What's your personal advocacy?
Feeding people across the globe
What was the turning point that first got you interested in it?
I grew up in a home that placed tremendous value on family, food, and culture. We would gather around the table for long meals and, often, would have others among us. I began volunteering at a young age and became passionate about addressing food insecurity.
How do you live it out daily?
Today, I am President of The Migrant Kitchen Initiative, a 501c3 foundation. Migrants from around the world come together in our global kitchens to share their stories and cultures through healthy, delicious meals that are served to the food insecure in communities around the world.
During this challenging time, when the news remains heavy with stories that highlight the lack of access to food, education, jobs, and health care, I am working diligently to offer hope to those most in need - beginning with food. The Migrant Kitchen Initiative collaborates across public, private, and government sectors to use our voice and bring attention, and resources, to the communities that need it the most.
Words to live by / philosophy that you believe in
The Covid-19 pandemic and recent economic decline has exasperated the hunger crisis. Many families are struggling to put food on the table. Women are the first to sacrifice their own food to ensure their families have enough. No woman, no matter who they are or where they were born, should have to worry about where their next meal will come from. Together, women must support one another - both in the community and in our every day. We must support one another and lift each other up.
Personal definition of sustainability
Sustainability is to be ongoing, without depletion.
Tips for individuals who want to start adopting a more sustainable lifestyle
Adopting sustainable practices, whether large or small, can have significant impacts. Start small. Every action will lead to another. And talk about it. There is so much power in sharing your efforts, knowledge, and values. Your shared experience may influence someone around you, and our collective action will have the greatest impact.