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Kisha Bird
Travel + Culture + Justice - Advocate making the world better. I help Black people across the diaspora travel to Africa and connect with their roots.
Professional Background
Kisha Bird is a seasoned youth advocate and public policy professional who has dedicated her career to enhancing the lives of youth through effective public policy and program development. With extensive experience in the non-profit and philanthropic sectors, she has built a robust track record of advocating for youth development, workforce policies, and pathways for reentry and education. Kisha has notably aligned her work with a focus on racial and gender equity, prioritizing the needs of opportunity youth and those impacted by the criminal justice system.
Kisha's career spans numerous prestigious positions, where she has utilized her expertise to develop innovative solutions to complex social issues. As an Independent Consultant, Kisha provides invaluable insight into equity and social justice issues. Her previous role as the Director of Youth Policy at the Center for Law and Social Policy allowed her to shape and influence policies at both the state and national levels. Furthermore, her experience as a Senior Policy Analyst/Project Director for the Campaign for Youth at the same center sharpened her skills in policy analysis, strategy formulation, and stakeholder engagement.
Kisha's commitment to youth advocacy is evident in her work with various organizations including the Center for Schools and Communities, where she served as the Project Director for the PA Statewide Afterschool and Youth Development Network, collaborating with local communities to promote youth engagement and workforce readiness. She also has contributed to academia as an Adjunct Instructor at Temple University, where she educated the next generation of urban studies scholars about the dynamics of community development and social policy.
Kisha Bird's extensive network and ability to foster relationships have made her a national leader in providing technical assistance to states and local communities. Her skills in coalition building and community organizing have led to the creation of impactful programs that support youth and promote sustainable development practices focused on social equity.
Education and Achievements
Kisha Bird's educational background is rooted in a strong foundation in social work and law, having studied for her MSS/MLSP (Master of Social Work/Master of Law and Social Policy) at Bryn Mawr College. This advanced education equipped her with not only the theoretical framework to understand social issues but also the legal and policy insights necessary for advocating for change.
Prior to her graduate studies, Kisha earned her Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Spelman College, a historically black college known for empowering women of African descent. This educational experience played a key role in shaping her understanding of societal structures and disparities, particularly affecting marginalized communities.
Throughout her career, Kisha has achieved significant milestones that highlight her dedication to her work. As the founder of Travel Deeper Inc, she created opportunities for dialogue and education around social issues, encouraging individuals to understand and engage with the world through a lens of equity and justice. Her leadership at various organizations underscores her ability to drive initiatives that elevate youth voices and promote their participation in civic life.
Notable Achievements
Aside from her educational accomplishments and wealth of professional experience, Kisha Bird has received recognition for her unwavering commitment to social justice and community improvement. Her leadership roles across various organizations have enabled her to secure critical funding and build coalitions that attract diverse stakeholders, making her an influential figure in the realm of youth advocacy.
Kisha's contributions have extended beyond local boundaries, as she has been an integral part of national efforts to reform policies affecting youth and families. By providing technical assistance, she has empowered states and communities to implement effective federal policies, ensuring they align with the needs of their constituents and promote equity across diverse populations. Her facilitative skills have led to effective partnerships that thrive on collaboration and community input, bringing about meaningful and sustainable change.
As a frequent public speaker, Kisha inspires many through her engagements, where she shares her knowledge and insights on topics such as youth empowerment, workforce development, and the intricate relationships between policy and social equity. This has not only established her as a thought leader in her field but has also allowed her to mentor emerging professionals in the sector.
In summary, Kisha Bird is an accomplished youth advocate and public policy professional whose life’s work is focused on promoting social equity and developing programs that empower youth. Her educational journey, marked by significant degrees and her professional trajectory is characterized by leadership and innovation. Acknowledged for her extensive expertise and impactful work in the field, Kisha continues to contribute to the betterment of society by advocating for youth development, championing successful pathways for opportunity youth, and addressing key issues related to racial and gender equity in public policy.
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