From an early age, I learned the value of leadership. I was part of a cult from birth until age seven and was excommunicated from most of my family and friends. Even when my parents chose to leave that community, they continued to raise my sister and me in many of those same values. At age ten, I began working with my dad at our local newspaper warehouse to help pay our bills. Because of my story—and because I became a core provider for my family at such a young age—I learned grit, courage, and the power of leadership.

 

In my short life, I have experienced a wide range of leadership. I know how it can transform someone's story in both positive and negative ways. I have also learned that we get to choose how we lead our own stories in light of those experiences, and that how we define leadership is incredibly important.

 

Art and creativity have also been woven into my life from a young age. Art became not just an outlet, but a language for me. It was—and still is—a way to express story. From joy to sorrow, from laughter to leadership, art became a means of making meaning from life. For me, it isn't just about drawing; it's about telling the story of what, or who, is in front of me.

 

Over time, I discovered that these two passions—illustration and facilitation—are not pulling me in different directions. They are telling the same story. Whether through coaching conversations, facilitating learning experiences, or creating illustrations, my work is ultimately about helping people see, understand, and shape their stories. I have found that combining these passions allows me to support individuals as they discover, reclaim, and create the stories they want to live.

 

This is the work that inspires me: drawing out stories, helping people make sense of where they have been, and equipping them to move forward with greater clarity, purpose, and intention.