Rosemary Fordjour, a native of Ghana who immigrated to New York City in 1999 and relocated to the area two years ago, is the owner and CEO of Row Psychiatric Services in Paoli.

Fordjour, who began working at age 18 on the merchandise crew at Macy’s, earned a master’s degree in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health from Hunter College in New York City. She credits Nelson Mandela as having the biggest impact on her career.

“I have always admired his optimism, his perseverance, and his mindset,” Fordjour said of the anti-apartheid revolutionary and philanthropist.

Her proudest professional accomplishment occurred while working in a community mental health center that provided services for underserved communities.

“I remember having a homeless client who never missed his appointments with me, regardless of how unstable everything around him was,” said Fordjour. “He told me the reason why he never missed an appointment was because he felt respected and protected and that it was a human connection.”

Her favorite Chester County restaurant is Nudy’s Café.

“I love their Greek salad with salmon,” said Fordjour.