STORYTELLING
I combine expertise with authenticity to produce informative and impactful presentations that highlight universal themes infused with data and insights. From the youngest and brightest minds to the most accomplished professionals, inspiring motivational keynote presentations are fine-tuned and meticulously curated for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
SPEECH TOPICS
FOSTERING EQUITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING IN EDUCATION
Improving and expanding access to quality education, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), is critical for both enabling our society to address the most pressing challenges of today as well as spurring innovation to solve the problems of tomorrow. A global crisis completely disrupted the traditional education model and exacerbated pre-existing disparities. I speak to the resilience and ingenuity of educators who, amid persistently daunting circumstances, remained committed to ensuring learning continued. I also explore the importance of applying an intersectional lens to enhance learning and empower students in all walks of life, making student success more equitable. Drawing from my own journey as a Black female scientist and leading research, I also share insights on barriers that contribute to persistent diversity issues in STEM education and careers as well as effective interventions.
OVERCOME IMPOSTER SYNDROME & LIVE YOUR LEGEND
On the heels of achievement, it is not uncommon for people to feel like they just got “lucky” or that they do not deserve to be where they are. This is known as the imposter syndrome, which is typically associated with an inability to internalize accomplishments and a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud." Imposter syndrome can not only reduce confidence, but also impact performance. I discuss broader implications and prevalence of imposter experiences and share my own journey grappling with this “inner hater” as a graduate student at Harvard and even the White House. I also highlight tactics I have employed to overcome and manage imposter feelings, which have empowered me to persevere in the face of challenges in service of connecting with my highest self to live out my legend!
DREAM CHASING
“Dreams are like stars. You may never touch them, but if you follow them, they will lead you to your destiny.” Our resumes are the highlight reels of our careers, but the most interesting parts of our journeys often lie in periods of challenge and trials that catalyze the conversion of potential to growth and prompt us to reimagine what success means to us. The fear of failure is one of the biggest barriers to success. I share the authentic and vulnerable behind-the-scenes account of how I have faced fear head on in pursuit of my dreams. From taking a leave from my PhD program at Harvard to move to Hollywood, to turning down “safe” jobs and enduring unemployment to pursue my dream project full time. I have embodied a “high risk, high reward” mentality as I have navigated my career trajectory, which has taught me some powerful lessons.
