PBS Atlanta CEO Wonya Lucas Works Hard at Following Her Own Path

Featuring a broad cross-section of women who have distinguished themselves across a rich variety of careers, our Portraits of Power series is a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Black Enterprise, and of black women. It’s a place for today’s businesswomen to share their own favorite images and their own stories, in their own words. Today’s portrait is public broadcasting executive Wonya Lucas.

Wonya Lucas

President & CEO, PBS Atlanta

My first job was as a ride operator at Six Flags then a cashier at Wendy’s. First real job? Working as an engineer at a plant.

My big break came when I completed the strategic plan for TNT (Turner Network Television) which led to my first CMO type of job.

I’ve had to work hardest at following my own path vs. doing the expected.

I never imagined I would work on so many amazing brands such as CNN, Discovery, OWN, and NPR.

I wish I’d learned sooner not to worry so much.

The risk I regret not taking is taking a president job at a major network, but in a small town.

If I could design my fantasy self-care day, it would be spent with my lifelong friends who love and care for me.

The potential loss of all the gains we’ve made as African Americans in this current climate keeps me up at night.

When I’m struggling, I say to myself be fearless.

I am unapologetically myself.

Portraits of Power is a yearlong series of candid insights from exceptional women leaders. It is brought to you by ADP