Would you share a little about your personality, purpose, and passion with us?
I am an introverted extrovert. I often like to sit in a corner reading a book, while also having a few friends and family members lounging around. My purpose is to make sure that there is a seat at the table for other people of color, and my passion is fighting against systemic inequalities and injustices.
What insights or challenges have you noticed about working in philanthropy so far?
One challenge that I’ve noticed within the field is that not many young people of color are invited in the conversations of philanthropy. Growing up in the South, many of my classmates and colleagues were doing the work the philanthropic sector is doing, but we did not realize that what we were doing had an actual name/profession attached to it. I believe if more young people of color were given the chance and this line of work was broadcasted more, then I think there would be more young POC in this field.
Are you new in your role? Also, tell us what you do in your work (pretend we're a third-grader).
Yes, I'm new to my role as NCG's technology guru. If there is a problem with Zoom, you know, it’s kind of like FaceTime. I am the person that comes in and fixes all of the issues. I work on sound, the transitions between slides, and I even help with answering any questions that people may have. I also help with program registration! Everything leading up to the program is up to me to make it run smoothly.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself that your parents probably don’t know about you (yet)?
I am not as big of a risk-taker as they think. I am more reserved and observant before I make any big changes.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up, I always wanted to be a principal or a professor.
What’s exciting you most about your sector?
The tangible changes that I see being made. I have the privilege of joining almost all the virtual events that we host here at NCG. Hearing how passionate the panelists are to go back into their communities and make these changes for the betterment of the people, how participants are eager to implement these changes, whether within their organizations or their broader communities, gives me tremendous hope for the future.