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Teej Jenkins
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Personal: Lives in Rochester; engaged with a daughter Teja, 16, and son Zen, 1 month.
Occupation: Manager/producer City 12; WXXI liaison to the City of Rochester; television host, Assignment: The World; television director.
Community activities: United Way’s African-American Leadership Development Program Alumni (2008).
My favorite thing to do in Rochester: Going to Six Pockets — “Home of the STEELERS!” They have it all — a great staff, plenty of pool tables, the hottest wing sauce I’ve ever had (Roaring!) It is the best place for watching Steelers games — if you can find a seat!
Biggest challenge I’ve overcome and how I did it: I had my daughter at age 21. I was unemployed and did not receive financial support from her father. I had to rely on public assistance, and the help and support of my family. I wanted so much more for my daughter and for myself, so I focused on getting a career and applied to Monroe Community College, where I earned my degree in communication and media arts, (as well as credits towards Medical Office Technology). I got off public assistance, worked two part-time jobs, and received an internship at WXXI. At the end of my internship, WXXI hired me. I’ve been with the station for nine years. I am very proud of where I am and what I do, and my family and friends are proud of me as well.
One thing I’ve always wanted to do but never have: I have always dreamed about backpacking through Europe – particularly Germany and its surrounding regions.
If I could change one thing about myself it would be: I want to be more of a risk-taker when it comes to pursuing goals. I heard that one of the characteristics that separates the super-successful people from the rest of us is their willingness to take risks.
The talent I would most like to have: I would love to know how to dance. I highly admire people who can express themselves through movement.
The one thing I can’t live without: Music. I couldn’t imagine life without it. Whether through songwriting or through listening to my favorite tunes, music is such a tremendous part of my life.
My favorite movie: Since it’s hard to name just one, I’ll cheat and name a few. The Lord of the Rings trilogy, West Side Story and The Godfather are a few of my favorite movies of all time.
One of my favorite sayings is: “Don’t be good, be excellent.”
A person who has inspired me (and why): My mother Bertha Lurlene Jenkins, who passed away this past July after a very brave battle against ovarian cancer. She faced her illness the way that she faced life itself: without complaint, with pride, strength, courage and faith. She was a true leader and the greatest mother there ever was.
