Tameka Jefferson, Community Relations Manager - RRT

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Tameka Jefferson, and I am the Community Relations Manager for Richmond Region Tourism, the region’s destination marketing organization. I manage the day-to-day operations of BLK RVA, and most importantly - I am BLK RVA.

I am usually behind the scenes working on BLK RVA and seeing the outcome of our efforts through the eyes of our community and visitors.

From sun up to sun down, what’s your ideal day in RVA?
I start my day by checking emails and social media to see what’s new in the tourism and hospitality world. Then I head down to the office, but not before grabbing a latte and some oatmeal from Urban Hang Suite. Next, I line my day up with meetings or a visit to a BLK RVA business to meet the owners. For lunch, I often make my way over to Lillie Pearl, Buttermilk and Honey, or a local food cart. At dinner, I’m prepping my mind to try something new – I search the website site for a new spot that I haven’t tried. I recently tried Mike’s Jazz Café’. It was delicious and Chef Kai is amazing.

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What would you say is Richmond’s best-kept secret?
There are a ton of places to visit, businesses to patronize, and cultural experiences to enjoy – and we owe it all to our dope business owners and event planners. They are the essence of what makes this region vibrant, gritty, and thriving and the reason why the Richmond Region is featured in several travel magazines!

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BLK RVA is all about supporting the thriving Black businesses and culture in the Richmond region and encouraging tourists to do the same. What’s one thing every visitor MUST do/see when they come to our region.
I would suggest checking out the listings and events calendar on visitblkrva.com’s website and following us on social media pages - @visitblkrva.

From mouth-watering eats to unforgettable experiences, our community embodies the heart and soul of our region. Additionally, patronizing our Black businesses not only helps us thrive but also offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture that makes us who we are. Plan a visit and explore!

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Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in Richmond - Southside through and through.

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What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re staying close to home in RVA?
I enjoy grabbing a bite at one of our many restaurants, hanging out with my family at local parks like Rockwood Park, Forest Hill Park, and Sunday Park, and enjoying the nightlife with friends at one of our local bars or lounges. Our DJs and live bands are sure to make me hit the dance floor with my infamous one-two step.

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When we say the name BLK RVA, what does that mean to you?
When I hear the name BLK RVA, I think of our passion, our culture, our history, our rising Black-owned businesses... our dopeness!  We are BLK RVA.

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Describe Richmond in 3 words. Resilient, Community, Eccentric