Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a dedicated professional with over 10 years of experience in the mental health and human services field. I am currently double majoring in Human Resources and Social Science, with a focus on Social Work, at the University of Maryland Global Campus, where I am set to earn my bachelor’s degree.  I am a proud graduate of Oxon Hill High School, my passion for helping others has been evident throughout my career. I have worked extensively with the youth, particularly in the dance community. I have been a part of the dance community from the age of 4 and grew up performing with various companies. In 2015 I was a starting company member for the Katherine Smith Contemporary Dance Ensemble, where I became the Assistant Director wearing multiple hats as a choreographer, theatre technician, videographer, photographer, production manager, lighting director, and music engineer. I have received numerous accolades and awards; in 2017, was honored with the WKYS 93.9 30 Under 30 Award for my significant contributions to youth development, in 2022 & 2023 was a recipient for the Newsome Awards Best Contemporary Dance Artist of the year & Lifetime Achievement in the Arts. I am committed to continuing my work in the human services sector, utilizing my education and experience to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

What’s one accomplishment at Housing Up you are most proud of? 

One accomplishment I’m particularly proud of at Housing Up is my involvement in expanding our supportive services for families transitioning out of homelessness. I worked closely with my clients to develop various methods for them to focus on financial literacy, job readiness, and parenting skills. It was incredibly rewarding to see how working with them empowered them to not only secure stable housing but also build the skills they needed for long-term success. Knowing that our work has had a direct impact on improving the quality of life for families and helping them move toward self-sufficiency is something I’m really proud of.

What do you wish more people knew about affordable housing and homelessness? 

I wish more people understood that affordable housing is not just about providing a roof over someone’s head, but it’s about giving individuals and families the stability they need to thrive. It’s easy to assume that homelessness is just about a lack of shelter, but there are often deep-rooted issues, such as mental health challenges, job instability, and systemic barriers, that contribute to it. Affordable housing is the foundation that allows people to rebuild their lives—whether it’s pursuing education, securing employment, or even just having the mental and emotional space to heal. Homelessness can happen to anyone, and the solutions to it are not simple, but they start with access to stable, affordable housing and the support systems that help people stay housed.

How do you navigate the challenges you may face while supporting our families?

Supporting families at Housing Up can be challenging, but I approach it with empathy, patience, and a focus on collaboration. Every family has unique needs, so it’s important to take a personalized approach and build trust. I navigate challenges by listening carefully to their concerns and working alongside them to create a plan that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals. It’s crucial to remain flexible, as circumstances can change, and to provide consistent encouragement and resources to help them overcome setbacks. I also rely on teamwork, knowing that we are stronger together. The challenges are real, but the small wins—like seeing a family secure employment or achieve a personal milestone—make the effort incredibly worthwhile.