Name: Sabrina Norris Conner

Age: 35

Facebook: Bridge Fort Worth

Twitter: BRIDGE Professionals

Instagram: bridge.fw

LinkedIn: Sabrina Conner

How long have you been connected to Tarrant County?

I was born in Mississippi, but raised in Fort Worth, TX since I was 2 years old. I graduated from Fort Worth ISD’s O. D. Wyatt High School in 2000 where I was a member of the JROTC and Singing Chapparals Choir.


What was your first job ever?

I worked behind the snack bar at Brunswick Westcreek Lanes in Fort Worth, TX.

What is your profession and for how long?

For the past 3 years I have worked as the Program Director for a housing grant to house homeless individuals with a mental health or substance dependency diagnosis. I am also the current President and a co-founder of the BRIDGE Emerging Professionals organization established in 2012.


In your current industry, who was your first mentor?  What advice did they give you that you still use today?

My first mentor in the homeless and mental health world was Walter Taylor. Walter hired me to run the program and always encouraged me to stay true to myself and my beliefs.


What are some immediate projects you are working on outside of your professional life?

I’m preparing for my last year as board President of BRIDGE Emerging Professionals which is bitter sweet. We are gearing up for 2018. I’m also an inaugural board member of the newly established philanthropy group, Women In Power Empowering. We will host our inaugural women empowerment event and award our 2nd year financial awards to women experiencing temporary financial hardship. It’s a group of African-American women giving back.


What is an important quality you look for in your relationships with others?

Integrity.


What unique strategy do you use to expand your professional network that others do not?

I can do better at networking, but one thing I try not to do is force it.


How does your profession uniquely assist you in your plans to continue making Tarrant County Better?

Our work is addressing an issue that is adversely affecting our community. My program is mandated to be a collaborative effort, so it’s unique in that we work to collaborate with as many stakeholders as possible. We are able to bring some stakeholders who would not otherwise work together to the table to address the issue of homelessness.


How do you prep for an important business meeting and/or event?

I work by list. I create my action plan, adjust, and go through to ensure I don’t forget anything important, as well as, address all areas I need.


As a busy professional, how do you unwind?  

In my leisure I prefer mindless behavior with family and/or friends, things that only require you to have great time without a lot of stress. These include traveling, attending festivals, going to the movies, and definitely happy hour. The most important thing is just spending time with those closest to me.


If you could interview anyone, who would that be and why?

Tupac Shakur. Tupac was one of the most passionate and fearless persons I know. He went against respectability politics and addressed important issues with so much passion and drive. He wanted to empower people to believe in themselves and to fight against mistreatment. He had so much knowledge at a young age. Over 20 years after his death he is still relevant.


If you could travel and stay anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would love to travel to the beautiful beaches of South Africa.


What is some advice you have for others who want to make Tarrant County Better?

First determine what you are passionate about; otherwise, you will stretch yourself thin trying to do everything. If you follow your passion it will be a labor of love and well worth your time. Don’t become overwhelmed by all the needs; just become focused on how you can contribute positively. That will have the greatest impact.


Tarrant Influencer is a space where we spotlight individuals in the community that are making contributions that are note-worthy.  If you know someone who is deserving, please email us at info@BetterTarrant.com.