Zamaria Ball

Zamaria: Attending the Reimagined Conference: AI on the Edge for Local Government, hosted by ICMA, was both affirming and challenging in the best way. As a scholarship recipient, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about how artificial intelligence is actively reshaping the local government landscape—and more importantly, how we as public servants choose to respond to it.

In a world where 60% of men avoid regular medical visits, Karen Brazell saw an opportunity to make a difference. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space that prioritizes men’s health, she founded Elevation Men’s Clinic, a health and wellness center designed to address the unique needs of men in a welcoming, discreet, and client-focused environment. “Men often wait until they’re seriously ill to seek care,” says Karen.

Mr. Wayne Williams still hasn’t fully wrapped his head around it. On the night of Statesboro’s 2025 State of the City Address, he was presented with one of the highest honors a citizen can receive — the Key to the City. “I appreciate the recognition, but I’m still trying to figure out what kind of building I can get into with it,” he joked. But behind the humor was a deeply humbling moment for a man who’s spent nearly two decades building opportunity for others.