We Started Here: Gabrielle

“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works.”

If we were to sum up this next young leader in one word, it would be “light.”

We Started Here, an original series by The Elmont Excelsior, sheds light on courageous young adults from Elmont who are following their dreams and making a difference.

Our featured change-maker today is one of those young people whose roots are in Elmont, yet whose branches and fruits extend far beyond.

A proud product of local Dutch Broadway Elementary and Elmont Memorial High schools, Gabrielle calls herself a “Mighty Spartan” and keeps fond memories of her days running track for the Elmont Track and Field team.

And she hasn’t slowed down since. Now a writer, community advocate, communications director, mentor and motivational speaker — to name a few responsibilities — Gabrielle serves as a leading light offering a sense of guidance & direction and touching everyone on her path.

Without further ado, please enjoy our interview:

Name: Gabrielle White

How Long You’ve Lived in Elmont: 22 years

Schools attended: Dutch Broadway Elementary School, Elmont Memorial Jr-Sr High School, CUNY – Sophie Davis School of Biomedicine, CUNY – School of Professional Studies

What are your career goals?

My career goal is to create platforms that will serve to empower others while championing diversity, that for generations to come those influenced will live in service, committed action, and make strides for equality in educational, economic, social, and political realms.

What are you most proud of?

Two things – First, the opportunity to speak at Harvard Law School this year.

Second, being an architect of abundance. In doing so I create windows of opportunity for all to experience joy and success that they may share the abundance that comes into their lives with others. I live in service and consider it a blessing to do so. Whether it’s being a voice, lending a helping hand, making a phone call to someone and connecting people in a way that will aide in successfully executing an event, project, or mission – I live in action and am committed to helping others live at their highest potential.

How would you describe your work ethic? Where does it come from?

My family is my foundation. I don’t take for granted the values they have sewn into me. I come from a diverse background and everyone’s successes span from the arts and medicine, to business and politics. A common thread regardless what field they are in is to strive for excellence, never give up, always do that little extra – do more than what is expected of you, and be kind to others no matter what their role or position is.

What do you believe sets Elmont apart from any other community?

Elmont’s strong point is its diversity. It’s a thriving community of a blend of cultural backgrounds where we all learn from each other and live as neighbors in a harmonious way. Even if we may not always agree on something we agree to disagree and share in laughs and good times together within the community.

What would you like to see more of in Elmont?

I would like to see more for the youth in our community. Housing for students, new grads, or young professionals so they will stay within the community and be able to offer their fresh perspective and young talent instead of taking it outside the community when they leave. I’d also like to see a positive change in landscape from increase in greenery to diversity in the new businesses that are brought here. An introduction of boutique style small business shops would be nice. Though I am not at all against bringing in a Trader Joe’s or a large chain business that has a positive brand message and is known for being well groomed. Beautiful architecture inspires the residents, attracts shoppers from other communities, and makes Elmont an attractive candidate to those looking to buy a home and move into our community.

If you could in one sentence, how would you describe Elmont?

A familial community that values education, encourages success, and takes pride in its members.

The best advice you’ve ever gotten:

In summary it was to keep going and never stop. Do so much that you forget what you’ve accomplished because you’re so busy living in action. Have such passion for life that everything you do will be done in love and those who experience you will feel joy in their life too.