Professional Achievements: Supporting young people behind the scenes. It could be encouragement before a job interview, or it could be advocacy for young people in the workplace.
Current state of mind: Excited to drive change.
Passion Project: I am very passionate about the arts, especially dance. I also spend time cooking. If you ask anyone who’s ever eaten my meal, they’ll tell you it’s about 99% garlic, which I probably grew in my garden. Another passion project of mine.
“Light bulb” moment: When I was in college and working at a career development center, some of my friends started asking me if I could help them prepare for interviews and look at their resumes.
At that moment, it clicked in my mind. Connecting people with the same feeling I had when I went to work and loved my job was what I wanted to do. Almost eight years later, I’m still a career-informed friend who loves helping people connect with meaningful work.
Bold goal: I want to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, Mbulumba Kelina, who was a political leader in Namibia. I want to continue his legacy by serving my country at the national policy level. He is one of my biggest inspirations and I want to make him proud.
Favorite quote: “We have a tomorrow. It’s bright before us, like a flame.” — Langston Hughes, in his poem “Youth.”
Influential book: “The Final Resurrection of Opal and Nev” by Dawnie Walton. This book taught me why it’s so important to always be completely unapologetically yourself.
Favorite movies/podcasts/TV shows: “Ever After,” “Adventure Zone,” “Downton Abbey”
Best way to recharge: I am a big reader and am currently reading about 4 books. I never get tired of reading. I’m a big hiker and nature-based adventurer. When I’m not in the city of Portland, I’m usually in the mountains or by the water with my paddle board.
Age 60: I want to end my career after leading my nonprofit and continue to work on elevating youth voices through authentic community support and engagement. If possible, I would also like to enjoy time travel and eat meals all over the world.
