What motivates you to give back to your community?
I want to live in a more just, equitable, and compassionate world. That world isn’t going to show up one day; we need to build it. We’ve seen where inertia gets us: widening wealth gaps, rising global temperatures, and dwindling agreement on what’s true. If we want to live in a better world, we – as individuals and communities – need to align our lives with the values that we profess to hold. Even and perhaps especially when it’s hard.
What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?
You’re not behind. In fact, you’re not in nearly the rush you think you are. At 22 years old, I was living in Cayenne, the beach-town capital of French Guiana, on the northeastern coast of South America. I could have stayed another year, but I felt immense internal pressure to come back to the U.S. to start my “real career.” Even though I had no idea what my “real career” was. Travel was a key part of my development; I wouldn’t be here without it. All these years later, I still remind myself that the hypothetical track is fictional and it’s not possible to be behind.
What would make New Hampshire more attractive to young professionals?
New Hampshire is already attractive but for many young professionals, building a sustainable life here feels increasingly unattainable. New Hampshire needs more affordable housing so people can work here, build families here, and live their lives here. More reliable and less expensive Wi-Fi also couldn’t hurt.
Do you see yourself living and working in New Hampshire at age 55-plus?
The longest I have lived anywhere since high school is in New Hampshire. The state punches way above its weight, offering up mountains and beaches, locally sourced and sustainable food and restaurants, and increasingly diverse businesses and nonprofits. I have no idea where I’ll be in 10 years, much less at 55, but I am grateful to have found my way here now!
Volunteer activities: New Hampshire State Delegate for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition; JFNH Antisemitism and Diversity Committee; African Diaspora Engaging Africa; NEST; Dance in Portsmouth.
Last major achievement: Hiring a new Country Director in Niger the week before the coup – great timing!
