The Justice Defender, 34

 Owner, Managing Attorney of the Seekie Law Firm, LLC

Tell us about your vocation. Why did you choose it?

I am a criminal justice attorney fighting for the rights of those accused of violating criminal laws, those facing divorce and child custody, and those navigating immigration. I chose this field of work because I felt that it would maximize the number of people that I would be able to help during critical times in their lives. This line of work also reflects my family heritage as my parents immigrated to the United States and became citizens, and now I can assist others to do the same.

Tell us about your activities in the community, especially what you’re most excited about.

In the community, I serve as the president for the Macon Chapter of the Georgia Association of  Women Lawyers and the area vice president for the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys. Both groups center on female attorneys and building a network in the community, while learning from those who came before us.

I am also excited to be a Steering Committee member of Georgia Women and Those Who Stand with Us, a social organization centered on women’s rights and civic engagement. I am also involved with the Macon Bar’s Diversity and Inclusion committee, which aims to improve equity within the local legal field.

Right now, what is the best thing going on in Macon?

The best things going on in Macon are the local community events. I love attending the Cherry Blossom Festival, Juneteenth concerts, Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra, the Pan-African Festival, and more.

What would be a missed opportunity in Macon?

A missed opportunity would be not taking advantage of the music and arts that Macon has to offer. Whether it is a band at Society Garden or Mercer art shows at the MAC, there is so much to see which can easily be missed if you do not pay attention to the local talent.

Which three qualities have helped you succeed?

Compassion, determination and love. Leading from a place of understanding is key. I have also been determined in my work and in bettering my community. Lastly, a love for people and for what I do professionally translates into the work that I do in the community.

What is your vision for our community?

I believe Macon can be a community where native and non-native Maconites can converge safely. To join one another, whether it be at local churches, parks, or breweries for peaceful fellowship and friendship. A place where a business can develop from a seed into a larger corporation due to the support of its neighbors.

What needs to change to encourage continued progress in our city?

To encourage continued progress, Macon needs to take the education of all of its youth seriously and ensure that school retention is high. Many that find themselves having negative interactions with law enforcement, according to studies, have not completed high school and have below average math and reading levels.

What does it mean to be a good leader?

A good leader is someone who leads from a place of compassion. They have a vision for their goals and make sure to communicate it effectively to their support system. Being a good leader is not about being perfect all of the time. Instead, it’s about having the resilience to continue even when things do not go according to plan.

What do you struggle with personally or professionally, and what kind of support could help you through that challenge?

Personally, I and others struggle with private hardships that others may not see on the surface. I think it is important to enter into every interaction with empathy; you never know what someone else is dealing with.