Tamara R. Allen, MBA
Co-Founder, Chief Visionary Marketing Officer
As a passionate and driven community leader with over 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, community engagement, and entrepreneurship, Tamara has worked across industries within the public and private sectors and is a Co-Founder of The Be! Agency, BE! @ Community Initiatives, and B.BLYSS! Events. As with many women of color, she has had to navigate unique circumstances and limited resources throughout her career. However, she has successfully ideated, co-founded, led, and supported entities, clients, and campaigns of diverse scale. She is particularly passionate about making a meaningful impact and supporting the needs of women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those who have felt unseen, unheard, and uncared for.
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She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Communications and a Master of Business Administration from Northern Illinois University.
"Everything thus far has helped to lead me to this moment."
I often reflect on a favorite proverb of mine, Proverbs 22:6: 'Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.' This resonates profoundly with me, echoing the journey that led me to co-found PEP!IN. My story is one of unique challenges and deep-seated passion for change. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago as the child of a single mother, my experiences have been rich and varied. From attending St. Sabina Academy, where I was inspired by influential pro-Black social activists, to facing the realities of unemployment during a recession, each chapter of my life has shaped me.
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In my journey, I've often faced difficult choices, balancing personal health, community commitment, and professional aspirations. These decisions, I believe, should not be as challenging as they often are.
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My path has been both relatable and distinct, molded by my identity as a Black, bisexual woman and an entrepreneur. I've confronted personal adversities, including dealing with sexual assault trauma and navigating health issues in a healthcare system that sometimes struggles to provide understanding and comprehensive care.
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The experiences of my late cousin and best friend, who bravely battled muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, have also profoundly impacted me. Seeing their journey, along with the struggles of many in accessing quality, affordable healthcare amidst societal challenges, has been enlightening and motivating.
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As a community leader and consultant, I've formed meaningful connections across diverse groups, gaining insights into the varied intersectional challenges people face. These experiences fuel my mission to create healthcare solutions that are equitable and accessible, acknowledging and valuing everyone's unique journey.
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I envision a world where healthcare is a basic right, tailored to understand and meet the needs of every individual, regardless of their story, background, or economic status. This vision, inspired by my experiences and those around me, drives me to empower others towards healthier, fuller lives. Co-founding PEP!IN with Melva and Olivia was a step toward this goal, a reflection of my upbringing and commitment to making a difference. For me, championing health equity is not just an aspiration; it's an urgent necessity.
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If you're serious about being an active participant in addressing the issues surrounding maternal health and morbidity and the lack of diversity in clinical trials. Let's connect.