A Newark native, Desireè began her career in public service in 2018, joining the Baraka administration as a Press Information Officer where she was able to apply her passion for all things media by gaining the responsibility of producing digital content, TV show production for Nwk TV, managing the City of Newark’s official social media channels and co-hosting and producing Mayor Baraka’s podcast, Ras in 60.

Prior to her work as a Press Information Officer Desiree proved to be a self-starter by establishing her own independent media company shortly after completing her undergraduate studies at Rutgers University-Newark. Over time her boutique media company picked up traction and gained notoriety and a large following locally and in the New York City area.

In 2019, Desiree’s portfolio grew to include managing the City’s film permitting process. Under her leadership, throughout the pandemic, the City of Newark continued to issue permits and welcomed a growing number of film crews. To meet the increasing volume of production, due in part to the competitive NJ State film tax credit, Desireè recognized the need for cohesive coordination among city agencies. She established an interdepartmental permitting process which incorporates the participation of multiple city agencies and with the assistance of the business administrator’s staff both offices collectively introduced a digital permit application process for film/TV and city parks. Films and television shows shot in Newark during this time included The Best Man Final Chapters, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, Law & Order: Organized Crime, The Perfect Find, The Equalizer, FBI’s Most Wanted, Bros, HGTV’s House Hunters, American Sports Story: Gladiator, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, The Walking Dead and countless others.

Under her leadership of managing the Newark Office of Film and TV Desiree collaboratively hosted two successful community screenings. One of the Wu-Tang: An American Saga series which involved collaborative efforts between the Arts and Cultural Affairs Office, Newark Happening, Newark Symphony Hall and Hulu. Cast and crew members participated in a panel discussion following the screening. She also hosted a community screening which involved a panel discussion in Military Park in the summer of 23’ during the first North 2 Shore Festival where production crew members of “The Walking Dead: Dead City” attended and participated in a panel discussion.

Desireè continues to co-host and produce Mayor Baraka’s monthly podcast, Ras in 60, which launched in early 2019.

Desireè holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University. She proudly resides in Newark with her two daughters.