Rapper, actor, author and activist Common talks about Black excellence during Black History Month

Read This T-Mobile SVP's Advice for Women in STEM

How T-Mobile's Edwige Robinson is Reshaping the Tech World

True Love Valentine's Day phone personality quiz illustration

T-Mobile’s new Senior Vice President of the Central Regional Network Engineering & Operations shares her journey from Africa to America, overcoming adversity and seizing opportunity to pave a way for herself and blaze a trail for others.

tmobile-blocks/subhead

core/embed

Ask Edwige Robinson what gave her the grit to embark on a courageous career path in a field where she had no mentors and no clear path to success, and her answer may surprise you.

core/paragraph

“I love this question because it will help many people — you see, I stumbled into the tech realm a couple of decades ago.”

As someone who says she simply “stumbled into the tech realm,” Robinson certainly turned her gate into a full stride on the way to the top over her 27-year career, having occupied leadership roles in a field dominated by men, notably in one of the few executive seats available in renowned companies like Verizon Wireless, Time Warner Cable and Comcast NBC Universal.

“For more than two decades, I have had the honor of leading diverse organizations at all levels and delivered terrific products and experiences for customers around the world,” explains Robinson, who joined T-Mobile as Senior Vice President of the Central Regional Network Engineering & Operations this past October. “I realized early on in my career that leadership is not just a job for me. Leadership is my calling and a way of moving through the world that makes others want to follow. Though authentic leadership requires sacrifice, I have found tremendous joy in igniting people to uncover their gifts and blind spots so that they can reach their highest potential and have maximum impact in their roles! It is such a privilege, and I get to do it every day.”

She is the self-described bridge between “business strategy, innovation and technology execution.” A track record of excellence with a heavy focus on superior customer experience, she’s brought drastic improvement in net promoter scores and ROI to the teams she leads. Her expertise in 5G, IoT (Internet of Things) and narrowband-IoT meant to enable a wide range of new devices and services, artificial intelligence as well as machine learning, made her a seamless fit for her latest venture at <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.t-mobile.com/">T-Mobile</a>, where leading the nation in wireless 5G has been a laser focus for the brand.

Named by diversity research firm Aleria as one of the “<a href="https://aleria.tech/awesome-black-women">Awesome Black Women Everyone Should Know</a>” and lauded by the global women in STEM organization <a href="https://www.1mwis.com/profiles/Edwige-Robinson">Million STEM</a> as a <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.1mwis.com/profiles/Edwige-Robinson" target="_blank">visible role model who inspires the next generation of girls</a>, it’s clear Robinson’s impact isn’t all data points and mechanical prowess.

tmobile-blocks/pull-quote-image

A native of Ivory Coast, West Africa, who came to America in her early twenties before learning to speak English, she says being a woman, an immigrant and black meant she was a “triple minority” laying new ground for those who dreamed of careers in tech but unable to find mentors and supportive allies in such a challenging field.

“I have been committed to helping me and my family have a better life since I was 14 years old,” says Robinson. “This is why I work so hard. This is why I took the leap of faith to come to the USA — sometimes you have to be your own hero. You have to be willing to fight for yourself and others. You have to trust that you have what it takes.”

Her dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion has driven her to help organizations understand and leverage equity in that representation; all while engaging, energizing and empowering employees to excel against the challenges they face.

Here Robinson opens up about how she fell in love with STEM as a young girl, the adversity she faced, her advice to women who might not have role models they identify with in their chosen fields and why she’s most grateful for her first after-school job in America, working the graveyard shift on a motherboard manufacturing assembly line.

When did you first recognize your passion for STEM, and how did you first enter into the field? How did your upbringing in Ivory Coast influence your drive to succeed?

core/heading

My initial degree was in banking and finance. However, when I arrived in the U.S. I had to find a way to make some money while going to school. One of my professors shared with us a job ad for manufacturing. The job required you to work during the third shift, also known as the graveyard hours. Back then you had to complete a paper application, so when I arrived at the location to apply, the recruiter looked at me and said, “Why are you here?” When I told him I wanted to apply for the position, he argued that I had no experience. But, I told him I was ready to learn, and two weeks later I was working on the motherboard assembly line from 3pm to 2am daily.

I learned about AC/DC, resistors and transistors, different temperatures to test hardware, how to do audits, etc. I was the only female, but I did not care — I was able to take care of myself and also send money back to the Ivory Coast to take care of my family. It was hard to go to school full-time and work 10 hours after school, but it paid better than working in department stores. So, while I entered a field to help myself financially, I quickly felt in love with troubleshooting and uncovering different ways to get things to work. It turned out to be the best launchpad I could have ever asked for. This is why I always tell people to stay open to what life has to offer. You may be wonderfully surprised of the outcome.

I am known to have a relentless perseverance and tend to be an optimist. While the Ivory Coast is a beautiful country, it is not an easy place to live, to say the least. Growing up, we did not have much — so I learned to find joy in the little things, like a great meal. I remember growing up wearing one pair of shoes for several years. I learned that you always have a choice and sometimes your choice will demand a lot of sacrifice from you. You see, life is a game of decisions. Some decisions are more complicated than others, but ultimately, we must choose. When your aspirations are more significant than your worries, life has a way of putting you in a situation where you can only say yes to the opportunity. Sometimes in life you have to be your own hero. You have to be willing to fight for yourself and others. You have to trust that you have what it takes. From that point, the mentors and advocates will come.

Despite your impressive education and career accomplishments, you’ve said that you first and foremost draw from your experience as a black woman and immigrant to America to champion and advocate for others. Can you tell us a little more about this?

I see being the only one who looks like me or speaks like me in meetings as a tremendous privilege. So, the way I look at it is this, instead of saying I am the only one here, I say I have the privilege to show what I am made of and I get to be here — I am going to do so well, that they will have no choice but to look for more people like me. If not me, whom? Being a barrier-breaker takes courage and a lot of sacrifice, because everyone is watching to see how you will do. Some people are silently praying for you to succeed, while some are just waiting to see if you will fail. So, you have to learn to encourage yourself and keep going despite the obstacles. Why? Because everything worth having comes at a cost. You have to decide what you are willing to sacrifice. I sacrificed leaving everything I knew and left it behind for a country that I didn’t know, where I was unable to speak the language. Upon arrival, I embraced it and went out each day with a spirit of wonder and curiosity.

I started at the very bottom of the ladder working that graveyard shift, from that I went back to school and took advantage of the employer educational assistance to complete my bachelor’s and master’s. It was really hard to work full-time and raise our boys. My husband was a big help. I always reminded myself if you don’t fight for you first, who will? Life is what you make it. You get one hundred-fold what you put in.

You have been recognized as a visible role model by the global women in STEM organization <a href="https://www.1mwis.com/profiles/Edwige-Robinson">Million STEM</a> and by <a href="https://tmobile.pmail5.com/PoliteMail/default.aspx?page=F2r5WivCiEO0KMGtL4NYjQ&ref_id=jrE9ZGumX0-P_Hy6pZt1OQ">Aleria</a> as one of the “Awesome Black Women Everyone Should Know.” What about these accolades mean the most to you?

For me, being a role model for young men and women is so important. It is difficult for people to become what they can’t see. As a triple minority, I take great pride in showing that it is possible to become what you dream of in secret. I want little young black girls and young men to see that their dreams are valid, too. I feel tremendous joy when I get an email or note via <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwigeatransformationalleader/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwigeatransformationalleader/">LinkedIn</a> from women who are just entering the field. “When I see you, Edwige, I see that it’s also possible for me. If someone like you can come from another country without speaking English and reach your level, I believe that one day I too can reach and exceed it. It is not a fairytale. It can be a reality for me, too.” This is why I do what I do, this is why I can execute with excellence — there is no other way to be.

T-Mobile Newsroom

T-Mobile SVP Edwige Robinson is a self described triple minority trailblazing in the technology field.

“Sometimes You Have To Be Your Own Hero” | T-Mobile Newsroom

News

Posts

Community

“Sometimes You Have To Be Your Own Hero”

Shawna Ryan

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/nr-hero-EdwigeRobinson-2-24-21.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/svp-inspires-women-in-tech

twitter:card

twitter:creator

twitter:description

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/ntc-EdwigeRobinson-2-24-21.png

twitter:image

twitter:site

twitter:title

In celebration of Black History Month, the rapper, actor, author and activist shared his insights and experiences to help promote diverse narratives and find deeper purpose.

“Gratitude is one of the things that can keep you positive. If you think about the things that you do have and just stay in that att … I was about to say ‘attitude,’ but I didn’t want to rhyme. But, to be honest, your gratitude will change your attitude!”

Common laughed when he tried to stop himself from doing what he does best. But even when the rapper tries to downplay his talents, it seems his creative spark can’t be dimmed. Speaking via livestream to T-Mobile’s Executive Vice President of Customer Care Callie Field, as well as almost five thousand employee audience members, during the company’s virtual Talking with Trailblazers event in recognition of Black History Month, the hip-hop heavyweight’s excitement over the topic at hand was palpable through the computer screen.

“I love the thought and the mantra of ‘excellence in action,’” he said. “The more I’ve trained myself to think about keeping my mind on good things and recognizing that everything that we’ve experienced is actually there for us to be better. Excellence! In action!”

As the winner of an Academy Award and a Golden Globe in 2015 for Best Original Song in a Motion Picture for Glory, as well as numerous Grammys, the author of two memoirs admittedly knows what excellence feels like, and has dedicated himself to helping others understand its power through his social justice and advocacy work, focusing on mass incarceration, mental health and voting rights.

This Talking with Trailblazers installment is the latest in a <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/celebrating-diversity/black-history">series of companywide initiatives</a> to celebrate Black History Month and was organized with the help of the company’s Multicultural Alliance and Black Empowerment Network employee resource groups. T-Mobile also kicked off February with a <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/black-history-month-2021">$2 million investment</a> in new scholarship, recruiting and business education programs meant to continue its commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The donations focus on programs that serve students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), aspiring diverse workers in the tech and telecom industries and Black small business owners.

Common had plenty of gems of wisdom to share during the hour-long conversation, topics ranging from the importance of mental and physical health while investing in your purpose to celebrating the incredible contributions of Black writers, musicians and artists and the meaning behind the Black Lives Matter movement, and the recent work of his own nonprofit organizations the Common Ground Foundation and Imagine Justice, dedicated to leveraging the power of art to advocate for communities and fight for justice and equality.

So put on your favorite soundtrack to set the mood — May we suggest starting with the first track on this <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/66cWCIdzOlFhVSTOf5oNyC?si=5a0052157e794367">Black History Month-inspired playlist</a> created by the T-Mobile internal communications team? — and enjoy some invaluable takeaways from this important chat.

1. Gratitude will change your attitude. “Gratitude is one of the things that can keep you positive. It’s better to think about the things that you are grateful for instead of worrying about the future or living in the past. It changes your mentality, so that’s how I keep a positive outlook and surround myself with positive people and positive energy. I try not to take in things — whether it's news, food, music — that darken my energy and my spirit.”

2. Self-care is a discipline, one that trains you to maintain discipline in all areas of life. “As a young man, I really didn’t have any health awareness besides exercise. But, at a certain point, I realized that certain things weren’t good for my life. I started caring more and focusing more towards taking care of myself from a diet perspective. Applying discipline to one area of my life helped me feel more powerful. I felt like I had more control of myself. ‘Oh, I have the power to not do these things. Instead, I can use that power to create these other things.’ I recognized that going into the studio after I stopped eating certain things, my voice was clearer. Now I eat a healthier diet. I drink water. I work out. I go into the booth and make sure I do vocal exercises. I pay attention. I strive for a lifestyle of wanting to love myself and a lifestyle of wellness. If you take care of yourself, it shows up in every other aspect of your life, no matter what you’re doing.”

3. The head holds the secret to what the heart wants — mental health is as vital as physical health. “We all go through some stuff. Everybody. I don’t care how divine, how great, talented, successful, whatever attributes you have that are blessings and incredible. You still go through things. You still go through what we feel as human beings. It shows up in fears, shows up as ways that we are afraid to get close to the other individuals, or ways that we actually channel our own pain on to other individuals or even onto ourselves. Ways that we are not able to love ourselves as much. Sometimes we just don't know the reason why some of these things are happening. Sometimes we know we are doing it and still don’t know why we want to do it. My goal is to be the best human being, the best child of God, I can be, every day. That entails not only the physical things, but the mental and emotional. In fact, I don't care how physically well you are. If you’re not nurturing your mental wellness, you will never live to your full capacity and live a full, happy life. So, I made a decision when I saw myself repeating certain things. After all the great books that I’ve read, and the self-help books, and still continuing to build in my spirituality, I felt like one of the avenues to explore was therapy. If you have something going on physically, you go to the doctor. So why not have that type of support for your mental well-being? It’s proven to be one of the greatest gifts for me in this lifetime.”

4. Live a life of purpose, each and every day. "I asked myself this question the other day: If I never had to worry about money again, what things would I still do? I would still create music. I would act. I would be doing activism work. Some things within your purpose will end up being your profession, and you can express your purpose through your profession — and some won't. But things that you love to do are still in your purpose, your life’s work. The great Kahlil Gibran wrote in the book The Prophet, “Work is love made visible.” Work is love made visible. You want to make sure that you’re doing things that are aligned in that purpose. And it takes us time to discover what those things are. Write it down, think about it. What you’re doing every day, is that falling under your purpose in some way? How are you putting some time in your day towards your purpose? It’s okay if you don’t know it at this moment, but it is important to put attention and focus into finding it.”

5. Celebrate Black culture by continuing to grow its areas of prominence and influence. “Yes. I'm a Black artist and I love Black artists. I love celebrating Black art, whether it’s Amanda Gorman, or whether it’s this bass player and singer named <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thundercat_(musician)" target="_blank">Thundercat</a>. Whether it’s <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.isaiahsharkey.com/" target="_blank">Isaiah Sharkey</a> or <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SZA_(singer)" target="_blank">SZA</a>. It could be <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://lsimpsonstudio.com/" target="_blank">Lorna Simpson</a>, who’s a visual artist, or <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahershala_Ali" target="_blank">Mahershala Ali</a> or <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erykah_Badu" target="_blank">Erykah Badu</a>. I celebrate Black art, and it’s not a labor to celebrate it, because it’s such beautiful work and incredible work, and work that has changed the world. It has influenced the world and it continues to evolve. Celebrating Black excellence doesn’t downgrade or diss anyone else. It’s not a slight to anyone, it's not putting any other nationality or culture down. It’s just celebrating our culture and who we’ve been in this world. It’s important that we do that. It’s important that we celebrate ourselves as individuals and celebrate where we come from. It’s very important to acknowledge those things. And not only from the artist perspective, let’s make sure we continue to have Black people and other minority groups in places of decision-making in the corporate world, too.”

In celebration of Black History Month, rapper, actor, author and activist Common shared his insights on excellence in action.

5 Tips To a “Common” Sense Approach | T-Mobile Newsroom

5 Tips To a “Common” Sense Approach

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/nr-hero-TWT-Recap-common-2-24-21-2.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/5-tips-to-a-common-sense-approach

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/ntc-TWT-Recap-common-2-24-21-1.png

Our teams have been able to make great progress restoring our network following last week’s winter storms and we have returned to normal service levels.

As always, we are here for our customers and encourage them to reach out to our Team of Experts if they need anything. You can call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset if you need assistance or have questions about your account or service, we will be happy to help. If you need to visit us, please note that some T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile stores in affected areas may be closed or are on reduced hours, please reach out to your local <a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ft-mobile.com%2Fstore-locator&data=04%7C01%7CJanielle.GoGuasch%40T-Mobile.com%7Cdd135d6b3cfd4b82f12508d8d6ac1a1f%7Cbe0f980bdd994b19bd7bbc71a09b026c%7C0%7C0%7C637495381943693484%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=%2FhIO6STX25t8Jgb3AvhqHqVu9sQ9kFhodbP%2F0D6aNik%3D&reserved=0">store</a> to confirm they are open.

This will be our last update on this event.

Network Our network status in Texas has improved significantly and we are close to full restoration of affected sites. We are also seeing improvements in West Virginia and Tennessee and will continue our round the clock efforts to restore the remaining small amount of sites still affected.

Support for Customers in Texas A reminder that through Saturday, 2/20 T-Mobile is providing unlimited talk, text and data for T-Mobile, Sprint and Metro by T-Mobile customers in Texas who are not already on unlimited plans.

The majority of our T-Mobile and Sprint customers are already on plans offering unlimited talk, text and data. If you are a customer and need assistance or have questions about your account or service, please call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset and we will be happy to help.

Retail Some T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile stores in affected areas may be closed or on reduced hours. As a reminder, if you need to visit us, please reach out to your <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/store-locator">local store</a> to confirm they are open. You can also call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset if you need assistance or have questions about your account or service and we will be happy to help.

We continue to closely monitor Winter Storm Viola and its effects on our network and communities as it bares down across the South East of the country, from Texas to the Atlantic coast. 

For customers in areas affected by Winter Storm Uri, the majority of network impacts continue in Texas, specifically around Dallas, Houston and Austin. We’ve been able to continue getting some sites back online and will continue to work around the clock as safety conditions permit.

Support for Customers in Texas We understand that staying connected is key in times like these. Through Saturday, 2/20 T-Mobile is providing unlimited talk, text and data for T-Mobile, Sprint and Metro by T-Mobile customers in Texas who are not already on unlimited plans.

As a reminder, the majority of our T-Mobile and Sprint customers are already on plans offering unlimited talk, text and data. If you are a customer and need assistance or have questions about your account or service, please call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset and we will be happy to help.

Retail A number of our stores remain closed or on reduced hours. As a reminder, if you need to visit us, please reach out to your local store to confirm they are open.

As winter storm conditions persist in different regions across the U.S., we continue to keep a close eye on the situation. We are working closely with local authorities to gain safe access to impacted markets and continue to work around the clock on restoration efforts.

Our teams are also closely tracking and preparing for a second severe storm –Winter Storm Viola– which could have widespread impacts across multiple states in the Mid-South.

We continue to see the majority of network impacts in Texas. While we still have a number of sites down in the Dallas, Houston and Austin markets due to power outages caused by severe snow and ice conditions, we’ve been able to get some sites back online and running. Our teams are closely monitoring road conditions, and once it is safe to do so, will deploy to impacted areas.

As severe winter weather continues to impact communities, there are a few steps that can be taken to help stay safe and connected when it matters most. We recommend the following:

core/list

A number of our stores remain closed or on reduced hours. As a reminder, if you need to visit us, please reach out to your <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/store-locator">local store</a> to confirm they are open. You can also call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset if you need assistance or have questions about your account or service and we will be happy to help.

We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. This afternoon, we are seeing restoration progress in the Austin market, with some sites coming back online. Our teams will continue to work around the clock to restore further in markets impacted by winter storm conditions.

More information on our response

Over the coming days, you can stay up to date on our response and recovery efforts via the following channels:

Over the weekend and continuing today, severe weather is impacting multiple regions of the country with snow and ice conditions that has lead to loss of power in some areas.

As a result, we are currently experiencing network impacts in the Austin, San Antonio and Rio Grande Valley areas of Texas, as well as parts of Oregon.

Our teams are working with local utility and transport partners as safety conditions allow.

If your mobile service is interrupted or spotty, we recommend you try the following:

We know staying connected is key in times like these. As a reminder, the majority of T-Mobile and Sprint customers are on plans offering unlimited talk, text and data.

Over the coming days, a number of our stores may be closed due to power impacts. If you need to visit us, please reach out to your <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/store-locator">local store</a> to confirm they are open. You can also call 611 or 1-800-937-8997 from your handset if you need assistance or have questions about your account or service and we will be happy to help.

*During congestion, customers using >50GB/mo. and Essentials customers may notice lower speeds than other customers due to data prioritization. Metro by T-Mobile customers using >35GB/mo. may notice reduced speeds and Metro customers may notice reduced speeds vs. T-Mobile due to prioritization. 

In recent days, multiple regions of the country experienced severe winter weather including snow and ice conditions, causing widespread loss of power across impacted areas. T-Mobile teams respond to help keep our customers connected.

T-Mobile Responds to Winter Storms | T-Mobile Newsroom

T-Mobile Responds to Winter Storms

AlexandraFidler

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2020/06/nr-generic-Toggle-T.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/t-mobile-winter-storms-response

Nationwide Contest Offers Youth with Innovative Ideas Around Creating Connected, Sustainable and Informed Communities Opportunity to Receive Seed Funding and Mentorship 

What’s the news: T-Mobile, the T-Mobile Foundation and Ashoka are launching the third Changemaker Challenge. Today through April 8, youth ages 13 to 18 can apply for the opportunity to receive seed funding and one of 15 spots at the Changemaker Lab at T-Mobile HQ later this year to support their innovative ideas focused on Technology, the Environment or Education.  Over the program’s three years, T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation will have invested nearly $1M in Changemaker Challenge projects and mentorship opportunities.

Why it matters: We want to help focus all the talk about urgent societal and global challenges on finding solutions -- and we know America’s youth are up to the challenge to put fresh thinking behind big problems and come up with big ideas that will drive change! With a little help in the form of funding and mentorship, innovative ideas can become extraordinary movements. Now is an amazing time to be a young changemaker!

Who it’s for: Disruptors, trailblazers and entrepreneurs between the ages of 13 to 18 located in the U.S. and Puerto Rico who have bold ideas about how to change their communities and society for good…and the parents, mentors and educators who support them every step of the way!

Bellevue, Wash. – February 11, 2021 – The third <a href="http://t-mobile.com/changemaker">Changemaker Challenge</a>, a nationwide contest that gives trailblazing young leaders the opportunity to take their ideas on how to build more connected, sustainable and informed communities to the next level, launched today by T-Mobile, the T-Mobile Foundation and <a href="https://ashoka-usa.org/">Ashoka</a>. Now through April 8, 2021, youth ages 13 to 18 with bold ideas focused on Technology, the Environment or Education can enter the challenge. T-Mobile leaders will select 15 winners to receive up to $15,000 in seed funding and the opportunity to participate in the three-day Changemaker Lab later this year. Including this third year of support, T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation have invested nearly $1M in seed funding and mentorship for the changemakers.

“T-Mobile knows a thing or two about disruption and affecting change – and that’s why we can’t wait to once again help these forward-thinking youth grow their innovative, amazing ideas through our third Changemaker Challenge,” said T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert. “We can all take inspiration from today’s youth. They are living and breathing so many of the challenges our society is facing right this moment, but they’ve got big ideas for how we can be better. With a little support, I know these young, passionate changemakers will do amazing things to positively impact their communities for years to come.”

T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation are once again partnering with Ashoka, a global organization that believes in a world where everyone is a changemaker. They have over 40 years building the field of social entrepreneurs and over 20 years of experience supporting young changemakers and their social ventures.

“At Ashoka, we know young people need powerful learning experiences to build empathy, find their purpose, and take the lead,” said Bill Drayton, founder and CEO of Ashoka. “Ashoka is proud to support T-Mobile’s Changemaker Challenge, pairing leaders in the tech industry with leading youth changemakers—a winning combination to changing the world for good.”

An amazing 770 teams entered the two previous Changemaker Challenges in 2018 and 2019. Projects integrating everything from apps to robots have been focused on solutions around topics such as mental health, the collapse of bee colonies, flood warning systems and gun violence prevention. At the February 2020 Changemaker Lab, Mike Sievert <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/changemaker-challenge-2019-winner">awarded</a> each of the <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/changemaker-challenge-category-winners">three category winners</a> $10,000 and offered support via one-on-one meetings with T-Mobile leaders and Ashoka experts.

“The T-Mobile Changemaker Challenge was truly a once in a lifetime experience for me,” said Kevin Malaekeh, co-founder and president of <a href="https://www.ycacyouth.org/">Youth Climate Action Coalition</a>, a coalition designed to give schools the tools they need to become more sustainable and the 2019 Changemaker Challenge grand prize winner. “It was inspiring to be surrounded by youth so passionate about what they do. I met some lifelong friends, and we’ve even started our own venture together after the challenge called Project New Normal. The seed money helped my organization secure partnerships with influencers that have helped us grow our social media audience to over 10,000 and reach out to 1.5 million people across the world.”

Individuals and teams ready to supercharge their game-changing ideas can visit the contest <a href="https://challenges.changemakers.com/challenge/tmochangemaker2021">website</a> to learn everything they need to know about the 2021 Changemaker Challenge.

About T-Mobile T-Mobile U.S. Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Sprint. For more information please visit: <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/">https://www.t-mobile.com</a>.

About T-Mobile Foundation The T-Mobile Foundation is committed to changing the world for good. The Foundation advances positive change in our communities by supporting causes that focus on youth development, and by providing opportunities for T-Mobile employees to engage in causes that benefit the communities where they live and work. The T-Mobile Foundation, created and funded by T-Mobile US, Inc., is recognized by the IRS as a Section 501(c)(3) private foundation.

Nationwide Contest Offers Youth with Innovative Ideas Around Creating Connected, Sustainable and Informed Communities Opportunity to Receive Seed Funding and Mentorship

Third Changemaker Challenge Launches Today; T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation to Fund Big Ideas from Young Trailblazers | T-Mobile Newsroom

Third Changemaker Challenge Launches Today; T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation to Fund Big Ideas from Young Trailblazers

lisabelot

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/nr-hero-changemakerchallenge.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/changemaker-challenge-2021

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/ntc-changemakerchallenge.png

Whether you’re newly single, long-coupled or duly committed to swiping right, there’s still that one true significant other in your life — your phone! In honor of Valentine’s Day, we look at the many forms that relationship can take. Take our quiz to see which best describes yours!

carbon-fields/wp-viral-quiz

Hey, looking to break up with your carrier this Valentine's Day, and finally find your One True Love? Switching to T-Mobile could be the answer. Check our dating profile <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/resources/how-to-join-us">here</a>.

To share your relationship type with a friend or loved one, <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/valentines-day-phone-relationship-quiz#download" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/valentines-day-phone-relationship-quiz#download">click here</a> or go to "Downloadable Media Assets" above and text away! Happy Valentine's Day!

core/image

tmobile-blocks/downloadable-assets

Don't Hang Up! Valentine's Day phone personality quiz illustration

shhh silent mode on Valentine's Day phone personality quiz illustration

ILY (sometimes) Valentine's Day phone personality quiz illustration

99% charged Valentine's Day phone personality quiz illustration

Which persona best describes your relationshop with your phone? Take our Valetine's Day quiz to find out!

Quiz: What Type of Relationship Do You Have with Your Phone? | T-Mobile Newsroom

Quiz: What Type of Relationship Do You Have with Your Phone?

JasonAdams

Which persona best describes your relationshop with your phone? Take our Valetine&#039;s Day quiz to find out!

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/nr-hero-Valentines-02-08-21.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/valentines-day-phone-relationship-quiz

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/ntc-Valentines-02-08-21.png

The Un-carrier continues its commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by kicking off a $2 million investment in new scholarship, recruiting and business education programs

What’s the news: Inspired by advocates who created pathways to prosperity for Black Americans, T-Mobile is announcing three new programs that will give students, tech professionals and business owners access to valuable financial, educational and career-development resources: Magenta Scholars, the NextTech Diversity Program and Magenta Edge. Why it matters: Change happens when everyone has equitable access to resources, and these three programs will provide just that for Black Americans. Stats tell the story of opportunity: Students with financial support graduate at twice the rate of Black students overall. Black workers with access to career training and resources can break barriers in a network-infrastructure workforce that currently is comprised of just 10% Black technicians. Black-owned businesses will benefit from access to free workshops and advice from experts, particularly as they have been twice as likely to close permanently than white-owned businesses because of the economic impacts of COVID-19. Who it’s for: Students at historically Black colleges and universities, aspiring diverse workers in the tech and telecom industries and Black small business owners — and allies who support them.

Bellevue, Wash. — Feb. 8, 2021 —This Black History Month, T-Mobile is introducing three innovative programs with the goal of helping create more opportunities for Black communities across the nation. The initiatives — Magenta Scholars, the NextTech Diversity Program and Magenta Edge — will provide resources and support to Black students, tech workers and business owners as they build their education, careers and livelihoods. These educational and professional development programs are the Un-carrier’s latest actions to advance diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) within T-Mobile and beyond.

“During Black History Month, T-Mobile is taking inspiration from the legacies of Black leaders as we continue doing our part to advance equity across the country,” said Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile. “The Un-carrier has long stood for diversity, equity and inclusion to better serve our customers, improve how we work together and advance our communities. With these new programs, we hope to continue to do our part in creating meaningful opportunities for Black Americans across the country and provide resources they need as they build their own legacies.”

Today’s students are tomorrow’s workforce, and by investing in their journeys T-Mobile is investing in America’s future. T-Mobile’s Magenta Scholars program will donate $500,000 to create 18 scholarships for students attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The program is a partnership with the <a href="https://www.tmcf.org/">Thurgood Marshall College Fund</a>, which boasts an impressive 80-90% graduation rate among its scholars — more than double the national graduation rate for Black students overall. Scholarship recipients will also have an opportunity to join the Un-carrier's signature summer internship program and receive mentorship and professional development opportunities. The application period opens Feb. 18 and scholarships will be awarded in the fall of 2021.

Additionally, on Feb. 9, the T-Mobile Tuesdays app will give T-Mobile customers a way to support the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. For every customer that clicks on the donation option in the app, T-Mobile will donate $1 to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (up to $500,000; minimum of $250,000), contributing to gap scholarships that help students meet outstanding financial obligations in order to graduate.

NextTech Diversity Program

Black technicians make up just 10% of the telecom network-infrastructure field, an industry with tens of thousands of open positions that offer the potential for long-term, lucrative careers to those with applicable skills and certification. Over the next five years the NextTech Diversity Program aims to provide career training and placement for thousands of underrepresented candidates to take on roles as 5G network technicians. The program kicks off with nearly $1 million in funding, starting with $750,000 in initial seed funding from T-Mobile and another $150,000 from other telecommunications partners. Telecom trade school <a href="https://www.mylearningalliance.com/">The Learning Alliance</a> will oversee recruitment, training, certification and job placement of candidates as they create long-term careers in roles such as tower climber, 5G small cell and field tech. Sixty candidates will join the program in 2021, and T-Mobile is inviting all national and regional telecom partners to contract directly with The Learning Alliance to sponsor even more candidates.

Black-owned small businesses in the U.S. have suffered exponentially during the COVID-19 crisis and are about twice as likely to close their doors permanently compared to other businesses. A primary driver for this disparity is a longstanding, systemic lack of access to resources and capital, including difficulty getting business loans. Magenta Edge offers all entrepreneurs expert advice and insight on how to navigate these historically difficult times through the lens of Black-owned small business owners and their stories. Magenta Edge provides <a href="https://events.tfb.t-mobile.com/MagentaEdge?icid=TFB_TMO_P_TFBMGTAEDG_BKNKHKTFUHFODOSMR23410&utm_content=WrkshpHub&utm_medium=PR&utm_source=PR&utm_campaign=TFBMGTAEDG">free educational programming</a> on subjects such as best practices for entrepreneurs while addressing systemic barriers to Black small-business success. This is just the initial phase of Magenta Edge, which will expand to supply additional resources in the coming years.

Visit <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/business/magenta-edge?cmpid=TFB_PR_U_TFBMGTAEDG_2SO3OKOS6H42IJDPB62836">Magenta Edge</a> for updates on programming, new content and small-business support. Virtual workshops begin Feb. 11 and registration is now open.

These new programs are pieces of T-Mobile’s broader work to further diversity, equity and inclusion among the company’s customers, employees and communities it serves.

Learn more about how T-Mobile is celebrating Black History <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/celebrating-diversity/black-history">here</a>.

About T-Mobile T-Mobile U.S. Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Sprint. For more information please visit: <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com">https://www.t-mobile.com</a>.

During Black History Month, T-Mobile Launches Programs Focused on Driving Opportunity for Students, Tech Workers and Business Owners | T-Mobile Newsroom

During Black History Month, T-Mobile Launches Programs Focused on Driving Opportunity for Students, Tech Workers and Business Owners

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/02/nr-article-BHM-02-04-21.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/black-history-month-2021

An identity theft expert explains how scammers have changed their tactics to try and evade safeguards and exploit new anxieties of vaccination eligibility during the pandemic, all while gearing up for another profitable tax season.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to barrel on, some comfort has been offered by the two vaccinations showing astounding efficacy rates that were recently approved by the FDA, and have started to slowly find their way into the arms of more and more Americans. Unfortunately, that rollout could have scammers sharpening their claws to prey on the fears and anxieties plaguing many, and ultimately taking advantage of them.

“I’m just speculating here what they’re going to be using, but with the vaccine there will be scam calls targeting people about getting on the vaccination list,” identity theft security expert Carrie Kerskie <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/hindsight-2020">recently told T-Mobile Stories</a>, warning of scammers who were already positioning themselves to pounce on those most vulnerable in society during the pandemic. “Or if there are any kind of reports out saying that there’s going to be a shortage or delay, then it might be, ‘Hey, we can get you on the wait list, or get a priority ticket where you pay us X amount of dollars and you could get moved to the top of the line,’ or all different types of scams revolving around the vaccine.”

Kerskie, who is the president of leading identity theft restoration firm the Kerskie Group, author of Your Public Identity: Because Nothing Is Private Anymore and host of a <a href="https://carriekerskie.libsyn.com/">podcast</a> aimed at helping consumers keep themselves safe from scammers, added that the scams likely won’t be limited to the shots themselves being administered, but even the uncertainty in and around those that aren’t. “Another thing that I’ve been hearing various reports about is that the airlines are going to maybe require proof of vaccine before you’re allowed to fly,” she additionally offered. “I haven’t heard anything finalized yet, but again, when people put that out there, it gets people’s minds thinking. So, the bad guys might offer a service where if you don’t have your vaccine, they’ll print out a paper that says you do for X amount of dollars. Any time there’s anything new and it’s involving the masses, the bad guys find a way to incorporate it into their schemes.”

Kerskie, who previously offered her expertise about how tools like <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/how-to-avoid-phone-scams-during-covid-19">T-Mobile’s Scam Shield and other precautions can help stop fraudsters in their tracks</a>, said this pandemic illuminates just how savvy scammers are when adapting their messaging to fit whatever the current climate of confusion and vulnerability may be.

“I do foresee there’s going to be more of smishing messages” — the text equivalent of the now age-old phishing email — “especially revolving around the vaccine, around testing, around contact tracing, and around the classic IRS stuff, like checking the status of your tax refund.”

Ah, yes. Your tax refund. With tax season also upon us, scammers are once again at the ready to rev up their annual attempts to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts">trick individuals, businesses, payroll and tax professionals</a>. (It’s of course important to reiterate that the IRS will never make contact through emails, social media or text messages — and a government agency will never call you asking for money <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/how-to-protect-yourself-and-loved-ones-from-covid-19-phone-scams">without first sending requests via mail</a>.)

The IRS updates <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/national-tax-security-awareness-week-opens-with-warnings-to-all-taxpayers-and-tax-professionals-as-holidays-2021-tax-season-approach">helpful tips</a> about ways to remain vigilant against scammers during tax season, but when it comes to phone scams, Kerske and her colleagues have already <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/hindsight-2020">re-evaluated certain safety protocols</a>.

“Definitely for text messages, do not click on any links and do not reply,” Kerske said. “Don't even type the word S-T-O-P. We used to tell people to type that, and that would supposedly stop the messages, definitely for legitimate companies. When you do it to a scammer, you’re telling them there’s a live person at the end of this number who responds to text messages. So, don’t even do that. And the same thing with a phone call. If you didn’t initiate it and they’re calling you out of the blue, hang up. If the caller starts being aggressive or says, ‘You have to do this right now!’ hang up. I promise you it’s a scam. The quick little thing I tell people, no matter what it is, whether it’s an email, a text message, a phone call — validate or eliminate. That’s all you got to do. If you can’t validate it, eliminate it.”

Below, Kerskie explains how fraudsters commonly fake federal agency calls to scam people.

Media Contacts

tmobile-blocks/media-contact

The pandemic illuminates just how savvy scammers are when adapting their messaging to fit whatever the current climate of confusion and vulnerability may be.

Security Alert! Now Entering Vaccination Scammer Nation | T-Mobile Newsroom

Security Alert! Now Entering Vaccination Scammer Nation

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/01/nr-hero-Security-Alert-Vaccine-Scam-1-21-21.png

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/vaccination-and-tax-scams

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2021/01/ntc-Security-Alert-Vaccine-Scam-1-21-21.png

This year, like everything else, resolutions are looking different — thankfully the year behind has offered us a blueprint for the year ahead.

Last year around this time, we at T-Mobile Stories were thinking about our New Year’s resolutions. Heck, we even offered up “<a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/devices/5-ways-your-device-can-help-you-keep-your-2020-resolutions">5 Ways Your Device Can Help You Keep Your 2020 Resolutions</a>” (There’s still some pretty solid advice there, even a few tips we didn’t know we’d need just a couple months later. “Do Not Disturb” mode, anyone?)

Then everything went sideways, and then some. So, after a really full year of all of us having to be so gosh darn resolute, months of adjusting and adapting like never before, we’re kicking off 2021 focused not on what to give up, but what to keep.

From mobile mindfulness to work-from-home strategies, we've gathered the best advice from 2020 to help us navigate 2021.

Hashtag it loud and hashtag it proud: #HindsightIs2020

Phone Scams and How to Avoid Them

In a year where our sign-off changed from “Yours Truly” to “Stay Safe,” it’s no surprise that keeping the devices that became our lifelines away from harm was a point of focus. (No coincidence either that <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/how-to-avoid-phone-scams-during-covid-19">T-Mobile’s Scam Shield</a> suite of anti-fraud safeguards was rolled out.)

As with any crisis, scammers were hoping to take advantage of those left vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Losses due to coronavirus scams <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/how-to-avoid-phone-scams-during-covid-19">increased 70%</a> in May and June alone. By October, Americans had already <a href="https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/93762-covid-19-related-scams-have-cost-americans-more-than-160-million" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/93762-covid-19-related-scams-have-cost-americans-more-than-160-million">lost over $160 million</a> as a result.

"Bad guys always use fear and intimidation," identity theft protection pro Carrie Kerskie <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/how-to-avoid-phone-scams-during-covid-19">told us in 2020</a>, offering tips on how to avoid phone scams during the pandemic. "Those are the two big factors in their scams. Right now, everyone is on high alert. People are scared about COVID because there is a lot of unknown. We haven’t been dealing with COVID that long, and there’s a lot of confusion out there and people are scared. We’re seeing so many smishing texts, which are quickly replacing phishing emails. I know for myself, not long ago I would get maybe one every six months. I’m getting two a day now."

While keeping vigilant in the same way is key for 2021, she says now, the types of scams we already need to be looking out for are anything but the same.

Oh, and since we are on the topic of keeping our devices safe, it only makes sense to also revisit the expert advice we received when it comes to smartphone hygiene. While those virulent phone scammers plied their dirty tricks, T-Mobile Stories offered <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/how-to-clean-up-your-device-hygiene" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/how-to-clean-up-your-device-hygiene">tips for keeping your device clean</a> as well: <a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/do-you-clean-your-phone-now-how-coronavirus-has-changed-us-or-not/">mid-year polls</a> showed that thanks to advice like the early March <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/how-to-clean-up-your-device-hygiene" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/how-to-clean-up-your-device-hygiene">“Keep It Clean: How to Up Your Device Hygiene”</a> PSA, more than twice as many people were regularly cleaning their phones compared to just prior to the pandemic.

Working Out How Best To Work — and Work Out — From Home

Going from the big ball drop in Times Square in the most epic of crowds to being asked by the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/personal-social-activities.html">CDC</a> to keep a six-foot distance from anyone you meet was a monumental about-face in a short amount of time. That’s especially true for those of us who have spent their entire careers in busy offices or other indoor work environments five days a week.

This is why we <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/7-pro-tips-to-make-working-from-home-work" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/7-pro-tips-to-make-working-from-home-work">pulled together a passel of work-from-home experts</a> to help guide those of us feeling a little WTF about WFH. (Not to mention settling the very pandemic work-from-home question: <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/7-pro-tips-to-make-working-from-home-work">"Pants or No Pants?"</a>)

While the first half of 2020 was spent experimenting on ways to make the work from home method actually work for us, many workplace experts say it’s time to focus on a new area of improvement.

"By 2025, a predicted 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely — an 87% increase from pre-pandemic levels," T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/un-carrier/ceo-mike-sievert-2021-the-year-ahead">wrote in a year-end article</a>. "I have become a believer in home/office hybrid work — something I didn’t see coming just a year ago. I think it all starts by establishing clear communication strategies, empowering employees to own their work processes, and letting them follow through and deliver. Technology can be the catalyst for this change, and it has been all year long."

According to Dr. Leonard Lang, founder of <a href="https://beardavenue.com/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://beardavenue.com/">Beard Avenue Coaching</a>, reports and surveys show that those fortunate enough to work from home would continue working remotely if given the choice. The catch is that working from home can also lead to trouble establishing work boundaries, a decrease in motivation and feelings of isolation.

“Make time for social touch points,” says Dr. Lang. “Something to make up for lack of informal time in person with breaks and pre- and post-meeting schmoozing and joking and catching up.”

Women’s leadership advocate and workplace expert Maxie McCoy, who has spent an entire decade working from home, <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/expert-maxie-mccoy-on-how-work-will-never-be-the-same">gave us great tips</a> for domesticated corporate success.

When we checked back in to see if she noticed any particular areas still giving employees trouble, she said it was creating boundaries that prevented one's home office from becoming a home that’s also always an office.

“Just because we're working from home, doesn't mean that being home should equal working,” says McCoy. “Boundaries are perhaps harder and even more important than ever. Close the laptop and put it out of site during a set hour. Sign out of work emails on your phone at a certain time each day. Make small choices that allow you to disconnect even if you haven't changed your surroundings."

Seems simple, but she says she’s <a href="https://maxiemccoy.com/2020/10/work-on-the-go-without-destroying-your-relationships-tmobile/">had to reiterate it throughout 2020</a> in order to help employees make it a lasting healthy habit.

Speaking of healthy habits, at-home fitness became big business in 2020. With Peloton bikes <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/02/12/how-peloton-exercise-bikes-and-streaming-gained-a-cult-following.html">getting purchased</a> at a pace that would make your heart rate jealous, people were looking for ways to supplement their gym routines with the help of virtual classes and online trainers. (Hard to even remember it was only a year ago we were so worried about the <a href="https://www.today.com/news/peloton-actress-monica-ruiz-weighs-controversy-honestly-i-think-it-t169894" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.today.com/news/peloton-actress-monica-ruiz-weighs-controversy-honestly-i-think-it-t169894">Peloton lady</a>!)

Community

“Sometimes You Have To Be Your Own Hero”

5 Tips To a “Common” Sense Approach

T‑Mobile Responds to Winter Storms

Third Changemaker Challenge Launches Today; T‑Mobile and the T‑Mobile Foundation to Fund Big Ideas from Young Trailblazers

Quiz: What Type of Relationship Do You Have with Your Phone?

During Black History Month, T‑Mobile Launches Programs Focused on Driving Opportunity for Students, Tech Workers and Business Owners

Security Alert! Now Entering Vaccination Scammer Nation

Hindsight Is 2020

WFB (Bus), Anyone? T‑Mobile Turns Red Rose Transit Buses into Free Wi‑Fi Hubs for Lancaster, PA Riders

New Year, New You: “Biggest Loser” Star Bob Harper’s Tips for Fighting Fatigue and Prioritizing Wellness

T‑Mobile’s Sustainability Efforts Make the Grade: Un‑carrier Lands on Prestigious CDP 2020 ‘A List’

Women and Working from Home: How To Prevent Downshifting