top of page
Who is she?

Take the steps

1234.png

"Your job is to reverse/unlock the chains. How do you do this? Dare to do the opposite of those that have come before you. Dare to stop the negative cycles of your family bloodline."

At age 13 Tameka was placed into her first temporary group home in Rockland County, NY. Then 8 years later aged out at 21. Her ultimate goal is to eradicate the harsh statistics of the foster care community, and to ensure that current and former foster youth can thrive while coping with the trials and tribulations of life.  To learn the details of her life story, click here to purchase your first copy of this inspiring story, and to learn how you can keep yourself on the path of success as a former foster youth.

​

Tameka Mclean is the Founder and CEO of Poppy Muse Inc. (501c3 foster care agency). She is passionate about making a change in the foster care system and eventually, the world. Amidst all of life’s challenges, she obtained a Degree in Computer Applications Management, and is also an alumna of LIM (Laboratory Institute of Merchandising). Tameka along with the support of her community and team are doing the work to help both current, and former foster youth thrive no matter their background or life challenges.

​

SHE ADDS VALUE

​

One would ask "how does this young woman and her story add any value"? With her story and success as a former foster youth, she has the ability to create a clear view and feeling of what having heart, the ability to persevere, tenacity and determination could get you as a former foster. To sum it up, the value is in the vision and drive of someone that shares a relatable testimony to those she serves daily.  Audiences, onlookers and youth will undoubtedly have the ability to connect and takeaway life altering steps that will aid in a better way of living.

 

​

intro
Speaking

 A familiar face

An underdog who is paving the way for those that strive to make it in a world that's unfamiliar, and many times, unaccepting of them. 

​

Her past trauma and life experiences are familar to individuals that have come from underprivileged backgrounds.

​

See the face and hear the voice of a victor that covers the below topics:

Empowerment, Health & Wellness, Spiritual, Parenting (Foster parent and child), Entrepreneurship, Career

​

​

​

main (1)_edited.jpg

Christmas 2023

Speaking at a youth shelter on Christmas day

In her talks Tameka showcases her wisdom, personal experience and healthy survival tactics that placed her on a path of healing and sustainability. She has a gift of speaking to the minds and hearts of those that have worked with or experienced life in underdeveloped/underserved communities. 

Workshop 2022

Workshop at local agency

 She has the ability to help professionals of foster care agencies, colleges, corporations, community resource centers etc., understand the mindset and behavioral barriers of their constituents. She gives constructive advice and pointers on how one can transition from failing to winning while becoming self-sufficient after the storm.

pic1 (1)_edited.jpg

featured podcasts

thumbnail_Y Pod Reels.jpg

Listen Here

In this episode, we have a very special guest: entrepreneur and foster youth advocate Tameka Mclean. Tameka has an incredible story of resilience and growth. She's here not just to share her own experiences but to demystify the complex foster care system so those who are most vulnerable to it can get the help they need.
fit.jpg

Listen Here

Tameka shares her story and tips on how she was capable of sustaining herself while having to endure the weight of a heavy load (trials, tribulations, turmoil, and trauma). 

Book Deets

11 Steps to Self-Sufficiency

Take Action by Taking the Steps

"Grab hold of your life by keeping your spirit intact. It is not just important, it is necessary. Consider it a survival tactic."

11 Steps to Self-Sufficiency is a book that has a focus on guiding foster care youth and young adults toward an adulthood of self-sufficiency. Ms. Mclean shares her story and tips on how she was capable of sustaining herself while having to endure the weight of a heavy load (trials, tribulations, turmoil, and trauma).

 

These 11 steps are not in chronological order. The idea is to call on these methods whenever you see fit. This book is a first step in finding ways to heal yourself while working toward a place of self-love, self-acceptance and SELF-SUFFICIENCY! 

A lifelong guide

imageedit_63_4225905324.png

This book does an incredible job of highlighting both the beauties and challenges of life, providing a platform for those most in need of support. You can tell Tameka truly lays her heart out on each page!

​

- Gianna Rettino

Communications/Public Relations Pro

Paperback & Kindle

"This is truly a beautiful work that comes from deep within and I can feel it and all her love for helping those who've gone through similar situations!"

​

- Savanna Aiello

Youth Yoga Instructor

Reader Reviews

"I love this book it’s like years of therapy without the huge bill. I cry over the chapter about releasing and forgiving, understanding its not for them but for me. This book is not just therapy but it helps you to look at yourself and evaluate your life, to make changes , to be a better you. This book is all about self love and being a champion and a cheerleader for yourself. This is awesome Tameka, you are giving a voice to so many who needs it."

​

 

- Rodia Nicaisse

Teacher (Early Childhood)

" Very Clear, I like the reinforcement with the chapter exercises. Loved It!"

- Pauline Parkes, LCSW-R

Social Worker & Therapist

Contact

Have an inquiry?

Thanks for submitting!

Get in Touch

General Inquiries & Bookings

800-484-7147

info@11stepstoself.com

​

Email Author Directly

tameka@11stepstoself.com

Press & Media Inquiries

​

 

press@poppymusepublishing.co

imageedit_36_6619915402.png

Support foster youth here via Poppy Muse.org

​

​

bottom of page