Determination, Patience, Responsibility, Listening, Learning

I have always felt a sense of responsibility for those around me, and this has led me, for better or worse, to tackle problems that I saw creating injustice, suffering or conflict in my environments.  My work in as a public health physician in Africa showed me clearly that we could not move the needle on health, or many other societal and environmental issues, unless we first empowered women. And so that became my focus and passion. Sexism, misogyny and the patriarchy are ancient and ingrained - but my determination keeps me moving.  Patience, an ability to listen, a love of learning allow me to maintain balance, move in partnership with others, and create connections, opportunities and community where they had not existed before.