Where do you work?
I am a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. I specialize in branding and messaging for businesses and organizations that are working to better our communities. Previously I was the co-founder and program director of a small but mighty organization called {she crew}. We worked to provide safe spaces and expressive platforms for adolescent girls and gender-expansive youth across Chicago. {she crew} was one of WU!’s partners during the 2019–20 year.

What is one thing you enjoy about your partnership with Women Unite!?
WU! Is a one-of-a-kind organization that truly centered intersectional feminism and equitable community growth. This is what I love so much about WU! From the leadership team, to the volunteers, to the organization they partner with, you can expect to collaborate with some of the most compassionate and genuine people in Chicago.

What’s an issue you care deeply about?
Accessible, decolonized education for all paired with reparations for Black and Indigenous people. Let’s gooooo!

What’s a hobby you have?
Cooking refills my cup. It centers working with my hands, having a process, and, of course, has a delicious end result. Before the pandemic, I hosted dinners multiple times a month. There is something incredibly special about creating a meal for people to share and enjoy. For the past year, I have obviously shifted to only cooking dinner for my wife and I, but have found some ways to still share dishes that I love with close friends through dish-swapping and recipe sharing.

What gives you hope?
Honestly, young people. Young people are tapped into what is going on and know what needs to be changed so that communities can succeed.

What are 2–3 ways you’ve been getting through this pandemic?
Not gonna lie, I love TV, so definitely that. Plus yoga, walks in nature with my dog, great food, and chillin with my wife.

Fun/random fact you want to share?
I grew up digging up dinosaur bones in the Texas desert. Finding skulls is super rare because brains made for tasty treats way back in the prehistoric day.

What’s one of your favorite local Chicago businesses?
Oh man, shoutout to HarvesTime Foods: my favorite grocery store. IYKYK.