There’s something about the power of a story. Today, I share my story of how I became a diplomat with the hopes to inspire and encourage. If you would have told me in high school that I would represent my country one day, I wouldn’t have believed you because I didn’t know this world existed. To watch the full video, click on the link in my bio. 
2020 is not for the faint of heart. This year has definitely reinforced that each day is a blessing. I’m so thankful to see another year. #chapter29 📸 @hawi_tilahune 
Representation is CRITICAL. I remember when I first began pursuing a career in international affairs. It was difficult to find the stories of black women killing the game in international affairs, let alone in the Foreign Service. Cognizant of the social justice taking place in our country, coupled with my own personal experiences, I felt the need to create this resource (link in the bio) during my social media hiatus. My goals are to: - Empower and encourage women of color to travel with confidence - Connect women of color and first generation passport holders to career and academic opportunities in international affairs - Educate people of color about the Foreign Service If you feel led, please share this on your social media and/or subscribe. Thank you to @gilliansarahdesign and @_abrownman for all your support. #diplonoire #womeninforeignpolicy #travel #diversity #stories #travelgram 
The end of the semester in grad school is brutal. But it’s just school. In every season, no matter what’s going on, find something to laugh about ♥️ 
I always like to hear people’s stories to see how they got to where they are today. I shared my “travel story” of how I lived and worked/interned in India, Spain, China, and Vietnam. I hope it’s useful to someone. 
Don’t be afraid to let your light shine ❤️ 
@blackgirltravelslay and I hosted our first event yesterday. There’s an undeniable electric energy that takes place when a group of women get together and exchanges ideas, tips, and experiences. We talked about traveling, entrepreneurship, branding, accountability and the importance of helping others in our spheres of influence. There was no pettiness or division. It was a time to uplift and encourage each other to be fearless in pursuing our wildest dreams. I learned a lot yesterday and hope the women did too. Thank you for all who came out. Thank you: @blackgirltravelslay for simply being amazing. @travelbiteswithemily for the amazing photos and photoshoot giveaway. @missaisha__ thank you for the gorgeous pictures . @blackgirlsunscreen for the sunscreen giveaway There’s a blog post on my site: 5 Lessons from Co-Hosting My First Meet and Greet 
I spoke with students at my alma mater yesterday. It was good to be back at Juniata (June-ee-ah-tah) @instajuniatacollege after 5 years. When I spoke with the students I shared my path and reminded them I was sitting where they are....literally. I told them: 1. It’s okay not have your life figured out. But follow what feels right and say yes to opportunities that come your way. Also, actively search. Don’t be passive. 2. Intern, volunteer, study abroad. If you’re looking at internships for next summer, a lot of places have deadlines in the fall. You have to get experience in college. Take advantage of programs such as the Critical Language Scholarship, Boren, Rangel Scholars program. Apsia. Etc. 3. I was a sociology major. I told the sociology students to learn a skill too (i.e., learn a critical language, learn how to do graphic design, etc） 4. It doesn’t matter what people think of you: take risks. One student was afraid because people judged her for wanting to teach English abroad after graduation and not getting a “real job.” I told her to do it and don’t look back. 5. Have a dream career in mind? Look at the job description and see what they require. Then start working on gaining those skills. When you are ready to apply you will be the person they are looking for.