I believe that every person has a unique story, and that some of life's greatest lessons come from listening to one another with empathy, curiosity, and an open mind. Throughout my journey, I have been passionate about connecting the complexity of the human experience with practical solutions that encourage growth, understanding, and inclusion.
My experiences have shaped who I am today. I have spent over eight years providing direct care for individuals living with dementia, physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and emotional challenges. Combined with more than a decade of customer service and over 40 years as a singer, violinist, actor, and storyteller, I have learned that every interaction is an opportunity to make someone feel seen, heard, and valued.
As a non-binary transgender person living with a disability myself, I understand the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I am passionate about advocating for diversity, accessibility, and inclusion through creativity. Whether I am writing poetry, crafting haiku, producing multimedia projects, composing songs, or sharing stories, I strive to inspire conversations that build understanding and strengthen communities.
I have completed Safe Zone and Speak Out training and was honored to participate in both the United Way PRIDE Leadership Development Program and the More Light Presbyterian Ambassadorship in 2019. These experiences strengthened my commitment to servant leadership, advocacy, and helping others create environments where people can truly belong.
When I'm not working or creating, I enjoy giving back to my community. I serve as the Social Media Coordinator for the Scandinavian Heritage Society and as an Elder at Downtown United Presbyterian Church. These roles allow me to continue building meaningful relationships while preserving stories, traditions, and opportunities for others to connect.
My hope is that my DEEPDIIG Hub becomes a place where people can discover new perspectives, learn from my experiences, and find resources that encourage empathy, creativity, inclusion, and lifelong learning. I believe that when we take the time to understand one another, we create stronger communities and a more compassionate world.