In this edition of Q&A, you’ll meet Linda Nosegbe, our new Director of Economic Mobility. She has deep experience in this space, tying threads between businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to support economic advancement for residents in underserved communities. Linda also has a vision for a more equitable Detroit, is passionate about strengthening her community, and loves to explore new cultures in places. Read on to learn more (and find out about her funny travel experience in Canada).

Q: You previously led philanthropic strategy and investments at Comerica Bank. How do you see this experience informing your new role?

A. During my time at Comerica Bank, I developed and led a comprehensive partnership strategy, which involved cultivating relationships with a broad network of strategic partners including businesses, nonprofits, community groups, and various entities within CRA and Community Impact. I believe this experience leading philanthropic strategy and investments has given me a deep understanding of how to foster economic resilience and upward mobility in underserved communities, which will be invaluable in my new role here leading the Economic Mobility team. I’m excited to leverage this experience to promote economic mobility through comprehensive, collaborative strategies, with the goal of ensuring that economic growth and stability go hand in hand with housing security, and community development.

Q: What excites you most about working at the Gilbert Family Foundation and leading  the Economic Mobility team?

A: I was inspired by the Gilbert Family Foundation’s strategic focus on uplifting Detroiters burdened by housing challenges by ensuring that economic growth and stability are intertwined with housing security. What motivated me the most about this position is the opportunity to play a critical role in advancing economic empowerment and equity in Detroit, and to make a tangible impact on the lives of Detroiters. I’m particularly interested in how we’re supporting small businesses, entrepreneurship, and workforce development initiatives.  The strategic aspect of the role – which involves building and maintaining partnerships with local and national entities, including entrepreneurs, business leaders, community organizations, and government agencies –  is particularly exciting! I look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance the reach of our initiatives. Similarly, I am eager to create an environment of growth, professional development, and innovation for my team.

Q: What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in your career that you think will help you in this role?

A: Throughout my career, I have learned several valuable lessons that will be of benefit to me in this role. To name a few: the importance of strategic partnerships, a community-centric approach, adaptability and innovation, a holistic view of economic empowerment, data-driven decision making, effective leadership and team development, communication and advocacy, commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a long-term vision and impact. I am confident that these lessons will help me drive the mission of the Gilbert Family Foundation forward, advancing economic empowerment and equity in Detroit.

Q: What do you see as the biggest challenge to advancing economic mobility, and how do you think your team can aim to solve it?

A: The biggest challenge to advancing economic mobility, particularly in underserved communities, is addressing the complex and interconnected barriers that individuals face. These barriers include limited access to affordable housing, quality education, financial resources, employment opportunities, and comprehensive support systems. Additionally, systemic issues such as racial and economic inequities further complicate efforts to foster economic mobility. Tackling these challenges is never easy, which is why collaboration is key.  We can continue to addressing them through a comprehensive, community-focused, and data-driven approach.

Q: Can you share a bit about your vision for promoting economic mobility in the Detroit community?

A: My vision for promoting economic mobility in the Detroit community is centered around creating a holistic and inclusive ecosystem that empowers individuals and families to achieve long-term economic stability and growth. This vision encompasses several key components such as affordable housing, education and workforce development, support for entrepreneurship and small businesses, financial empowerment, community engagement, strategic partnerships, addressing systemic barriers, and sustainable impact. By implementing these strategies, my vision is to create a thriving and resilient Detroit where all residents can have the opportunity to achieve economic mobility and contribute to the community’s overall prosperity. This aligns with the mission of the Gilbert Family Foundation to drive inclusive growth and opportunity, fostering an environment where everyone can succeed.

Q: We heard you love to travel. Do you have any unforgettable experiences exploring new places?

A: One of my favorite hobbies is traveling. I love exploring new cities, countries, and cultures. Traveling broadens my horizons, creates unforgettable memories, and offers new perspectives on life. However, I do have an embarrassing life experience a few years ago. My sister, a couple of friends, and I were heading to Toronto Canada for the Caribbean Festival. While driving on the highway into Toronto, I saw a sign that said “120” and instantly thought it meant the speed limit was 120 mph. I started speeding until I was pulled over. When the officer asked why I was speeding, I told him I wasn’t, as the sign said 120. He laughed and said, “Ma’am, that’s 120 km/h, not 120 mph.” He let me go with a warning, and for the rest of the trip I was extra careful driving. To this date any time I travel out of the country I try to learn about the speed limit in any visiting country.