For our latest Meet the Board, let us introduce you to Katina (Tinka) Bush, APR our Director of Awards.

Tell us about yourself and your current role.

I have been quite fortunate in this industry. With stints both in-house and with agencies, covering brands big and small across several industries, I’ve had no shortage of experiences in various verticals of public relations. Over the last several years, I pivoted to strategic and leadership positions within nonprofit and higher education institutions. I’ve also spent significant time consulting with small, women-owned businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area implementing brand communications strategies and marketing their services to new and existing audiences. Most notably, I earned my Accreditation (APR) in November 2020 after studying for a little over 18 months. 

How did you get into PR?

I always wanted to work in public relations. I discovered it while in high school in a business and entrepreneurship class, and never looked back. What drew me in was the idea of connections and building relationships between brands and their audiences. Sharing stories and growing awareness about the work of others really excites me and keeps me engaged even after almost 13 years in public relations.  

What do you love about PR?

An easier question would be, “what don’t I love?” That answer is pretty short and succinct: nothing, nada, zilch! If I had to pick my top three reasons for loving PR, it would be: (1) building connections, since I am a natural social butterfly; (2) developing and sharing stories, because I am a natural communicator; and (3) increasing brand awareness for my clients and organizations, as I love helping others.  

Why are you in PRSA-SF? What do you feel the benefits have been for you? 

I was a member of PRSSA in college, and because I valued my experience and the learning opportunities, I decided to join PRSA-SF once I graduated. I wanted to take part in continuing my education, participate in industry activities, and network with other members in an effort to keep improving myself professionally. My favorite benefits are the seminars, webinars and (pre-COVID) the networking mixers each month. I am all about gaining knowledge and applying the latest tips, tricks and trends to my work, growing my network and building lasting relationships with my peers.

What are you hoping to accomplish during your year as director of awards with PRSA-SF? 

I really hope to host a safe, in-person awards ceremony next winter. Aside from that, I hope to expand awareness of the program and build on the exceptional submissions over  the last two years. We have phenomenal PR pros and programs happening all across the Bay Area, and I want to make sure they have the chance to be acknowledged, recognized, and, more importantly, celebrated for the incredible work. Look out for more information on The Foggies in the late spring.  

What's one piece of advice you wish you would have known when you started out in PR?

You’re never done learning! Once I graduated college, I thought the “studying” was over. But this industry is constantly changing and growing, we, as professionals, have to continue to educate ourselves along with that. I have come to love it, but I was not ready for it at first. Stay up-to-date and be prepared to self-teach as you continue through your professional PR career. 

What are some of your hobbies? What do you do for fun?

We are so lucky to live in the Bay Area. A few miles north, you have the premiere Napa and Sonoma Wine Country and fabulous wine tasting. A few hours east and you are enjoying the mountains and the snow. And a few minutes south, you’re enjoying some of the best coastal views in all of California. This helps introduce me out of the office. I enjoy traveling to places near and far. I truly love to cook, turning flavors into households favorites and pairing with some local wine. I also like to pair a glass with a great story, reading 2-3 books a month. Finally, once it is safe again, it will be a good bet to find this avid sports fan at a Giants, Warriors or 49ers game!