Hometown:

Suffolk, VA

Education:

Vassar College undergraduate; American University graduate

Year:

2013

Program:

Israel by Design

Why I decided to volunteer with the ENP:

Contributing to social change and cultural inclusivity is turning out to be a life passion. Volunteering with the ENP leverages this passion. I am not only using my skills to help Ethiopian-Israelis, but I am also helping the world understand the beauty of Jewish and Israeli diversity. We're one, big, diverse family!

Why this is important to me:

I relate to Ethiopian-Israelis' call for change and inclusivity. In the mosaic that is American culture, I am a member of both the Jewish American and Black American community. Both communities have faced significant social barriers. The Black community in particular continues to overcome limited access to education and employment. I've seen first-hand how good, culturally-appropriate education programs and "bottom-up" advocacy can help turn these negative trends around.