Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine

Through the years, we’ve worked with exceptional individuals who understand local challenges facing their communities, and have the passion and the vision to create opportunities where people can make healthy choices where they live, work, learn, play and pray. We’re recognizing these individuals, who have been nominated by their peers and colleagues, to showcase their commitment to making the healthy choice, the easy choice.

Since 2002, Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine has been a champion for healthy change in the City of Columbia.

“I see all the consequences that living an unhealthy life causes, and I want better for myself, my family and my community,” said Councilwoman Devine. “I know that in order to be an advocate for healthy lifestyles, I must ‘practice what I preach,’ but I have struggled with always making wise choices myself.  I know my struggle is the same as others so that helps me in being able to advocate for those I represent.”

In February 2017, Councilwoman Devine championed the adoption of the city’s Healthy Food Policy, making Columbia the first municipality in the state to adopt such a policy. The policy improves the nutritional quality of foods and beverages sold in vending machines on city property, as well as foods served in city meetings/events.

Councilwoman Devine also initiated the Ultimate Wellness Challenge with the staff at the Charles R. Drew Wellness Center. This comprehensive 12-week program challenged the citizens of Columbia to take charge of their own health, embrace healthy lifestyles, and make significant steps towards changing their lives for the better.

Councilwoman Devine currently co-chairs the City’s Let’s Move Columbia initiative with Columbia’s First Lady DeAndrea Benjamin. Together, they are spreading the message of wellness and healthy lifestyles throughout the Midlands region of South Carolina.

Councilwoman Devine is also the City of Columbia’s spokesperson for Heart Health Awareness Month and annually convenes local government, business, and neighborhood leaders to focus on heart health issues and their impact in the local community.

“Councilwoman Devine truly is a champion for creating a healthier community and workforce,” said Hannah Walters, MPH, at Eat Smart Move More South Carolina. “The city is lucky to have a leader who understands the importance of making the healthy choice the easy choice.”