ICA Cristo Rey Academy’s Post

As Black Young Professionals, Is Our Upbringing Slowing Our Career Growth? Our traditional values, often teach us not to question or speak after elders have spoken, the notion that children should only speak when spoken to, and to avoid engaging with unfamiliar people, can inadvertently hinder career growth. These teachings may lead to reduced confidence, networking difficulties, and limited visibility in workplaces that encourage speaking up, challenging ideas, and taking initiative. This disconnects between our upbringing and corporate expectations can create internal conflicts, potentially slowing our career progression compared to peers from different backgrounds. As such, I often encourage young professionals with similar background to bridge this gap by developing self-awareness, gradually adapt their communication style, and continuously seek mentorship from successful professionals who walked similar journey. However, it remains crucial to find a balance between honoring our cultural roots and embrace the skills necessary for professional success. #BlackProfessionals #CareerGrowth #CulturalCompetence #WorkplaceDiversity #ProfessionalDevelopment #CorporateCulture #InclusiveWorkplace

Today was a big day! It’s been one year since I joined the community at the Humphrey School. I’m struck by how the wisdom of Dr. Nisha Botchwey’s words on my first day served as my North Star…”Take care of your team.” I aim to do this on a daily basis, humbled by their commitment, grace, humor, and expertise. And so grateful to be in this heart-centered, people-first space. When I was a diplomat, I would often ask myself whether a policy or activity would be in service to the American public. At the Humphrey School, our strategic plan places student success as the school’s top priority. Now my question is whether a policy or action is in service to our students. If I don’t know, I get curious and seek out their perspectives. I have much to learn, and also am so proud of what we are doing. As a faculty member shared with me in my first week, it’s a big role. It is that! And being surrounded by bright students, faculty, staff, and alumni committed to grappling with some gnarly local and global challenges makes it all worthwhile. (On a much lighter note, throughout the day, I also kept hearing the song “one week” by the Barenaked Ladies in my head…but I digress.) #hhhproud #workanniversary #peoplecentered #studentsuccess #dreambig #northstar #grateful #nofilter

Curious about what colleges are saying about my presentation? Check out this video from Rutgers University’s Diversity and Inclusion initiative and Ms. Siatta Davis. Want to bring this impactful experience to your organization? Book me at CadenTeaches.com!

Learn more about our CEO, Lisa Leander 😎 in this recent feature article.

Curious about what colleges are saying about my presentation? Check out this video from Rutgers University’s Diversity and Inclusion initiative and Ms. Siatta Davis. Want to bring this impactful experience to your organization? Book me at CadenTeaches.com!

Just finished "Lifelong Learning as a Tool for Building Your Career" by Living Corporate! Check it out: https://lnkd.in/gvAVW9qQ #lifelonglearning, #careermanagement.

Powerful Poem that I was introduced to by a speaker of the Zoomer Generation at the Blacks in Government (BIG) Regional Training conference in North Charleston, SC. For me it is a reminder that the work will continue to transform and evolve past the barriers of exclusion. This is vital to ensure that our national security and the workforce are better prepared to address the challenges of the future now. Here is the Poem by Charles Bennafield "I Am Diversity, Please Include Me I ‘m present in every place you go Depending on your lens I’m friend or foe I’m a force to be reckoned with Like the winds of change I move. I’m swift. I’m present when two or more are together If embraced I can make the good even better. I’m not limited to age, gender, or race. I’m invisible at times and yet all over the place. Don’t exclude me due to a lack of knowledge Welcome me like the recruit fresh out of college. Let me take my seat at the table Even though I may be differently able My experience, my passion the authentic me Can help add value for your company. Learn about me; improve my underrepresentation And I can provide a competitive edge to your entire nation. I exclude no one I am strengthened by all My name is Diversity and yes I stand tall. Recognize me and keep me in the mix Together there’s no problem that we can’t fix. I am your best hope towards true innovation And to many, I reflect hope and inspiration. Your lives and companies will continue to change Thus the need for Diversity and Inclusion will also remain. Do all that you can to truly embrace me And experience life’s fullness totally I’m the thought lurking behind the unfamiliar face I’m the ingenuity that helps your team win the race. I’m the solution that came from the odd question that was asked. I stand out in the crowd when I, Diversity, am allowed to be unmasked. I’m diversity embrace me and we’ll journey far. I’m Diversity include me and we will reach the shining star. Coupled with Inclusion our lights burn longer Together we are smarter, better and stronger I am Diversity Yes, that’s me" Charles Bennafield

Beyond proud to be partnering with one of my deartest friends, Darcy Lee , to support one of our favorite organizations, Women & Hi Tech and the future of female Sales and Marketing professionals in #STEM industries! 🧬💻⚙️🧮 Sales and Marketing ladies in Indiana, apply for our grant in the link 🔗 below. #saleseducationgrant #professionaldevelopment #grantapplication #womeninstem #womeninstemsales #womeninstemmarketing

Did you know we offer an Equity Scholarship for every So Now You're a Manager cohort? We've still got space in the April cohort... you should apply! The Scholarship covers the price of the SNYAM ticket, is designed to reduce inequity in leadership trainings and welcomes individuals from underrepresented groups to the SNYAM community. This includes, but is not limited to: Black people, Indigenous people and other people of color, people with disabilities, marginalized genders, LGBTI+. This is a good fit if: You are: a new manager (0-5 years experience) from an underrepresented group You work: in tech or a tech-adjacent industry (media, communications, community management, client-services) You want: a manager training program that prioritizes community and creativity Tempted to apply? DO IT! The first step towards getting what you want is asking for it. Application here: https://lnkd.in/g4d-yRd9

Just finished "Lifelong Learning as a Tool for Building Your Career" by Living Corporate! Check it out: https://lnkd.in/eJju9BYC #lifelonglearning, #careermanagement.