Personal Stories
Following the Numbers: Accounting Assistant Fauzy Sayid Talks Finding His Way to CM
Born in Somalia, Fauzy Sayid spent several years of childhood and adolescence in Kenya before moving to the U.S. on an immigrant visa petitioned by his late father in early 2012. Living with physical impairment caused by post-polio syndrome, Fauzy has been a firm believer in self-advocacy and determination. Since [...]
Embracing Differences: Finance Director Vera Bruursema on Bringing Her Superpower to CM
Finance Director Vera Bruursema was born and raised in Massachusetts and was fortunate to be part of a loving and supportive family that enjoys spending time together. Her high energy is atypical of the average finance professional. She takes pride in forming meaningful relationships with clients and co-workers and enjoys [...]
A Passion for Learning: Change Consultant Kassandra Vivu on Her Equity Journey
Change Consultant Kassandra Vivu is African, Asian, and Islander. Growing up in South Florida in a multi-race community, and with her family background, she learned about cultural differences early; became multilingual; and grew up with an understanding of minority communities, diversity, and mental health. Kassandra developed a passion for learning [...]
Changing Systems: Change Consultant Cristal Ramirez on Bringing Her Lived Experience to Equity Work
From a young age, Change Consultant Cristal Ramirez felt the impacts of the foster care system. Cristal is a first generation Mexican American from central California. As a child, she went back and forth between living with her mother and eight siblings and having to navigate California's child welfare system [...]
Change Matrix Staff Celebrate Juneteenth
The United States has many federal holidays, but less is known about the newly appointed federal holiday Juneteenth. Officially recognized by President Biden in 2021, Juneteenth occurs annually on June 19. In January 1863, the first Watch Night took place — when enslaved and free African Americans gathered in secret [...]
From Global Upbringing to Change Agent: Change Consultant Cachet Evans on Defying Conformity
Born in Greece, Change Consultant Cachet Evans was a world traveler at a very young age. Raised in an active military family, she moved quite a lot, even attending school in Italy, Puerto Rico, and Virginia all in one year. Though this was a difficult adjustment, Cachet's life was enriched [...]