Celebrating Women's History Month
What is your job title? How long have you worked at Black Onyx Management?
I'm a Project Manger and I've been here for about 7 months now.
Hometown?
Indianapolis, IN
What’s a fun fact or two about you?
I love to read, but I admit that I am a bit of a slow reader. I like to take my time, jotting down a lot of my real time reactions in the margins as I go.
I've always been fascinated with languages and learning them. It's can be a beautiful way to connect with people and allow others to feel seen. By no means am I a polyglot, but I can maybe get by in at least one or two.
What three words describe you?
Open-minded
Empathetic
Intentional
What do you like to do outside of work?
I longboard! I've been skating since college, but I've only recently taken up longboarding, and it's honestly never leaving my side. So relaxing.
Outside of that, I just enjoy being out in nature. I feel like whenever it's sunny and warm out I HAVE to take advantage of it - especially considering Indianapolis' unpredictable weather!
Who is the most influential woman you know? How does she inspire you?
Probably my aunt, Vonda. She's taught me from a young age what it means to not only want something for yourself, but to actively work towards it.
I just remember as a kid following her around as she led various community events for her church. Seeing her dedication, I've kind of just naturally grew up wanting to contribute to that as well in some way of my own.
What are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? How will these change in the next 20 years?
Oh boy, I mean there are quite a few, yeah? Inequities in pay, the apparent inability to make our own decisions about our bodies, and intersectionality, specifically in terms of race and gender identity. There's a lot to address.
However, I am hopeful, that in the next 20 years, we will see, if not positive change for women, then at least stronger advances towards positive change for women. I've always been a big believer in the idea that change has to start from within, then within the home, and then ripple out to the community and environment around us. For me, that's where it all starts.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
I remember once hearing that peace doesn't mean you won't have problems; it means that problems won't have you. That one really stuck with me.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
It's okay if you have a hard time finding your voice as long as you don't give up trying to find it.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you and how do you plan to observe it?
Looking both forward and back at all of the incredible women around us who have not only made significant impacts in society, but also in our own communities and homes, is both inspiring and heartwarming. I feel a sense of kinship in that.
Now as for how I'll celebrate, I'm not quite sure yet. Maybe I'll dedicate time to further educate myself or show support for some women-owned businesses in my community.