Candace Ruth Robinson was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with Ms. Candace.

Candace Robinson As Cover Story Interview Feature – TheCelebrity.Online March 2023 Edition

How do you introduce yourself?

Candace Robinson: I am Candace Ruth Robinson, an educator, consultant, and performing artist. Those closest to me would regard me as a “professional student” of various studies as I’ve always enjoyed intellectually stimulating tasks. I received a dual, Bachelors of Arts degree with great honor distinctions in English and Spanish literature from the illustrious Fisk University located in Nashville, Tennessee. From there, I matriculated at Vanderbilt University where I obtained a Master of Arts in Latin American Studies, with an emphasis on Portuguese Literature and Afro-Brazilian History.

The intrigue, research, and writing around abolitionist writings of the transatlantic world were of paramount interest when I studied at the Federal University of Bahia (UFBa), in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Additionally, I would go on to receive a Master of Education, in Educational Leadership from Lipscomb University, which certifies me as a K-12 administrator. God directed me to a rich, professional career in public education. I continued a successful career in education, instructing at the secondary level world language teacher for nearly 15 years in the Metropolitan Nashville Public School district.

During this period and tenure, I returned to my alma mater, Fisk University, and served as a Spanish lecturer to incoming freshmen students as well as taught non-traditional adult learners written and oral communications at a local college. Additionally, I had an opportunity in the non-profit world, excelling as a regional project manager, coach, and trainer, servicing school districts across the nation.

Currently, I contract with a notable social media company and work as an independent education and general business consultant. After nearly 20 years in education, I continuously reflect, not merely on my next step, but on how I can be of greater service to my local, national, and global communities.

How was the transition from your childhood into adulthood/teenage and what good and bad things do you remember?

Candace Robinson: My parents were adamant about me receiving a quality, formal education. As a result, my academic experiences were profoundly supported and enriched. I had the privilege of receiving private education from kindergarten through fourth grade; and then, upon application, was accepted into the top middle and high schools in the city.

As the youngest child, I spent a lot of time alone. More times than I would have liked, creating genuine friendships was difficult, which led to some unfortunate experiences. During those times, I had to learn a valuable lesson about trust, loyalty, and authenticity, which have had an uncanny resemblance during In adulthood. While I have numerous associates, my friends, and loved ones are a very particular group of individuals with whom I am blessed to know and also support. As a classroom teacher, I often found myself supporting the “underdogs”… students who have been the victim of gaslighting and bullying…students for which it is obvious that his/her peers were envious of their appearance, success, and intellect. I am so grateful and honored to have been a refuge for them, and most importantly, that they allowed me to support them in that way.

Struggle – What hardships have you faced during your life?

Candace Robinson: I am not sure having the right support group/ “soul tribe” would qualify as a hardship, perhaps emotionally it can. I have had the fortunate experience of meeting and befriending people from all walks of life and literally all across the globe. In the midst of forging these relationships, unfortunately, not all have been spiritually or emotionally supportive. Upon graduating from Vanderbilt, a person I considered a friend, stated in the most sarcastic way “it’s great that you’re receiving a master’s degree, but what are you going to do with a Latin American Studies degree?!” suggesting that these industries are not lucrative or feasible for me to be successful.

More recently, I was the subject of tokenism in one of my professional roles. When diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging became “buzz” words in the education industry, it was downright obvious that these organizations were unaware and miseducated about people of color, more frankly with African Americans. Nonetheless, I am grateful for the experience because it taught me that not only can I weather any storm, I can use my talents, skillset, and connections to create a legacy supporting those who look like me and to those unafraid to be included in courageously brave conversations AND action plans to dismantle systemic concerns. Furthermore, connecting with others who truly value the importance of diversity and belonging, and have professional respect for people who do not mirror them racially or socially, has been the ultimate reward. We understand the importance of true relationship-building and professional and personal respect!

As a dear colleague of mine said once, “there is an illusion of inclusion that permeates some professional spaces these days”…needless to say, what I’ve found to be the most authentic and grounding responses to this adverse experience are holding on to God’s unchanging hand, being satisfied with the reflection in the mirror, and pushing through with a smile!

What things people usually do not know about you?

Candace Robinson: As I mentioned before, I am the youngest child and only child among my parents. Both of my parents were married and reared children during their first marriage – there is 14 years age difference between myself and my next sibling.

At first glance, no one would know that I am a polyglot who speaks Spanish and Portuguese. I elected to live in Salvador, Bahia beyond the required semester at university before returning to the United States to accept a teaching position.

I am a flutist! I began learning at the age of 9…I need to pick up my instrument again! It’s been ages since I’ve played and is on my bucket list to resume classes in the very near future.

I enjoy cooking and baking!

What make you unique from your competitors in the industry and life?

Candace Ruth Robinson: Having a global lens to hold and look through while assessing various topics (i.e., education, social, racial, economic, and political) has been one of the most unique qualities I have. I apply it to just about every situational task in which I’m professionally and socially involved.

What are your major upcoming events?

Candace Ruth Robinson: I will officially launch my consulting business this year! I am excited to provide services around education and general business consulting, and there are a few projects in the works that I look forward to unveiling as things formalize.

Additionally, ‘The Light’, a film project in which I starred, will premiere this year as well! The project is co-produced and directed by Antwon Willis of Nashville, Tennessee, and Shonda Lou, of Atlanta, Georgia. They are extremely talented and have worked with a number of notable actors, writers, producers, and filmmakers in the industry. Antwon is a former student of mine, so working under his leadership has been a “full circle” moment!

What are your diet preference and physical measurements?

Candace Ruth Robinson: I do not have any dietary restrictions, however, I refrain from pork as much as possible. I am 5’3” and curvy, medium to large size.

What expert advice would you like to share?

Candace Ruth Robinson: Acknowledge God FIRST! Regardless of how one may reference the omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent being (i.e., Creator, Most High, Higher Power, etc.) it is important to look beyond religion and have a true connection and relationship with THE entity higher than oneself. Once that’s done, everything else falls into place.

Also, you are your own competition! There’s only one you – God broke the mold when you were made! Live authentically! Travel! See the world! Always be open to making possibilities realities! If I only thought I would teach, there would have been many experiences left unrealized.

What are your social media links?

• Facebook: Candace Ruth Robinson
• IG: ms._candaceruth (C.R. Robinson, M.A., M.Ed.)
• Twitter: @crr0723