All of my work is motivated by the practice of active hope. Active hope, as explored by Joanna Macy, is the idea that even amid global challenges, it is possible to foster hope through action. For me, having active hope means being driven to make a meaningful impact in my community, supported by diverse relationships and experiences. Whether through academic pursuits, community-based projects, or international collaborations, I am driven by active hope which has motivated me to develop skills and knowledge to bridge gaps between diverse groups, foster intercultural dialogue, and champion social change.

I am deeply committed to education. As a program assistant and sessional instructor for the Universidad de Oriente-University of Alberta Cuba Study Abroad Program over the last 8 years, I have sought to facilitate transformative learning experiences for students from both Cuba and Canada, enabling community service-learning opportunities and immersive educational exchanges. I support students in gaining practical, global insights and encourage them to develop a critical understanding of international issues through collaborative, hands-on learning. In this role, I have also had the opportunity to build lasting relationships with local organizations such as the Cuban Institute of Friendship, the Saíz Brothers Association, Casa del Caribe, La Casa de Las Tradiciones, among others. Through these collaborations, I have worked to bridge the gap between global solidarity and local realities to build capacity for international cooperation. This is work I will continue building upon as I pursue my PhD in Political Science at the U of A with a focus on Cuba, international political economy, and migration. 

Similarly, in my work as a research associate for the Prentice Institute for Global Population and Economy, I have made significant contributions to projects related to evaluating and understanding education systems and policy in Alberta and across Canada. In light of increasing classroom complexity and widespread teacher shortages, it is essential to build a strong education system that supports the needs of educators and students.

Being involved in community-driven projects and local initiatives is another way I have sought to contribute to social change. I am a passionate advocate for gender equality, social justice, and the rights of marginalized communities. At the U of A and Carleton University, I have driven initiatives advocating for 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-racism, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) programs and policy development. As a volunteer with the Laurier Heights Community League, I have supported the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign, raising funds to support the work of organizations such as the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, and contributing to awareness and education. Additionally, as the marketing lead for the Global Shapers Edmonton Hub, I have contributed to projects with a focus on areas related to inclusion, skills, health, aid, the planet, and engagement. I also teach yoga with the Canucks Autism Network, creating accessible and inclusive yoga spaces for neurodiverse individuals. 

Overall, my commitment to active hope drives me to engage in diverse, meaningful work across education, research, community advocacy, and international cooperation, all aimed at fostering social change and addressing global and local challenges.