as leading with empathy, are key components of Taquan's leadership style.

Q & A

What educational background does Taquan Brookens have?

Taquan Brookens is a double Walsh College alum with an MBA and a Master of Science in Finance.

What was Taquan's initial motivation for pursuing a business degree?

Taquan pursued a business degree to understand how the business world works, as they initially focused on STEM during their undergrad.

How did Taquan's work at the McGregor Fund influence their career?

Working at the McGregor Fund introduced Taquan to philanthropy and inspired them to start their own public foundation to increase diversity in the nonprofit sector.

What is the term 'Philanthropreneur' and how does it apply to Taquan's work?

The term 'Philanthropreneur' refers to an entrepreneur who is engaged in philanthropic activities. Taquan uses this term to describe their approach, where their entrepreneurial endeavors are rooted in philanthropy.

How does Taquan's background in business education benefit their work in the nonprofit sector?

Taquan's business education provides them with the financial acumen necessary to manage the financial aspects of nonprofit organizations effectively, ensuring sustainability and mission fulfillment.

What is the importance of personal alignment with an organization's mission?

Personal alignment with an organization's mission helps individuals stay engaged and connected to their work, even during challenging times, and contributes to personal growth and job satisfaction.

How does Taquan handle adversity in their career?

Taquan handles adversity by staying true to their values, making decisions with integrity, and using challenging situations as teachable moments for personal and leadership growth.

Who are some of the people that have influenced Taquan's leadership style?

Taquan has been influenced by various inspirational people in their sector, including their hiring manager at the McGregor Fund, professional network contacts, and their mother.

What is the concept of 'networking' that Taquan practices?

Taquan practices a form of networking focused on being a connector for others, aiming to provide opportunities and resources to help others grow and develop their networks.

What exciting projects is Taquan involved in related to the NFL draft in Detroit?

Taquan is involved in launching a venture called Motor City Mimosa, assisting as an operations manager for catering during the NFL draft week, and planning watch parties and after-parties for draft picks.

How can clients connect with Taquan for business consulting and support?

Clients can connect with Taquan by visiting their website taquanbens.com or searching for their name online to find contact information.

What are Taquan's future plans in terms of education and professional development?

Taquan is considering pursuing a doctoral program in the future, once they have their organization and team set up to manage their current responsibilities.