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Y O U N G · B L A C K · F E M · I N · S T E M

  • We celebrate the richness of every culture by creating opportunities for meaningful cross-cultural interactions. Building connections helps bridge divides, and closing these gaps dispels myths. Much like a jumble of fragmented ideas, misconceptions transform into truth through open, clarifying conversations that foster mutual understanding and respect. Our goal is simple yet powerful: to enhance our understanding of ourselves and others.

  • We embrace wellness by addressing the emotional, physical, and social aspects of health in an integrated and balanced way. Through this holistic approach to recharging, we move closer to our truth.

  • We believe in healing relationships and communities through accountability, repair, and mutual respect. Creating equity requires both allyship, which amplifies marginalized voices, and accompliceship, which takes direct action to dismantle oppression. Through these roles, we commit to building trust and fostering inclusive spaces that prioritize collective healing and transformation.

  • We believe that nonviolent communication (NVC) centers on fostering sustainable relationships by emphasizing empathy, mutual understanding, and authentic dialogue. Relationships thrive when there is attentiveness, consistency, positivity, and vulnerability. Together, these frameworks offer a roadmap for cultivating relationships that are both resilient and deeply nourishing, enabling individuals and communities to thrive through intentional communication and genuine care.

  • We encourage continuous learning, adaptability, and self-reflection as essential pathways to personal and collective growth. By embracing curiosity and staying open to change, we deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, fostering a culture of growth and transformation. This commitment to learning empowers us to challenge biases, refine our practices, and co-create meaningful, lasting progress within our communities.

  • We commit to recognizing the importance of intersectionality in understanding how compounded marginalizations shape individual experiences. By addressing these intersections, we strive to co-create solutions that dismantle systemic barriers with thoughtfulness and care. This commitment guides us in fostering spaces where every identity is embraced, celebrated, and supported through equity, inclusion, and intentionality practices.

Mission Statement

The YBFIS community is dedicated to creating a transformative space where

empowerment, healing, and connection flourish through the embodiment of our

CHANGE values. We believe these values have the power to foster CHANGE

when enacted with intentionality. By prioritizing intersectionality and mutual

respect, we create a culture that celebrates every identity, fostering lasting,

meaningful change for individuals and communities alike. Click each section to

the left to read more about each of the CHANGE values. Notice how these values

are emphasized and incorporated into the work we do and the ways we show up in

space.

The Start of My Relationship With Medicine

During my four years at Mills College, I embraced opportunities that challenged me both as a future healthcare professional and

as a spiritual being navigating the human experience. My time at the Berkeley Free Clinic was especially transformative,

deepening my passion for community medicine and inspiring my commitment to cultural humility, trauma-informed care, and harm

reduction. As someone with lived experiences of intersectional marginalization, I sought roles that allowed me to integrate

understanding with action to drive meaningful change. Want to learn more about intersectional marginalization?

Click the button below!

Community is the Backbone of My Success

Success is never a solo journey—it takes a village. My village has been steadfast, showing up for me and teaching me how

to show up for myself. This collective care inspired me to create a sticker line that gives back, supporting local marginalized groups

by providing meaningful resources and actionable ways to help.

Each sticker purchase includes a 1-page PDF packed with need-to-know information about the featured group. You'll find key

terms, impactful stories, places to connect, organizations to donate to, and more. My website also includes resources tailored to

each U.S. state, helping you support these groups locally. These stickers aren’t just pieces of art to be admired—they’re

powerful ways to increase awareness, foster understanding, and build stronger, more compassionate communities. Together, we

can grow our village and truly be good neighbors.