Editor's Note: This story is the latest in an occasional series on young leaders and entrepreneurs trying to make a difference in Texarkana.
TEXARKANA, Texas -- The American Dream is alive and well, and Vashil Fernandez, city director of planning and community development, exemplifies that notion.
Fernandez moved to the United States in September 2010 from Jamaica. He attended and played basketball at Valparaiso University in Maryland and then lived all over the nation, including in Georgia, Indiana, South Dakota, Florida, California, New York and other places as a professional athlete.
After leaving his sports career, Fernandez became the community development specialist with the city of Texarkana, Texas. But it wasn't long before he was promoted to interim director for planning and then made permanent director on June 20.
"I felt excited and relieved. I was in the interim position for a year, and it was nice to be in a more permanent position," he said.
Fernandez carries the responsibility of writing reports and preparing grant applications, performing GIS analysis and providing information and assistance to the public, as well as other agencies outside the city.
"I manage my staff and the budget for the department. I give oversight to the various grant programs that each staff manages. I also look at long-range comprehensive planning, as well as economic development, neighborhood and downtown revitalization initiatives," he said.
Having the experience and background necessary to carry out such responsibilities is important. But Fernandez credits his success to something different.
"I also think my attitude towards being a servant and my passion for people and development has helped," he said. "Above all that, my passion is to serve God where he has called me to be."
In addition to his job, Fernandez is actively involved in various civic organizations. He is a member of the Texarkana Homeless Coalition, an advisory board member for the Salvation Army, board member of Leadership Texarkana and a member of Greater Texarkana Young Professionals.
Fernandez is a highly motivated individual, enjoying the ins and outs of his career and nonprofit memberships.
"I enjoy the process of putting a plan together and seeing it all the way through to where it is benefiting the community," he said. "I also enjoy getting to know people from various backgrounds."
From Fernandez's perspective, it takes a lot of ambition, the right education and work experience, and a bit of passion to accomplish something great.
"It makes a great impact when it is something that you are passionate about," he said. "Having an academic background is important, but being able to connect with people and adjust to different situations is important as well."
For those interested in a similar career path, Fernandez advises, "find people currently working in the field you would like and seek out their mentorship or guidance."
He suggests obtaining bachelor's and master's degrees in areas such as business, political science, planning, economic development and finance, ideally.
"The ability to communicate with people is a must, as well as being able to solve problems, work with Microsoft Office products and effectively manage multiple projects," he said.
Most important, Fernandez says, is to have faith: "Live with all your might, trust God, and let him guide you."