Meet Fatima
When did you move to the Rockford area?
2010
What are your hobbies or interests?
Volunteering, Gardening, Art, Golf
Favorite restaurant in Rockford?
Greenfire, Prairie Street Brewing Co., the Olympic Tavern
Best place to grab pizza in Rockford?
Woodfire and Mod Pizza
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to Rockford?
A piece of advice would be to find a local spot that you love, like a coffee shop or a park, and make it your go-to place. Plus, you might meet some friendly locals there!
Favorite fall activity or attraction in the area?
Edwards Apple Orchard, pumpkin patch
Favorite winter activity or attraction in the area?
Ice-skating, sledding, Stroll on State, Christmas lights
Favorite summer activity or attraction in the area?
Going to the park, beach, Rock Cut State Park hiking, barbecuing outside with family and friends
What’s a fun or random fact about you?
I like having fun and dancing and ceramic art
What do you think makes Rockford such a great place to live?
Rockford is a fantastic place to live because of its welcoming community, beautiful parks like Rock Cut State Park, and the variety of outdoor activities available. The city offers a great mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a wonderful place to call home!
Occupation
Working at my family accounting firm and future attorney, Community Foundation of Northern IL (IYWT), Chairman & Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council
Ethnicity
American + Arabic
What stage of life are you in?
Young Professional + senior at Guilford High School
What’s your best advice for someone experiencing their first winter in Rockford?
My best advice for someone experiencing their first winter is to dress in layers to stay warm. Also, try to stay active to keep your body warm, and don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of the winter season!
Favorite local event or festival
Eerie Autumn Lights, Northern Illinois Fear Fest, Fourth of July Parade
Best place to go for a night out in Rockford
Friday night at Embassy Suites rooftop view
One hidden gem in the Rockford area that you’d recommend
Anderson Japanese Gardens. It's a peaceful and beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature's beauty.
What’s your favorite thing about the Rockford community?
My favorite thing about the Rockford community is that we live in a diverse area, where people from different ethnicities and backgrounds come together like one big family.
If you had a free day in Rockford, what would you do?
I would explore the downtown shops and coffee shops.
Where’s the best place to enjoy nature in or around Rockford?
Nicholas Conservatory or Anderson Japanese Gardens.
What’s your favorite local small business or shop?
Rooted, Target, Ulta Beauty, Porch Inc., Smiley’s Vintage, Rockford Art Deli
Best way to get involved in the community?
A great way to get involved in the community is to talk with your neighbors and join outdoor and indoor activities, as well as clubs to meet new people.
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you first moved to Rockford?
One thing I wish I knew when I first moved to Rockford is how friendly everyone is! It makes settling in so much easier!
