‘”Zumba might have saved my life. I taught it and lost 80 lbs,” Zandrea Stephens said.
Zandrea Stephens story is truly inspiring. The Gainesville High School graduate has overcome obstacles, achieved dreams, and is eager for more! A single mother of three, she is dedicated to the youth of our community.
“I want to get my sons involved in the community and make a difference.”
Zandrea wanted to be a special needs teacher and attended Savannah State University and Brenau University. After making it to her senior year at at Brenau University she decided to put her education on hold for her children. Zandrea has plans of completing her degree at Brenau and believes in teaching education to her children.
“God first, then education,” she said.
She calls Frances Meadows a dream come true and she wants to go beyond what is expected of her. This attitude seems to prevail in her life.
“The road’s been difficult. I’m a stronger woman. My boys help build me up,” she added.
We thank Zandrea for taking the time to answer some questions about her life, interests and love of our community.
Question: How long have you been in Hall County?
Answer: “My whole life.”
Q: Who is the most interesting person y’all have met here in Hall County?
A: “I met a man under the bridge feeding the homeless . He was very stand-offish. The youth sang a song and the man began to cry and gave his testimony. He then went on to get a job and is no longer homeless. There are NO excuses.”
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
A: “Jamaica. I love Reggae.”
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: “‘Mary Poppins,’ the music, the singing, the happiness.”
Q: What inspired you or led you to your current career?
A: “I was a Park and Rec camp counselor, and then a camp coordinator. When this facility (Frances Meadows Aquatic Center) opened, I wanted to be a part of it. I was part time at the front desk, then I was Senior Secretary. Then Recreation Program Manager came available, and I had helped build the program, so even though I was less educated than some candidates, I was grounded and experienced.”
Q: What is your favorite restaurant in Hall County?
A: “I must say Scott’s on the Square or the Collegiate Grill.”
Q: What is your favorite thing about Hall County?
A: “The youth. On the weekends, my kid’s friends are always at my house and I try to shed light and love on them.”
Q: Where do you see yourself in five or 10 years?
A: “With my degree and possibly the Division Manager of Frances Meadows Aquatic Facility.”
Q: What former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Hall County?
A: “E.E. Butler gym and Fair Street swimming pool. We had camp there when I was growing up.”
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
A: “My sons and I started a mentor group, ‘My Sons Plus 1= THE movement.’ This is a movement we started because we want to cease gang involvement.”
The Faces of Hall County is a project to showcase the amazing people that live or work in our community. If you would like to nominate an interesting person to be featured please email babernathy@gonorton.com.
PROJECT PATRONS:
