We had the good fortune of connecting with Cortni Agnew and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cortni, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking risks has always been integral to my journey. Ten years ago, my husband and I defied the odds by marrying after two decades of friendship, a decision that laid the foundation for our family. Originally from Chicago, I relocated to Georgia in 2016 with a vision of enhancing our quality of life. Continuing my career in sales, I ventured into technology, undergoing a transformative four-week immersive tech training program in Toronto, Canada. With newfound certifications and a hunger for success, we took the leap to secure our dream home and pursue our aspirations. I’ve navigated the challenge of prioritizing my personal talents and gifts alongside corporate success. Balancing these aspects of life can be daunting, yet crucial for personal fulfillment. Taking a leap of faith in oneself is paramount.

 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My creativity, be it writing articles, music, or digital creation is an expression of my deepest emotions and reflections, capturing moments of beauty and complexity in the world around me. What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity and storytelling through my work. I strive to evoke emotion and provoke thought, creating connections.

I am most proud of actually doing what I enjoy! Its so challenging to just do and be what you love- to return to your childlike creative space and I force myself to do it regularly because it feeds my soul.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. It has not been easy, but overcoming obstacles has made me stronger and more resilient. In the tech space we say ” fail fast”. I’ve learned to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and to persevere in the face of adversity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
overstory- a rooftop bar and tapas-style restaurant on top of the Westin Hotel

El Malo – Bar for vibey drinks and atmosphere

Marcel for caviar service

Atlanta Master Chorale at Emory University campus for an incredible musical experience

First Fridays at the High Museum for art, drinks, live music and networking

Hike Stone Mountain for a nature vibe

painted pickle for pickleball in Atlanta for athletic fun

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Black women have been instrumental in shaping my success. From my mother, who curated a childhood filled with education, art, and music, to my grandmother, a cornerstone of our family whose prayers continue to guide me, and my aunts, who are loving, ambitious, and utterly fabulous. Their hard work, elegance, and resilience have been my guiding lights

Instagram: @cortnijsays

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cortniagnew/

Other: @cortnijsays tiktok

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.