Tanei Atagi Henry is inspiring girls throughout the valley to dream big and become anything they want to be. In 2017, with a team of like-minded women, Tanei started a yearly career exploration event called Provo Girls Summit. This annual event provides a space for young girls ages 8 to 12 to interact face-to-face with professional women in a wide range of career paths. In 2019, Tanei’s team founded the non-profit Introducing Tomorrow, and they’ve now successfully run six Provo Girls Summit events and enchanted more than 1,200 girls, introducing them to 120 women in various professions. Tanei has a clear passion for education, and was a Provo School District Golden Apple Award recipient during her time as a Timpview High School English teacher in 2011. She is now co-president of her children’ s elementary school PTO, and is also on the school community council at Timpview High School. Tanei is the embodiment of Provo Girls Summit’s tagline — “If she can see it, she can be it.”
Dealer’s Choice I get kids to school, eat breakfast and go to the gym. I am rehabbing after a torn Achilles, so that is a top priority. Then, it’s errands, lunch and any work I need to handle. Later, I am driving kids to their things and cooking dinner. The evening is full of more home responsibilities and then bedtimes. Every day is different, but similar.
Hand You Were Dealt This past year, I completely tore my right Achilles. I couldn’t walk or drive, and I have four children who rely on me for a lot of things. I learned that showing up in any capacity is still good and I didn’t have to count myself out. As I was reliant on others, it reinforced the idea that people want to help, and will, if you ask them.
Shuffle the Cards In 2012, my husband was laid off and we took on the self-employed life. It has been an adventure, and he and I are both more willing to take risks. Because we had already started one business, I was more prepared to run Provo Girls Summit and start the non-profit arm as well. We often have no idea how things will go, but we are willing to play the game and see what happens.
Wild Card I love to make Halloween costumes.
Strongest Suit I’d describe my style as comfortable and casual.