This Is My Hartford: Awet Tsegai

By Nan Price, Content Manager, MetroHartford AllianceAwet Tsegai is a Democratic endorsed candidate for Town Council in the Town of East Hartford who works in legislature at the State Capitol and a former member of the East Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals.WHY HARTFORD?AWET TSEGAI: I was born and raised in East Hartford. Hartford has always been a pillar in my life as I was growing up and as I’ve grown in my role with legislature in Hartford. It’s really become a place I call my second home. I’ve enjoyed going to regional events like the circus and sporting events, whether it’s UConn games, the Hartford Yard Goats, or Hartford Athletics.HOW HAS HARTFORD BECOME A PART OF YOU?AWET: It’s a part of me because I work for in the City of Hartford. I’ve become a part of Hartford by integrating myself in local places like grabbing a coffee at Story and Soil and spending time with friends at nearby restaurants like Red Rock Tavern.HOW HAVE YOU BECOME A PART OF HARTFORD?AWET: In addition to my work in Hartford, another way I’ve become a part of Hartford is through my membership with the Urban League of Greater Hartford, which provides adult education, youth development, workforce development and training and economic empowerment programs and services. It’s helpful for the region, helpful for the community, and it’s been helpful for me as well. I’ve met many different people and made friends through the organization.WHAT MAKES HARTFORD UNIQUE?AWET: Hartford is very unique in the sense that it’s a city, but it’s not as big as New York City or Boston. I’ve enjoyed seeing how things have evolved and changed and I think Hartford is perfect the way it is. It’s a very small community and everyone can get to know everybody. Professionally and socially, Hartford helps boost your confidence and your networking ability—it’s hard not to run into people you know, which I enjoy. HOW DO WE TELL THE STORY OF HARTFORD?AWET: In my time working in Hartford, a lot has changed and it’s for the better. People need to come into the city and experience Hartford, whether it’s to dine, to shop, or to come to sporting events or public events. Telling the story of Hartford is going to take word of mouth and a mix of people sharing their firsthand experiences with five or 10 friends. It takes people talking about those places they’ve explored and encouraging others to come and discover Hartford.