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NYCHA Now
Exceptional Colleagues September 2023 

Meet the Coaching and Mentoring Leadership Academy Participants

Nii Akrofi Smart-Abbey

In January 2023, NYCHA launched its first-ever Coaching and Mentoring Leadership Academy (CMLA). Participants in the 16-week program received training and coaching in areas such as strategic communications and crisis management, and they had the opportunity to enhance their leadership and management skills through mentorship.        

Read on to learn more about a few of the mentors and mentees participating in the Leadership Academy.   

Assistant Property Maintenance Supervisor Tequila Smith and Training Manager Anya James  

Tequila Smith is an Assistant Property Maintenance Supervisor at Kingsborough Houses

Tequila Smith has been with NYCHA for 23 years. She has served in various positions, including as an Exterminator and Supervisor of Caretakers. She is currently an Assistant Property Maintenance Supervisor at Kingsborough Houses in Brooklyn.   

Ms. Smith joined the CMLA to network, grow, and learn from her colleagues.  

“The Academy was a great experience,” said Ms. Smith. “I must say I did learn a lot, such as feeling comfortable to reach out to your peers for help. Everyone is busy – it’s the NYCHA way – but to learn that others [also feel that way was helpful]. I have learned new ways to tackle my daily duties. Thanks again for the experience.” 

Anya James is a Training Manager in the Learning and Development Department

Anya James has been with NYCHA for 25 years, 15 of which have been in management positions. She is currently a Training Manager in the Learning and Development Department.    

Ms. James joined the CMLA to encourage others and help them develop their careers. 

“I am immensely grateful for the transformative experience I had at the Leadership Academy,” said Ms. James. “The comprehensive curriculum, dedicated staff, and experiential learning opportunities have equipped me with the necessary skills and mindset to excel as a leader. The Academy’s commitment to fostering personal growth and professional development has undoubtedly shaped NYCHA’s future leaders, and I am confident that the lessons learned will continue to guide me as a leader throughout my career. I would like to personally thank the team for putting together an exceptional Leadership Academy experience that will forever remain a cornerstone of my success as well as others’.”