How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN? 

What drew me to CBHN is really the heart of its mission: creating real, lasting change for Black communities across California. Growing up in Oakland and being a fourth-generation educator, I’ve seen firsthand how health disparities impact our families and neighborhoods. I’ve always believed that strong, genuine relationships are the foundation for building change, and CBHN stands for that same belief. I’ve been a member of the Black Health Network for over a year, and in that time, I’ve seen the power of this community to connect, uplift, and inspire action. Their work aligns deeply with my passion for connection, growth, and transformation. In my role, I’m excited to build on the partnerships we’ve nurtured at HHREC and create new pathways that continue our shared legacy of impact. It feels like a natural extension of the work I’ve always been called to do.

What is your current profession?

I serve as the Campaign Managing Director at the Health and Human Resource Education Center (HHREC), where I assist with strategic campaigns and build meaningful partnerships to advance health equity and community well-being. By working closely with local leaders and organizations, I strive to build collaborative solutions that empower individuals and families to thrive. For me, this work bridges my passion for community connection and advocacy into action that uplifts and sustains our shared future.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians? 

From my perspective, as someone deeply connected to community work in Oakland and through my role at HHREC, there are three main barriers to achieving health equity for Black Californians. 

1. Structural racism affects healthcare policies and practices, leading to treatment and outcome disparities.
2. Economic disparities, such as income inequality and inconsistent health insurance access, impede consistent healthcare provision.
3. Generations of distrust from past medical harm and neglect cause many to hesitate in seeking help from health systems.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

I’ve prioritized Black Californians' health by building and nurturing strong, lasting partnerships that drive community wellness and equity. I help with initiatives that strengthen outreach and connect individuals and families to holistic support services. My goal is to create meaningful, community-centered strategies that address barriers and promote healthier futures.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do? 

What inspires me to keep doing this work is the hope for a community where we can all live longer, healthier lives, free from preventable health disparities like those caused by tobacco use and systemic inequities. I’m driven by the vision of a future where everyone has access to the resources, support, and healing practices they deserve. I want to see our community celebrate wellness, honor cultural expression, and embrace leadership and collaboration rooted in love. What keeps me going is the belief that together, we can reclaim our power over our health, our stories, and our future.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

The bravest thing I’ve ever done was choosing to lead in moments when it felt easier to walk away. When I became Campaign Managing Director at HHREC, I stepped fully into the responsibility of creating change for my community. Growing up in Oakland, in a family of educators, I understood early the weight of carrying not just my own hopes but the dreams of many. There were times when life gave me every reason to quit, but I refused. I kept going, trusted my voice, and led with courage and heart. Because our communities deserve to rise, and so do we.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

The best advice that I received is that “I am enough.”