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CSM: Explain what diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to you and why they’re important.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are all important things when working with a group of people. I have always performed better when working with a diverse group of people. When I was in college, I chose the sorority I pledged because it was diverse. I believe that if everyone in the world respected and accepted diversity, used equity and inclusion, we would have no issues and it would be a much better place.

1) Communicate the importance of all three

2) Develop a strategic training program

3) Be aware of bias behaviors

4) Acknowledge all beliefs and cultures

5) Mix up different cultures to create diverse groups of individuals

CSM: Discuss a time when you advocated for diversity and inclusion.

When I was in college at the University of Oklahoma, I went through rush. At that time, I was a little overweight and I was in the marching band. I felt like with some of the houses I was discriminated against. I finally toured a house called AXO that I loved. I loved it because they

CSM: What is the most challenging aspect of working in a diverse environment?

I can’t say I would be challenged at all by working in a diverse environment. I think the most diverse environment would be the best environment,

CSM: What is your approach to understanding the perspectives of colleagues from different backgrounds?

I always approach understanding perspectives of colleagues from different backgrounds with a positive approach. We can all learn something from each other.

CSM: How would you handle a situation where a client or a talent was being culturally insensitive, sexist, racist, or homophobic?

If this was happening around me I would sit the person down and explain to the person that it was not right to be insensitive. You have to accept all people no matter what race, what sex etc. I would not tolerate that in my business. I have always preached to my daughter that there will be all types of people around us. We have to appreciate their culture and their beliefs. I have always said I do not care if you are black, white, Asian, gay or straight. If you are nice to me, I will be nice to you. It is all about respect.

CSM: How would you advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion with brands or companies that don’t understand its importance?

The ways that I would advocate diversity, equity and inclusion with a brand or company is to made me feel included. The house was very diverse. My big sis was Filipino; my best friend in the house was from India. There were girls that were black, white, Asian etc. We did not see each other as different; we saw each other as strong women that we could learn from each other. I am still friends with some of the women today and that was over 20 years ago.

CSM: Describe an ideal brand that has a sense of inclusion, belonging, and equity on a daily basis?

The ideal brand would be my brand, KissyFit. I always try my hardest to make people feel special, loved and included. I always make everyone feel equally important to me. When it comes to being a health coach or personal trainer, it is extremely important to make every client feel important, because they are.

CSM: What steps will you take to eliminate bias from other brands or companies?

The steps that I will take to eliminate bias from other brands are to continue being myself and continue to practice good morals and ethics. Bias from other brands or companies will always be there. You just have to continue to practice what you preach and be strong. Communication and education is the key to eliminate bias.