-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is… Tiphaney Helm?
An energetic, loving, kind-spirited Roanoke native who is passionate about youth, community and servanthood. I enjoy meeting new people and making connections. I also love good music, good food, and good vibes.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised in Roanoke, right off 10th Street. My childhood was full of great memories: family get-togethers, running up and down the street with friends, family reunions, sleepovers with cousins, going to church all the time – just being a kid. I was either with ”real” cousins or “church” cousins. My parents instilled faith, integrity and respect which fostered an environment full of love and support. I’m grateful to have had a childhood and a village that was always taking care and looking out for each other.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I attended Virginia Western Community College where I earned an Associate of Science in Business Administration & Management. I furthered my education at Liberty University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Management, all while getting married and raising a family.
Before embarking on the journey of having my own business, I worked for various companies throughout the Roanoke Valley. In the past, I serviced various local businesses, offered accounting services, training and financial literacy. Currently, I am a Revenue Analyst/Underwriter for a Third-Party Health Administrator in Chicago, IL.
What is your official title and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am the founder and choir director of Y.U.N.G.E.N.S. which is an acronym for Youth Unifying & Narrating God’s Encouragement, Name & Salvation. The youth community choir, ages 13 and up, connects with the community by encouraging peers and community through sound. My responsibility is to offer a safe space for youth to come and express themselves through song, while building peer connection and community.
How important is family to you?
Family is incredibly important to me. My family has always been there to provide support, love and a sense of belonging that formed my foundation. No one knows you like your family. My family accepts me and all of my out-of- the-box perspectives, outlandish ideas and help me navigate life’s challenges and success. I’m so grateful for my family!
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
My playlist is usually diverse and consists of various artists. This particular playlist would include Miranda Curtis, UK Gospel Choirs, Prince, Beres Hammond, Erykah Badu, Juls, Nipsey Hussle, Donnie McClurkin, J.Cole and Tom Misch.
How would you describe your relationship with the City of Roanoke?
My relationship with the City of Roanoke is deeply rooted in a commitment to fostering connections and improving the lives of those around us, especially with our youth. My love for this city drives my dedication to being an active member of the community, empowering the younger generation by providing them with mentorship and resources that nurture their potential.
Outside of your profession, what do your hobbies consist of?
I enjoy being outdoors, skating, thrift shopping with my girls and cooking for my mom.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of your family?
My church family has had the biggest impact on my life outside of my family. I spent many hours at the church house growing up, yet it shaped who I am today. There were lessons I learned that I now teach my daughters, and wisdom I still receive from the members of the church. I’m grateful for the spiritual guidance, relationships and support shown throughout the years.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
We are often told we dream too big, or that we cannot be. I would tell my younger self, “Girl, Go and Be Whatever you Want to Be!!! Your Dreams are Not Too Big!”
