Meet Mayor Alix Desulme | Mayor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mayor Alix Desulme and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mayor Alix, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk-taking is part of life. To succeed in life, one has to take some level of risk. However, understanding what affects your risk tolerance will help you know what to consider as you take calculated risks. Many in today’s society are more likely to encounter social rejection, fear of failure, or the terrifying unknown.

However, we must encourage risk-taking in order for us to grow as professionals. As professionals or individuals, we must be open to leaving behind our comfort zones and not be afraid of failure.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a dynamic leader and dedicated community servant known for my unwavering commitment to North Miami and South Florida residents. I was appointed Mayor for this great city since Dec 2022, and it has always been my mission and purpose to be the People’s Mayor by making sure I put the residents and our local business community first.

In 2009, I made history as North Miami’s first Black City Clerk and the youngest Haitian American in the U.S. to hold such a position. Elected to the North Miami City Council in 2015 and re-elected in 2019 with 65% of the vote, my tenure has been marked by significant community-enrichment initiatives, such as the Golden Silver Senior Program and the “Let’s Eat Healthy” initiative.

I am a strong advocate for housing and social services, I played a pivotal role in creating the City’s first Housing and Social Services Department. My commitment to youth development is evident in the NoMi Leaders in Training Program (L.I.T.) and the Youth Opportunity Board (YOB) Summer Internship Program.

I am a lifelong servant of the people and remain steadfast in my mission to drive progress and advocate for the well-being of all residents in the City of North Miami.

In addition, I am an Adjunct Professor at St. Thomas University and an Educational Consultant for E.L.B. Global, I continue to influence and inspire by my relentless commitment to get any task before me accomplished regardless of the obstacles I may face along the way. Holding a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, I conducted research on truancy reduction strategies in public charter schools. I truly believe education is vital for every person and society.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, I love to travel and have been all over the world. But if I had a friend visiting me, I would take them to visit my great City of North Miami. There is much to do in our city and a great way to enjoy a good time with friends and family. First, I would take them to The Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park which is a 22-acre oasis of subtropical plants, trees, and animals.
Second, we would go to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) of North Miami which presents contemporary art and its historical influences through exhibitions, educational programs, and collections.
Third, we would get something to eat at Casa Mia Trattoria, which is one of the best Italian restaurants in the area. Then, we would stop by Pastry is an art for some of the best desserts on this side of heaven.
Lastly, I would take them to NoMi Village to hang out for the night. South Florida’s premier, outdoor arts and entertainment venue is located in the heart of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I can’t say “thank you” enough to express one of my favorites of all time; I am grateful I had the opportunity to know this teacher, especially my fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Mary Mayrick, for being such a significant part of my life. She has made such a massive impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without her.

Website: mayor.northmiamifl.gov

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adesulme

Image Credits
Nick Photo Studio