COMMUNICATIONS FOR SOCIAL IMPACT
During my time at the University of Toronto, I researched, studied, and wrote about social network analysis and the “triple revolution”: the rise of social networking, the capacity of the Internet to empower individuals, and the always-on connectivity of mobile devices. I put theory to practice while working at a human rights organization as a social media intern in 2009. This was a critical moment when our world was just beginning to grasp the power of social media beyond connecting with classmates, posting photos, or sharing any passing thought on our “wall”. A year later, we would witness the Arab Spring unfold where platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube were used to organize protests, share uncensored news, document government abuses, and amplify voices calling for change.
I was deeply inspired by all of this and aimed to harness the power of social media to mobilize grassroots movements, connect activists across regions, and draw global attention to critical issues. Experimenting and innovating in my role as a social media intern, I quickly became the organization’s communications coordinator training staff in both North America and Sub-Saharan Africa on how to use digital tools to amplify our human rights reporting. From there, I continued my journey in the social impact space serving as the communications and marketing director for an experiential education organization dedicated to social justice. For 7 years, I developed and managed strategic campaigns to amplify the organization’s mission, engage communities, and drive meaningful action.
Since then, I’ve worked with many social enterprises, non-profits, and civic and community organizations in North America, East Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central America. From reproductive rights to press freedom, from LGBTQ activism to international development, my experience in the social impact space runs wide and deep.
“We have the burden of crafting new language and stories that allow people to imagine that new policies are possible. ”
ORGANIZATIONS I’VE WORKED WITH
MY APPROACH
POWERFUL STORYTELLING
Key to any organization or movement’s success is its ability to tell stories that connect audiences, create empathy, and ultimately cultivate community. From social enterprises to niche magazines, from travel businesses to cultural and educational institutions, I’ve worked across industry verticals to tell each organization’s unique story and advocate their cause in a meaningful and compelling way.
FLEXIBILITY & VERSATILITY
I embrace instability and am exhilarated by rethinking systems, challenging assumptions, and recalibrating my skills. I have an adept understanding of how to effectively navigate both online and offline platforms to communicate and engage with various stakeholders. I understand the power of technology and social networks and the importance of leveraging these tools and resources to accomplish specific goals.
STRATEGIC THINKING
Focused on the big picture while keeping a keen eye on defining details, I am passionate about connecting the dots between goals, strategy, tactics, and metrics. I draw lessons from across disciplines to experiment and innovate. Doing so allows me to continually assess and adjust the direction of overall strategies and specific campaigns to ensure success and yes, learn from failure.
Commitment to Equity
I am committed to anti-oppression and achieving equity. My experience covers quite a range: from human rights reporting to experiential education, from press freedom advocacy to women’s rights, from LGBTI activism to diversity and inclusion in marketing and media. This work has taken me across the globe to countries in East Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central and North America. Learn more about my values and approach here.
LET’S WORK TOGETHER
If you're looking to collaborate on thoughtful and impactful communication campaigns that drive real connection and spur action, let’s start a conversation.
