Okwera Academy’s Post

It’s hard to believe how fast the last six months at Strava have flown by! Reflecting on this journey, I'm deeply grateful for the opportunities I've had to make a meaningful impact through projects centered around AR and DEI. DEI is not only a fundamental part of Strava’s mission but also a critical business imperative for building a stronger, more resilient, and innovative organization. Below are two recent experiences that underscore this work: Talent Unscripted: Together with Camille H. Tate, we hosted a networking event here in San Francisco to create genuine connections between talent and Strava’s hiring managers. This event was a step towards broadening our network and bringing diverse voices into our rapidly growing team, supporting Strava’s commitment to inclusive hiring and creating space for underrepresented talent. Equity Programs: With the help from Andrés Roughan, Elisa Valdez de Ramírez, Rosamaría G., and so many passionate individuals, we brought the second SOMOS Summit to life—a two-day event rich with programming, celebrating culture, sharing insights, and amplifying our voices within the Latinx community. Representation is powerful, and witnessing our community come together was truly inspiring. Events like this highlight how deeply DEI is embedded in our culture at Strava, empowering voices and driving meaningful change. What stands out most in these six months is the chance to engage across the organization, from supporting ERG leads to facilitating conversations that elevate diverse perspectives. DEI work is not just a nice-to-have; it's the foundation for cultivating a workforce that reflects the world we live in. It strengthens teams, drives innovation, and reinforces Strava's commitment to our community. Check out our DEI & Hiring pages to learn more: https://www.strava.com/dei

It’s the Final Day of #CivicImaginationWeek. I’m going to keep this one simple. I’m thrilled to share the release of #TheFuturesHappeningPlaybook, a free, nonpartisan guide to designing more generative and joyful civic gatherings. https://lnkd.in/gJE5NmZH This playbook was inspired by the award winning gathering we hosted at The Stanford d.school earlier this year. Following the event, we received requests from educators, community and civic leaders, and even the First Lady of Albuquerque ,NM who asked: "How can we incorporate a 'Futures Happening' approach into our community?" The Playbook focuses on empowering all of us to become Civic Futurists - to actively shape better futures through civic imagination, creative possibility, and collective impact. As we say in the Playbook: A “Futures Happening” approach invites exploration into alternative futures by shifting the frame from reacting to “what is” to envisioning “what could be.” It encourages all of us to see ourselves as active builders of our community’s future rather than passive recipients of decisions made by others. The creation of The Futures Playbook is an embodiment of the 5 principles we outline in the guide. 1. Lead with Creative Imagination How can we spark more expansive imagination and vivid exploration of the futures we want (even if the path ahead is unclear)? 2. Promote Multiple Perspectives How can we foster more authentic curiosity, empathetic learning, and active listening to diverse voices? 3. Elevate Bright Spots How can we identify and amplify our community’s unique strengths, assets, and successes to inspire more impactful and resonant civic gatherings? 4. Make it Experiential How can we inspire feeling and holistic experiences filled with generative opportunities to engage, connect, and co-create? 5. Hone the Production What resources and support are required to execute the experience in congruent and consistent ways? We invite you to take a look. Share it with others. Report back what resonates. Finally, there are dozens of civic futurists that inspired, co-created and contributed to making this resource a reality. Scott Doorley Jeffrey Rogers Ruth Wylie Nancy Murphy Nils Gilman Suzette Brooks Masters Karthick Ramakrishnan Edgar Ibarra Gutierrez Jake Dunagan Ilana Lipsett Eric Liu Susie Chang Anne Gomez Rubin Molina Speaks Shamichael Hallman Civics Unplugged Sanda Balaban Citizen Film The Team Sesame Workshop Laura McBain sam seidel Kwaku Aning Adene Sacks Monique DeVane Tim Fish David Martinez Karina R. Kloos Civics Unplugged Debilyn Molineaux Diana Smith Chris Loos Ahmed Best Liz Gerber (she/her) Caroline Klibanoff Listen First Project Kristin J. Hansen and so many others. And, thank you, my brilliant partner Franzi Sessler, and your tireless Kreatives team, who always elevate our biggest visions into something even greater. And you do it with joy and love. ❤️

Passed Over for the Promotion… Again. Here’s How I accionvegana Forward Anyway. 😞 Three times. That’s how many times a client was passed over for a promotion they were ready for. 💔 First time: "Maybe I’m not ready." 💔 Second time: "That role wasn't for me." 💔 Third time: They’d done the work, but still… nothing. The problem? Visibility — not readiness. They had the skills. They had the experience. But they weren’t being seen. Waiting for a "tap on the shoulder" doesn’t work. So, they stopped waiting. Here’s what they did: ✨ Increased visibility ✨ Advocated for themselves ✨ Positioned themselves as the obvious choice It’s not about bragging — it’s about being seen. 💡 Still waiting to be "discovered"? Stop. Advocate for yourself. No one tells your story better than you. 💬 Ever been passed over for a role you knew you were ready for? Drop a 💔 if this resonates. 👉🏾 Want to be seen for your value? Join SiSTEM Circle to increase visibility, advocate for your worth, and secure your next opportunity. https://conta.cc/49g8qeO #CareerGrowth #STEMWomen #WomenInLeadership #AdvocateForYourself #BlackWomenInSTEM #SiSTEMCircle #VisibilityIsPower

It’s impossible to capture two days of my #BFUTR2024 experience in a 60-second clip and a few lines, but here’s a glimpse into this unforgettable experience! From connecting with leading employers like TD RBC Amazon Intuit TELUS Bell CIBC Deloitte Scotiabank, to gaining fresh industry insights and hearing firsthand the journeys of inspiring Black professionals. My first #BFUTR was nothing short of transformative. I am incredibly honored to have also served as an ambassador and contribute, even in a small way, to the success of this impactful event. Here are some unforgettable highlights: 📌 Learning and Inspiration The main stage featured powerful speeches and conversations, like one from the founder Lekan Olawoye on BFUTR's mission to eliminate bias and drive equal access to opportunity, and insights from Licenia Rojas on the importance of taking action and upskilling in emerging tech. Nosa Ero-Brown shared her journey, reminding us of the power of resilience in public service, and several other panel discussions that included overcoming imposter syndrome and burnout left us with real strategies for navigating career roadblocks. Just to mention a few from the many amazing sessions. 📌Career Resources I had a chance to get live headshots, courtesy of LinkedIn, and explore Black Entrepreneur Square, which showcased the latest in innovation from Black-owned brands. Seeing these products and services up close was a great reminder of the entrepreneurial talent and creativity within our community. 📌 Networking and Community The energy in the networking lounges was incredible. Everyone was eager to connect, share stories, and exchange advice. And, of course, the after-party with Ja Rule was the perfect way to wrap up such an inspiring, community-focused event! #BFUTR2024 left me energized, inspired, and more hopeful than ever about the future of Black professionals. The insights I gained, the connections I made, and the visions I saw of what’s possible are experiences I will carry forward in my career journey. Thank you, Obsidi®, for creating this amazing platform for us to thrive and connect! #CareerGrowth #CareerNetworking #Diversity #TorontoTech #ProfessionalDevelopment #Networking #Obsidi

When an article titled "Microsoft Alum Launches Hey, Black Seattle!: A Hub of Connection for the African Diaspora in the Emerald City" landed in my inbox yesterday, I had to find out more! I feel one of the greatest missed opportunities for #diasporaengagement is reframing our thinking on the topic to explore its impact in the private sector & beyond. I learnt more about Kiesha Garrison & her work via the Forbes article below and I encourage everyone to read it. Brilliant to see the Microsoft diaspora (yes, companies have diasporas too!) bridge out their passion and expertise for community impact. Within much of the discussion around Employee Resource Groups, DEI, and more in the private sector, we need to start thinking diaspora more and more. Diaspora engagement can be a powerful conductor of belonging and purpose for corporates. Make no mistake about it either, if we look at some of the corporate powerhouses in the world, diaspora talent is leading the way from the frontline to C-Suite. This is a hidden in plain sight opportunity for corporates and diaspora engagement but it is on us to shine that light. Wonderful to see stories like Hey, Black Seattle pinpoint the way forward for what diaspora engagement can bring for communities --- power. Onwards. https://lnkd.in/eS43P86C

"I believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are insufficient without belonging...the science of belonging says that people have to feel rewarded, seen, recognized, and valued in order to feel like they belong." This insightful quote by Google Chief Diversity Officer Melonie D. Parker serves as the basis of our next Virtual Black Community Support session -- A Culture of Belonging -- on Friday, Dec. 20, at 1 p.m. How can you attract, recruit, and cultivate a workplace of team members, adding to your company's culture what may be missing to be more inclusive? Empac's Laila Robinson, BA, EAP Intern, will lead this session. Please remember this session is reserved exclusively for those within the black community to provide a safe space for processing experiences or concerns. Also, please see below for a video you may watch before the session. However, we will also show it DURING our session. You do NOT have to watch it ahead of time to join us. Access the video here: https://lnkd.in/ghZaGKxV RSVP now to laila@empac-eap.com. Meeting details/link will be sent to you. See more about Laila and all our experts who can help you thrive: https://lnkd.in/gW_mggQ6. #Empac #EmployeeAssistanceProgram #EmpacEAP #EmpacWichita #EmployeeHelp #EmployeeResources #EAPCounseling #Nonprofit

Passed Over for the Promotion… Again. Here’s How I accionvegana Forward Anyway. 😞 Three times. That’s how many times a client was passed over for a promotion they were ready for. 💔 First time: "Maybe I’m not ready." 💔 Second time: "That role wasn't for me." 💔 Third time: They’d done the work, but still… nothing. The problem? Visibility — not readiness. They had the skills. They had the experience. But they weren’t being seen. Waiting for a "tap on the shoulder" doesn’t work. So, they stopped waiting. Here’s what they did: ✨ Increased visibility ✨ Advocated for themselves ✨ Positioned themselves as the obvious choice It’s not about bragging — it’s about being seen. 💡 Still waiting to be "discovered"? Stop. Advocate for yourself. No one tells your story better than you. 💬 Ever been passed over for a role you knew you were ready for? Drop a 💔 if this resonates. 👉🏾 Want to be seen for your value? Join SiSTEM Circle to increase visibility, advocate for your worth, and secure your next opportunity. https://conta.cc/49g8qeO #CareerGrowth #STEMWomen #WomenInLeadership #AdvocateForYourself #BlackWomenInSTEM #SiSTEMCircle #VisibilityIsPower

🌟 Reflecting on the Just Concluded Tech and Connect Summer Party 2024 🌟 I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the Tech and Connect Summer Party: Black Women Meet Black Men in Tech in the UK. This event was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful reminder of the strength, talent, and innovation that exists within our community. From the moment I arrived, I was surrounded by passionate and driven individuals who are making waves in the tech industry. The energy was palpable, and the conversations were enriching. It was a privilege to connect with so many brilliant minds, each with their unique stories and experiences. One of the highlights for me was when Flavilla Fongang and her team spoke about the importance of having Black women involved in tech. Their insights and dedication were truly inspiring. I had the chance to speak with numerous attendees and hear their stories of resilience, creativity, and perseverance. These conversations provided valuable advice on navigating the tech landscape and emphasized the importance of community and support. Here are a few key takeaways from the event: 1. **Networking is Key**: Building connections with fellow professionals can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. The power of a strong network cannot be overstated. 2. **Community Matters**: Finding and fostering a supportive community can significantly impact your professional and personal growth. Being part of a network that understands and uplifts each other is invaluable. 3. **Representation is Crucial**: Seeing successful Black professionals in tech is motivating and reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry. Representation matters, and it inspires the next generation to pursue their dreams in tech. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to attend this event and for the new connections I made. It was a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where we can come together, share, and uplift one another. Thank you to the organizers Tech London Advocates & Global Tech Advocates for putting together such a phenomenal event and to everyone who attended for making it so memorable. A special shoutout to Olufunke Ajenifuja and Elizabeth Odioko for their contributions and efforts in making this event a success for me. I’m looking forward to seeing the continued impact of our collective efforts in the tech industry. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, supporting one another, and driving change. #TechAndConnect #BlackInTech #Networking #Community #DiversityInTech #Inspiration #Gratitude #TechEvent2024 #RepresentationMatters

🌟 Join Us for the Black Talent Initiative Friday Meet-Up! 🌟 Are you ready to connect, learn, and grow with a community dedicated to uplifting Black professionals? Mark your calendar for July 12, 2024, because you won't want to miss this empowering event! 🤝✨ At this meet-up, we’ll be coming together to create career advancement systems that uplift, affirm, and support Black folks—no more shaming, harming, or holding us back. It’s time to build pathways to success that honour our talents and dreams. I’m excited to share my personal journey from employee to entrepreneur, and how fulfilling it is to embody our ancestors’ wildest dreams. From overcoming challenges to celebrating victories, I’ll be discussing how we can all achieve greatness while staying true to ourselves and our heritage. This is more than just a networking event; it’s a celebration of our collective strength, resilience, and potential. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take it to the next level, this meet-up is the perfect place to find inspiration, support, and actionable strategies for success. 💪🏿✨ Come and be part of a movement that’s transforming the way we advance in our careers. Let’s lift each other up and pave the way for a brighter future. See you there! 🌟 #BlackTalentInitiative #CareerAdvancement #BlackExcellence #EntrepreneurJourney #CommunitySupport #UpliftBlackVoices #ProfessionalGrowth #NetworkingEvent #Empowerment #BlackProfessionals #JoinTheMovement #FollowForMore

🌟 Join Us for the Black Talent Initiative Friday Meet-Up! 🌟 Are you ready to connect, learn, and grow with a community dedicated to uplifting Black professionals? Mark your calendar for July 12, 2024, because you won't want to miss this empowering event! 🤝✨ At this meet-up, we’ll be coming together to create career advancement systems that uplift, affirm, and support Black folks—no more shaming, harming, or holding us back. It’s time to build pathways to success that honour our talents and dreams. I’m excited to share my personal journey from employee to entrepreneur, and how fulfilling it is to embody our ancestors’ wildest dreams. From overcoming challenges to celebrating victories, I’ll be discussing how we can all achieve greatness while staying true to ourselves and our heritage. This is more than just a networking event; it’s a celebration of our collective strength, resilience, and potential. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take it to the next level, this meet-up is the perfect place to find inspiration, support, and actionable strategies for success. 💪🏿✨ Come and be part of a movement that’s transforming the way we advance in our careers. Let’s lift each other up and pave the way for a brighter future. See you there! 🌟 #BlackTalentInitiative #CareerAdvancement #BlackExcellence #EntrepreneurJourney #CommunitySupport #UpliftBlackVoices #ProfessionalGrowth #NetworkingEvent #Empowerment #BlackProfessionals #JoinTheMovement #FollowForMore