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

I just recently became a member of the California Black Health Network shortly after beginning my internship. I was drawn to CBHN because I wanted to be part of an organization that actively advocates for health equity and uplifts Black communities everywhere. My experiences with CBHN have been nothing short of wonderful, as they have given me the platform to learn, contribute, and give back to the community. 

What is your current profession?  

This spring, I will graduate from UC Irvine and continue my education in graduate school, where I will pursue a Master of Public Health emphasizing in global health and epidemiology. My long-term goal is to work in preventative medicine research with a focus on global health equity and improving access to care for underserved populations.

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

One of the most significant barriers to achieving health equity for Black Californians is unequal access to quality resources. Whether it is access to healthcare services, nutritious food, safe housing, or educational opportunities, many of our communities in California face systemic challenges that impact our health outcomes. Medial mistrust and cultural competence in particular have exacerbated disparities that extend beyond the healthcare world, which is why organizations like CBHN are so important. 

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

Through my internship with CBHN and my academic experiences, I have been able to contribute to conversations surrounding health equity, community engagement, and public health education.

In May, I hosted a Beauty Detox Day to educate students about the potential dangers of toxic chemicals in beauty and personal care products, especially because Black women and communities of color are often disproportionately exposed to these products. This event allowed me to connect public health education with culturally relevant practices, helping students better understand ingredient safety, advocacy, and the importance of non-toxic alternatives. 

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?  

What inspires me most is the opportunity to create meaningful change and improve the lives of others. Growing up in Oakland, I witnessed how health outcomes can be influenced by factors outside of an individual’s control, including access to resources, education, and healthcare. Those experiences are what motivate me to pursue a career in public health and advocate for communities that have historically been underserved.

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

One of the bravest things I have ever done was staying true to my beliefs in a world of so much controversy.  For me, that means advocating for those without a voice even when the issues I care about are not always the most popular or commonly supported. Sometimes it can be difficult, but I have learned that sometimes the greatest changes happen because someone refused to accept that things had to stay the way they were. 

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

The best advice I’ve received is to prioritize who you want to be, not what you want to be. Sure, if you pursue something and work hard enough, you can do it. But what does that mean if you’re not proud of your character? Every day, I work hard to be intentional and genuine, so even on hard days, I can reflect and admire the character I uphold. If we stay true to ourselves, the values that we hold, and the type of person we are, success is bound to come.