To celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth we interviewed local well-being champions and leaders within our community.
Meet John Bobb-Semple!
John joined the Blue Zones Project team in Shawnee in the fall of 2020 to bring his experience and passion to the critical mission of improving access to healthy choices in Pottawatomie County.
Prior to joining Blue Zones Project, John served as the Senior Director of Community Impact at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, responsible for Growth and Engagement Strategy, Network Leadership, and Partner Development to support 320 community-based food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. During his time, he led the expansion of the multimillion-dollar, 15 location Food & Resource Center network of high-capacity food distribution centers.
John is also a member of the Shawnee Chapter of Rotary International, serves on the Department of Human Services: Council of Voices, UCO Foundation Board of Trustees, and Advancing Oklahoma: A Statewide Conversation on Race advisory committee.
We asked John what his favorite Power 9 Principle is and other questions below.
"Understanding our Purpose can shape how we see our lives and the challenges we experience. That sense of meaning can impact our well-being, our outlook, and our health. It’s a critical component to thriving no matter our race, background, or socio-economic status. My purpose is to be a bridge-builder and this element of the Power 9 was one of the reasons I was drawn to be a part of this work."
Why do you believe you were nominated?
"I've committed my life to being a bridge-builder between people, organizations, and ideas. In fulfilling that purpose, I hope to model the behaviors of the Power 9 and inspire others to do the same."
What does #BlackHistoryMonth mean to you?
"As a black man growing up in southeast Louisiana, Black History Month focused on teaching about the heroes of the past to inspire us to achieve in the future. As this annual celebration has evolved, so has its importance. This month is not only an opportunity to learn about the contributions of once-in-a-generation luminaries like Colin Powell, Marcus Garvey, and Madam CJ Walker but also unsung heroes like Travis Hudson, Donnita Rogers, and my parents, Keith & Donna Bobb-Semple. Learning and celebrating the stories of servant leaders in the here and the now pushes back against narratives that say we, as a people, are defined by our struggle, ill-treatment, or ability to entertain. We are so much more, and there are inspiring people everywhere to celebrate this month, and all year long."
We are so grateful to have John as our Blue Zones Project Program Manager. John's leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion to help us better understand why well-being is important to everyone in our life radius. Thank you, John, for being a leader in our community!
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