Originally published in April 2019
Antoinette Stevens never thought she could afford to live downtown… anywhere. Even with a solid job and good pay, she felt the idea of living the chic city life was reserved for the elite few.
“Well, at least that’s what I thought until I moved to Des Moines, Iowa,” she said. “In Des Moines, I can enjoy all the benefits of urban life – dining, culture, entertainment and the convenience of living just blocks from where I work. And, you want to know the best part? I still have money in my bank account to live a fun-filled life.”
Stevens, who grew up in the South, said she never dreamed of living in Iowa. Now Iowa is helping to make her dreams come true. “I’m building a great career here working in cybersecurity for a large financial services company,” said Stevens, who moved to Iowa three and a half years ago. “And when I wake up every morning and look out my window, I see a world-class art show. How many people can say that?” The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, which is filled with pieces by renowned artists from all around the globe, is just steps from Stevens’ building. To Stevens, Iowa represents opportunity.
For her, Des Moines is a blank slate of possibilities filled with passionate people who begin each day with a startup mentality. “I’m constantly connecting with brilliant people here who have big ideas,” she said. “We share knowledge with each other. We collaborate and solve problems. We dream big together.”
Stevens explained that the people of Iowa are not only smart and savvy, they’re down-to-earth folks who are committed to their communities. “They’re all about lending a hand, making a difference and building a better future,” she said. “They’re proud to be Iowans, and so am I!”
