I am a Diversity & Inclusion practitioner with a background in social services. I initially pursued a career in social work due to my passion for service and social justice. For 7 years, I served vulnerable populations in the DC-metropolitan area addressing social problems like poverty, generational homelessness, lack of access to quality education, abuse and maltreatment, and complex trauma regularly in my practice. As I assisted clients, mentees and students in navigating these challenges, it became apparent that many support programs were flawed and failing to adequately meet the needs of underserved communities. Conversely, I realized how organizational policies, procedures, and work culture impacted employees' ability to deliver services to clients. I transitioned to Human Resources desiring to influence change on a macro level, which will benefit employees and ultimately the communities I once served as a social worker. My Masters in Conflict Analysis & Resolution helped me develop skills in creative problem solving, collaborative processes, mediation and negotiation. My experience as a social worker and peacebuilder gives me a unique perspective to the HR field.