Tamesha Fikes
Community Development Manager- MidWest America Federal Credit Union
Vice Chair of Allen County Democratic Party.
2022 graduate of AVOW Women's Campaign Institute and Class 7 Alumni of Hoosier Women Forward
Can you share your journey into the work you do? What experiences, moments, or values led you here?
My journey into financial empowerment wasn’t something I planned—it grew out of curiosity and care. My first job out of college was at a financial institution, and early on I found myself questioning underwriters when loans were declined. I wanted to understand the “why,” not just deliver a no. That curiosity, paired with a genuine desire to see people in better financial positions, is what led me into community advocacy for financial empowerment.
After more than 21 years in the financial services industry, I’ve learned—both professionally and personally—that financial freedom isn’t about perfection. It’s built through dedication, determination, and discipline. I’ve lived the lessons I now teach, and that’s what makes this work meaningful to me.
Advocacy has always been part of who I am. Even as far back as middle school, I stood up for others when they were afraid to speak for themselves. I believe in learning information, understanding systems, and bringing that knowledge back to my community so we can grow together.
Through my civic engagement with the local Democratic Party as a precinct chair, I learned how to share critical information about our rights, the power of our vote, and the platforms of those running for office. That experience reinforced what I’ve always believed: access to information is access to power.
Today, I combine financial education and community advocacy because when people understand their finances and their rights, they don’t just survive—they begin to see what’s possible for themselves.
Who or what has most influenced your leadership and commitment to this work? This could include mentors, community, lived experience, books, faith, or movements.
The strongest influences on my leadership and commitment to this work are my faith, my family, my lived experiences, and the community I serve. My faith grounds me in the belief that helping others and giving back—especially to those who may not have what I have—is not optional, it’s a responsibility. That belief shapes how I show up in my work and how I lead.
My parents and grandparents have also been foundational influences in my life. From them, I learned strength in using my voice, humility in how I serve, and the importance of doing what’s right even when no one is watching. Their examples taught me that leadership isn’t about position—it’s about character. The traits they modeled—integrity, compassion, perseverance, and service—are the same traits that guide how I lead today.
Together, my faith, family, lived experience, and community have shaped the leader I am. They’ve taught me that leadership is about opening doors, sharing knowledge, and standing in the gap so others can see more for themselves and move toward greater freedom.
For those who feel called to doing this work, where would you suggest they begin? Is there a book, organization, practice, or resource that helped shape you?
For anyone who feels called to this work, I’d say: start where you are, with what you know—and serve one person well. As Arthur Ashe said, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” Empowerment doesn’t begin with having all the answers—it begins with the willingness to show up, share what you’ve learned, and walk alongside someone as they take their next step.
What wisdom or encouragement would you offer to the next generation of Black women leaders entering this space?
To the next generation of Black women leaders entering this work: your voice is needed exactly as it is. Don't wait to feel ready or credentialed enough to lead. YOur lived experience is part of the leadership toolkit. Lead with Integrity and humility, learn the systems, ask questions, and challenge decisions that don't sit right with you. Stay grounded in service. We are here to walk beside them, share tools, and help remove barriers.
How can people stay connected to and support your work? Please share your website, social media, current campaigns, or other ways to get involved.
Follow my work through my employer's socials - MidWest America Federal Credit Union. Check out the Allen County Democratic Party page. Follow me on LinkedIn as I share steps in my journey to create financial empowerment.