-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Demetri Dunn?
If I had to describe myself, the best description would be this – a hard-working father that’s willing to help anyone in need. I am constantly learning life lessons that I can pour into the next generation.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised in Glasgow, Va., roughly 45 minutes north of Roanoke. I grew up in a two-parent home. My mother, Donna, is a former teacher’s aide and retired secretary for the Juvenile Division of Probation. My father, Kent, is a Marine Veteran who worked for years as a welder and youth outreach officer, before he retired.
My upbringing was shaped around discipline, accountability, love and respect. My sister and I were raised to always put family first and strive to do the right thing and help others. Growing up, I was a member of Union Baptist Church. As a result, public speaking became second nature to me and carried over into adulthood.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I moved to Richmond and entered the workforce at Gold’s Gym Willow Lawn. After being a part of the management team for nearly a decade, I enrolled in the National Academy of Sports Medicine. There, I received my certificate for personal training and became a certified kickboxing instructor.
In 2016, I found my way to Roanoke. Initially, I offered fitness opportunities for all ages. During the pandemic, I made a career pivot and became a licensed financial planner. Part of what I do now is assist seniors in navigating retirement.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
My current title is Managing Director of AmeriLife. Located on Electric Road, we are the local office for the state of Virginia, assisting seniors with Medicare, life insurance and financial solutions. Among the companies that I regularly work with are United Healthcare and Anthem.
I’m responsible for teaching and training agents, as well as caring and assisting for seniors at a very important time of their lives. I take tremendous pride in ensuring that their health and financial needs are covered.
How important is family to you?
Family is my “why.” My parents did an excellent job of raising me. They set the bar very high. Each morning, I’m motivated to get up and be better than I was yesterday so that my boys – Kyrin and Nikolas – can see firsthand what it looks like to work hard, love harder and provide for your family.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Without question, it would feature multiple genres. There would be some Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, Musiq Soulchild, Chris Brown, Michael Jackson, Maroon 5, Kid Rock, J. Cole, Kanye West and Justin Timberlake.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
The Annual Drumstick Dash, getting together with friends and family and running the streets of Roanoke for a good cause. I love being part of the Star City community, and I look forward to making more memories.
What are some of your hobbies?
Outside of work, my main hobby is being a volunteer basketball coach for the Roanoke Rockets’ AAU travel team. Growing up, I learned so many values from basketball. My coaches constantly emphasized that there are no shortcuts in life. The only way to accomplish a goal is to put in the necessary work. Seeing kids overcome challenges and push themselves beyond what they thought was possible is a feeling that nothing else can give.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
Timothy Turner, a former juvenile correctional officer, impacted my life more than anyone else. He always went the extra mile to get things done. And he practiced what he preached; he wasn’t just a talker. When the Lord called him home, I knew it was my time to pick up where he left off.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
To listen and take advantage of all the advice you’ve been given from the elders. Being young, I know that you feel like they’re always trying to tell you what to do. In reality, they have been there and are simply trying to guide you on an easier path to success.
