Melva Tate, the July 2019 Momma of the Month and owner of Tate & Associates, is no stranger when it comes to putting in the work for her family and her career.
Tell me about yourself.
Melva McCray Tate—fabulous at 50. I was born in Gary, Indiana. Moved to Birmingham when I was five, moved backed to Gary when I was 15, back to Birmingham when I was 25. But if you ask me, I’m an Alabama girl. Mother of two children, Jamel (works in mechanical/electrical installations) and Danielle (works in sports management for a sports technology firm). I also have two adorable fur-babies, Coco and Saban. I’ve been in business fulltime for 10.5 years running Tate & Associates, specializing in leadership consulting that includes motivational speaking, training, career coaching, and human resource consulting.
What do you want your daughter to learn from your life?
To be independent, resourceful, and respectful. Live life to the fullest. Don’t let the naysayers distract you from your purpose. Be kind to everyone you meet. Smile often.
What are the best and worst things about living in Birmingham?
Best: friends and family. The majority of my circle of support is here. Also love the food in Birmingham. Worst: traffic, crazy weather, ancient, deep-rooted, political views, but I have no plans to move anywhere else. I’ve learned to deal with it or be a part of the change.
What is your proudest personal moment?
There is not one. I’m proud when I see others stretch themselves, accomplish a goal, land their dream job, etc. Just seeing others do good makes me proud. Being a part of that, large or small part, makes me even prouder.
What is your proudest mom moment?
Hearing my kids say, “This is for you, Mom” and knowing they are ok mentally, physically, and emotionally.
What was your biggest aha moment for your business?
The need for a team and many hands. I’m all about teams, and having the awareness and ability to delegate some of the load to others has been fulfilling and rewarding.
What advice do you have for women who are juggling building a career with raising children?
Make time for your children, family, and those in your circle that are important to you, even if you have to set a reminder or schedule a specific date or time. Projects and clients will pass, but your children and family will always remember if and when you were there for them.
What’s next for Melva Tate?
Personal or professional? Personally, my goal is to travel more and do at least three international trips per year. This world is too beautiful not to experience its wonder. Professionally, I’m shifting my business model to more speaking and training opportunities vs. coaching and consulting. I’m also planning to release a book series in the next year, in addition to more digital/on-demand coaching and consulting projects.
Is there anything you would like to add?
My mantra is “put in the work,” and it’s simply a call to action to put your passion and purpose to work—not for you, but for those of us who benefit from your gifts and talents.
