Georgia State Senate District 15 race candidate profile: Alyssa Nia Williams

(Photo courtesy Nia for Georgia)

This week, Now Georgia is running a series of candidate profiles for the open seat of Georgia Senate District 15. This will be the first time the seat has been vacant in 33 years.

My mom moved to Columbus when I was two years old. We stayed off Brown Avenue. My childhood unfolded across East Wynnton, MLK Boulevard, Farley Homes Apartments, and Warren Williams Apartments.

“My mom was a single parent of three children. My younger brother had cerebral palsy. My mother was his caregiver. Those experiences taught me compassion and a strong foundation for life,” said Alyssa Nia Williams.

Alyssa grew up in Columbus neighborhoods. (Photo courtesy Alyssa Williams)

She attended public schools and grew up with Metropolitan Baptist Church as her church home from the age of eight. Alyssa has fond memories of YMCA dances and spending countless hours at the former W.C. Bradley Memorial Library.

“I share this because this community shaped my values and sense of responsibility. A village makes a difference.”

Alyssa Nia William’s experience

She earned her MBA from American Intercontinental University and became a business consultant. Williams has worked on budgeting and marketing strategies to help clients achieve their goals. 

“My background opened my eyes to challenges faced by families and businesses in our community. Those closest to problems are closest to the solutions,” said Williams.

This is not her first venture into politics. Alyssa ran for Columbus Council District 9 in 2022 against four other candidates, including incumbent Judy Thomas. Thomas had held the seat since 2010 and won the election.

Two years ago, she ran for House District 140 against Teddy Reese. Reese won in 2024. Now that he has qualified for Georgia Senate District 15, Williams will once again face her former opponent.

Alyssa Nia Williams is part of Emerge Georgia. It’s an organization that inspires women to run for office and trains them to be successful candidates. (Photo courtesy Nia for Georgia)

Lessons learned

“I want to make sure our district is covered. I feel empowered to lead. I am involved in making an impact in the community often, behind the scenes. If I’m feeding the homeless or doing other volunteer work, I don’t need it documented or to be seen doing it.”

Williams is committed to focusing on issues including affordable housing, a timely resolution of court cases, and to focus on licensing for trade skills.

“I want to be proactive instead of reactive.”

Williams is hosting a virtual campaign kickoff at 4:00 pm on March 29. Follow Nia for Georgia for more information.