Ahmad Yassir
26 | Marketing Manager, Vermont News & Media
Residence: Bennington
Career highlights you are most proud of.
I take immense pride in my role, which allows me to utilize various platforms and collaborate with teams to lead the promotion of the southwest Vermont region and southern Vermont. My responsibilities include visually curating local events and attractions to engage a wide online audience effectively. I am particularly proud of the significant impact I’ve made through the implementation of campaigns that promote the region, fostering collaboration within the community and contributing to the sustainability of local media by doubling our online reach within a year. Additionally, I find great satisfaction in having assisted numerous students in pursuing their higher education goals, exhibiting my art at the Bennington Museum, and promoting Garlic Town, USA! 2023.
Community involvement.
Our region thrives on a strong sense of community and a vibrant culture of volunteerism. I take pride in my roles on the boards of both the Better Bennington Corp., a designated downtown organization, and United Counseling Head Start. Furthermore, I actively participate in organizing various community signature events with the Bennington Banner, including back-to-school initiatives, a safe Halloween celebration and a talent show. In addition, this year I had the privilege of participating in the Changemakers table by the Vermont Community Foundation and VBSR, and being a member of the Shires Young Professionals.
Motivation for living and working in Vermont.
After graduating from Bennington College, the strong community bonds I formed during my student years, coupled with the passion demonstrated by some of my faculty members and the support of my friends, inspired me to make Vermont my home. It’s the perfect place for me to live and engage in meaningful, impactful work.
Favorite part of your job.
Collaborating with community stakeholders. But what truly stands out is the support, trust and agency that Jordan Brechenser, president and publisher of Vermont News & Media, and Susan Plaisance, advertising director at the Bennington Banner and Manchester Journal, have placed in me.
Most inspiring mentor.
Matt Harrington, executive director of the Southwest Vermont Chamber of Commerce. He sets an outstanding example for young community leaders with his boundless energy and creativity. His professional expertise in navigating the county, combined with his unwavering passion for the community, has been invaluable to my growth. Matt has consistently shown trust in me and provided invaluable guidance throughout my professional journey in Vermont.
Best career advice you have received.
Avoid burning myself out and remember to prioritize regular meals.
Something fun about yourself that few people know.
I earned a teaching certificate for aikido (martial arts) at a remarkably young age, and I have received multiple awards in visual arts and Arabic calligraphy. Additionally, I had the opportunity to teach art and peacebuilding in four different countries before completing my undergraduate degree.
Three words that best describe you.
Adaptable, creative and compassionate.
Favorite Vermont escape.
Lake Shaftsbury!
Favorite Vermont season.
Fall, particularly in Old Bennington and North Bennington!
Favorite downtime activity.
Spending quality time with friends at a local hangout or a friend’s place, especially when it’s bonfire season.
Favorite social media.
Instagram, for its inspiring visual content and because it’s a great way to stay connected to friends and family abroad!
Favorite smells.
Thyme and the scent of the air after a refreshing rainfall.
Causes you would support if you had unlimited access to funds.
Those that ensure access to food, promote the arts and advance education for all.
