From Community Intern to Director: My Journey at Bamboo Royal Oak

A letter from our Community Director in Royal Oak, Ally Baird, on her journey and how she’s building a community hub that empowers wellness and technology innovation.

When I first stepped through the doors of Bamboo Royal Oak as a Community Intern in 2022, I couldn't have imagined how this space would transform not just my career, but my understanding of what community truly means.

Three years later, I find myself in a position that once seemed like a distant dream — Community Director of our thriving Royal Oak location. This journey from intern to director has been filled with growth, challenges, and countless moments of connection that have shaped both me and the space we've built together.

The Evolution of a Community Builder

My path to Bamboo began long before 2022. As a 21-year-old from Detroit's east side, I founded my first non-profit in 2015, Project YEARN, fueled by a passion for creating spaces where people could thrive. This led to Live Inspirationally, a platform focused on personal development for creative millennials that encompassed everything from media production to event planning.

What I didn't realize then was that these early ventures were preparing me for something greater — the opportunity to foster community in a space designed specifically for connection and growth.

Coworking = Community Wellness

Working at Bamboo has never been "just a job." Yes, our small-but-mighty team (now just myself and our coordinator Abby) manages 500+ members and countless event rentals while wearing every hat imaginable. But beneath the operational hustle lies something far more meaningful — a sense of belonging that transcends the physical space.

What makes Bamboo special isn't just our desks or meeting rooms; it's the wellness that permeates everything we do. It's watching members support each other through challenges, celebrating wins together, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued not just for what they do, but for who they are. Providing this community care and emotional support at Bamboo cultivates a space where people can truly thrive.

From Service to Leadership

I've come to understand that community building isn't about customer service — it's about leadership that empowers others. It's about creating conditions where people can form authentic connections and thrive in their work and lives.

As a 29-year-old Black woman with Belizean roots, I sometimes marvel at how beautifully the cards have played out. This opportunity feels like a manifestation of something I once only spoke into existence — a chance to create spaces that reflect the diverse, vibrant community I come from. I want to be a leader who not only embodies this manifestation, but helps others find their own path inside our community too.

Where Wellness Meets Tech Innovation

As I step into this new chapter as Community Director, I'm filled with excitement about the future. My vision includes bringing more tech-focused initiatives to Bamboo Royal Oak, expanding our wellness programming, and creating thoughtful, authentic experiences that nurture both creativity and connection.

Last week we welcomed hundreds through our doors for Tech Connect Week – a week of collaboration and connection for developers, leaders in AI, community builders, and startup innovation. Our tech ecosystem is regional and fast-growing, and we’re grateful to create a space that nurtures it.

I'm committed to learning and growing every day, driven by the knowledge that the community we're building extends far beyond our walls. When we create spaces where people feel truly seen and supported, we're doing more than running a coworking space — we're fostering the conditions for innovation, collaboration, and genuine human connection.

This is just the beginning of our story, and I can't wait to share this journey with all of you.

With gratitude and excitement,

Ally 🌱✨