Creating Opportunity for Small Businesses
Helping entrepreneurs strengthen their ideas, pursue financing, and navigate Chicago's ecosystem of business resources.
My Story
My Story Has Always Been Connected to Opportunity
Education opened doors for me. It introduced me to new possibilities, challenged me to think beyond what I could immediately see, and taught me that access to the right information, support, and relationships can change the direction of a person's life.
Throughout my career, I've worked at the intersection of business, government, philanthropy, education, and community. That work hasn't always placed me in the day-to-day operations of one neighborhood — it gave me a broader view of Chicago and how community development actually happens. I've been in the rooms where partnerships were formed, funding decisions were discussed, programs were designed, and investments were directed. I've worked alongside businesses, financial institutions, corporations, public agencies, universities, nonprofits, and community leaders.
That experience taught me how systems work. I've seen neighborhoods benefit when institutions communicate, resources are coordinated, and leadership is prepared to move an idea from conversation to action. I've also seen strong communities and talented people left waiting — not because they lacked vision, ability, or determination, but because they were disconnected from the information, resources, relationships, and decision-making that could help them move forward.
Through my work in small business and economic development, I've helped entrepreneurs strengthen their ideas, prepare for growth, pursue financing, understand government programs, and connect with banks, corporations, universities, and community partners. I've seen firsthand how much talent exists across Chicago — and how much harder people must work when access is limited and systems are difficult to navigate.
“I am running because the 6th Ward deserves a leader who understands how systems work — and knows how to make them work for the people.”
I'm not running because I believe one person can solve every challenge. I'm running because I know how to bring people together, navigate complex systems, build partnerships, and move ideas toward action. I'm ready to bring my experience, relationships, research, and commitment home to the 6th Ward.
Together, we can create a ward where opportunity is not determined by ZIP code, residents are connected to resources, businesses are positioned to grow, and families can see a future in the communities they already call home.
