I believe that, for the most part, we are all doing the best we can. People need to be seen, trusted, and validated. I hold a deep belief that each of us carries an inner wisdom about what we need for ourselves. I often find myself in the role of helping folks bridge the gap between where they are and where we want to be. I believe in dreaming big to imagine the life we want based on our individual values & goals, and then taking tangible steps toward building a life that reflects our true selves. Working in community engagement for the last decade I know we cannot do this alone and need to lean into our interdependence to really thrive.
I am fascinated by the diversity of minds, identities, and lived experiences around me and how we each navigate this world. It is a true honor when someone feels safe enough to show who they really are, and it is in those authentic, safe spaces that healing and growth happen. In my journey to better understand the human experience, I obtained a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in LGBTQ+ Studies from San Diego State University. I then studied leadership through a whole person well-being lens, earning an M.A. in Happiness Studies from Centenary University. This path of learning provided the framework around what I already knew to be true- people thrive when they are safe, trusted, and empowered.
I am grateful to be able to incorporate my lived experience with disability, passion for community, and leadership training in my role at Plant It Again. We get to experience the healing power that removing barriers and believing in each other has all around us.