Why be part of The Collective Identity Mentoring?

I was drawn to the fact that The Collective Identity is an organization that is led by Black women, for Black women and girls. The mission and vision is inspiring and speaks to what I know is missing and greatly needed in not only Los Angeles but also in cities across the country.

You can learn a lot about a person's vibe by their musical taste.

Check Erika’s Vibe

And in her spare time…

In her spare time, she enjoys riding motorcycles and traveling with her husband.

Get to know Erika.

Erika Tate is a Southern California native. She grew up in Carson (Center View) and South Los Angeles/ Watts. A graduate of Alain Leroy Locke High School and the University of California at Berkeley with a BA in African-American studies and a minor in education. Erika is experienced in working with diverse populations and has enjoyed providing services to youth and families in underserved communities throughout Los Angeles, Chicago, and the Bay Area.

 Erika has over 15 years of combined professional experience in program development and management, providing direct services, case management, direct staff supervision, and oversight of agency and program budgets, policies, procedures, and operations. Erika currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer for South Central Prevention Coalition, a nonprofit organization in South Los Angeles. Erika resides in Riverside, Ca, with her husband Anthony and their fur baby Bear. She is the eldest of seven kids (five sisters, one brother) and a proud aunt to her five-year-old niece, two-year-old nephew.

Q&A with Erika

Tell us about a time when you experienced "Imposter Syndrome" and how did you overcome it?

I have some amazing friends and acquaintances that are killing it in their professions. I have always been happy for and proud of them but, there was a time when I was very insecure about my work in the nonprofit sector by comparison. There was also a season when I was “just” a housewife while my husband hit every goal for himself on his job. I cried a lot. 

It took prayer and seeking God for direction in my life and asking Him to give me peace and satisfaction in MY purpose. Also, trusting that God has me on a path leads me to fulfill the desires of my heart as it relates to my work. I also shared my feelings with my husband and closest friends and quickly realized that they viewed me and what I do from a completely different lens and found joy in knowing that I am right where I am supposed to be.

One question for Michelle Obama?

I would ask Michelle Obama what motivated her to create her own legacy as the First Lady. I would love for her share that personal (woman, Black woman, wife, and mother) and professional journey.

What are you reading?

I love to cook, so you can find me reading one of my many cookbooks, looking for a new recipe to try.