I was raised by my grandmother on the east side of Chicago. My childhood was non-existent and, at the age of 9.5, I began raising my newborn brother. Taking on such significant responsibility at a very early age both did wonders for my future professional  life, and damaged me in unimaginable ways. Yet, the challenges of a turbulent childhood made me who I am; in both good and not-as-good ways. Through it all my grandmother April was my lighthouse. She was the steady calm in other's storm, doing all she could to help others and I live and work each day to pay it forward. 

I am so grateful for all that I have and the privileges I enjoy that many do not. Still, this journey called life is a trip! It's been a tough road and along the way I always craved guidance and mentorship that I didn't receive until I was grown and well into my career. Not until my My AmeriCorps experience with City Year Chicago (2002-2003) did I finally encounter exactly the type of mentorship I wish I had received growing up. After completing that year of national service I began to intentionally seek opportunities to be mentored and to mentor others. This led to my career focus in HR and Operations while on staff at City Year Chicago. During my time in this role I was able to do so many amazing things, the culmination of which was creating the Human Potential & Operations department as the Chief of Staff/Managing Director of People and Operations. Because I love working with people who are hungry to connect to their deepest sense of purpose, I also began informally coaching during this time. So when I decided to take the next step in my professional journey  it was a no-brainer to follow my bliss and coach others! 
 

If you're interested in learning more about my professional experience, check out my LinkedIn page.

I am a Black woman, first generation college graduate, child of God, sister, niece, mother, cousin, friend, mentor, and much more, and I bring all of my many-layers to my work. I have a wealth of professional and lived experience that uniquely positions me to make a lasting impact on the person or nonprofit I am partnering with. I am skilled at navigating stakeholder communication and management while simultaneously remaining authentic and laser-focused on the goal. I have worked with executive teams to both grow and to dissolve, and with individuals to reinvigorate purpose in their present and to step outside of their comfort zone towards their future. Above all, I am energized about providing services to individuals and nonprofits that are ready to partner in finding solutions to their pain points. I coach others in getting back to their center because supporting others to become the highest versions of themselves is the work that genuinely brings me joy.