My life has provided me with a range of experiences that help shape who I am. As a student of Anthropology, I learned how perspectives often vary and hugely differentiate the way we understand the world. Throughout my life I strive to keep a perspectives-based approach to problem solving and relationship building, believing that the first step to success is understanding others as best we can.

I've opened two successful businesses in Quito, Ecuador. Being a co-owner and founder of Community Hostel and Bandido Brewing taught me how to take ideas and make them reality. The challenges of opening two businesses in a foreign country taught me the value of adaptability. With a mindset of adaptability, any problem is solvable, any issue or interruption is merely a part of the process. To this day my adaptability remains one of my greatest strengths.

I've been a leader and facilitator for a wilderness non-profit. I led backcountry wilderness trips for adults with physical and developmental disabilities and facilitated outdoor experiential education events for under-served student communities. By helping people connect with the outdoors I was helping them build their confidence and realize that they can do anything they set their minds to, regardless of personal background or ability level.