Tell us a little bit about your background and why you joined Workforce Matters.
I currently lead The Broad Foundation’s (TBF) pathways to good jobs portfolio, which provides youth and adults with the skills, social capital, and workforce training to secure family-wage earning employment. Before joining TBF, I led education, youth, and workforce development initiatives as a Senior Deputy in both the City and County of Los Angeles. Prior to my time in government, I worked as an Associate Scientist for Abt Associates in Cambridge, MA, where I managed education and workforce evaluations for several federal government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Education and Labor.
My experiences in government, research, and philanthropy are guided by an unyielding commitment and passion to serve. As a native Angeleno, raised in South Los Angeles, I was fortunate to come across an amazing network of teachers and mentors who saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. I’m humbled by this same opportunity to give back and help scale equitable solutions that can enable our most vulnerable communities to thrive.
I joined Workforce Matters to network with other education and workforce funders with this same mission. As a newbie in philanthropy, I’ve recognized two important things in my journey: I don’t know everything, and I need community. Through Workforce Matters, I’ve met an incredible network of leaders with a passion for continuous learning and a mission to advance equity through workforce philanthropy.
What is something people might not know about you?
I love to dance – Hip hop, jazz, modern dance, and many more. I love taking dance classes at my neighborhood studio and gym.
What is something you are looking forward to this year?
I look forward to working with leaders across sectors and community stakeholders to launch bold ideas that can connect historically marginalized youth to workforce opportunity. Beyond my professional endeavors, I’m also looking forward to traveling to Africa this Summer. I am embarking on a solo adventure, beginning in Arusha, and ending my journey in Zanzibar.
