India Yarborough

Vice President of Marketing and Communications

india.yarborough@topekapartnership.com

India Yarborough is the VP of Marketing & Communications for the Greater Topeka Partnership, where she uses her skills in storytelling and community engagement to promote Topeka as a vibrant and thriving city. She joined The Partnership as Communications Manager in October 2021 and quickly moved up the ranks to become VP of M&C at the start of 2024. Before moving to Topeka, India was a business reporter for The Topeka Capital-Journal, a job that brought her to Kansas’ capital city in the summer of 2019.

Originally from Mississippi, India holds a bachelor of arts in mass communication with an emphasis in journalism and a minor in sociology from Loyola University New Orleans. Since moving to Topeka, India has been actively involved in the community through organizations like Forge Young Talent and Boys and Girls Clubs of Topeka’s Club Blue. She is also a 2023 graduate of Leadership Greater Topeka and is committed to promoting community, connection, and equity in everything she does.

When she’s not working hard to promote Topeka, India enjoys exploring the city’s many hidden gems, trying out new restaurants, and attending community events. She’s also an avid reader.

What's your favorite local business or entrepreneur that you've worked with, and why?

I’d have to go with Jong’s Thai Kitchen or The Market at Macvicar! Thai food is my favorite, and Jong’s seriously has some of the best Thai cuisine in the U.S. I also enjoy thrifting and have found some amazing gems at The Market at Macvicar, right across from Bobo’s on 10th Street. Support local, and check ’em out!

If you could magically improve one aspect of the local economy overnight, what would it be and why?

If I could wave a magic wand and improve one aspect of the local economy overnight, I would lift all Shawnee County families out of poverty to ensure guardians have the financial resources they need to care for their households and so every child in our community has the support they need to grow and thrive.

How does your role contribute to the organization's efforts to improve the local economy?

As communications director, I’m responsible for external communications that highlight and amplify the work being done by Downtown Topeka, GO Topeka, the Topeka Chamber and Visit Topeka. External communications include press releases, media relations work, email marketing efforts, social media campaigns, print and digital publications, and more. In reality, that means each day I’m working with GTP staff and community members to share the Topeka area’s story with our own community, the region, and the world.

India is a seasoned runner. She ran her first half marathon during her senior year of high school and has since completed two more. It's no surprise that India approaches her work with the same dedication and determination as she does her running, always striving to go the distance and achieve her goals.

DID YOU KNOW?

Gage Park

India Yarborough is a lover of nature and fitness, and one of her favorite spots in town to combine those passions is Gage Park. Whether she’s running on the park’s two-mile paved path or enjoying a picnic on its lush green grass, India finds peace and relaxation in the park’s beautiful setting. It’s a place where she can escape from the hustle and bustle of work and connect with the outdoors. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to read a good book and soak up some sun on a lazy afternoon. Gage Park has become a regular part of India’s routine, and she’s grateful to have such a wonderful local treasure right in her own backyard.