What is your role at Avison Young?

Consultant- Business Intelligence & Technology.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

By initially working with the local Chicago Municipality to create and rollout a city-wide platform targeted towards mobilizing Chicago residents to engage with local parks, city venues, and programs. This peaked my interest in location strategy, technology, and portfolio optimization/ asset strategy.

What does inclusion mean to you?

Inclusion = intellectual and financial equity, respect for identity and experience, and equal exposure to opportunity and adversity.

Give us an example of inclusion in action at the workplace.

Having the opportunity to lead, pitch, and drive new business within your division for clients of all sizes and types. No longer should colleagues of color only be tapped for meetings with clients that have a diverse CEO or C-suite representative.

What's an impactful way that professionals can be an ally for underrepresented groups in the workplace?

Use your voice to interject, raise a red flag, or create teaching moments when you are present for conversations or moments that undermine your fellow colleagues who are people of color.

What has been your experience being in an underrepresented group in a historically non-diverse industry?

My experience has improved over time based on the presence of leaders like John Rogers, Troy Jenkins, and Rob Slaughter who have continued to demand, execute, and achieve, serving as proof for the tangible financial return that diversity and inclusion can bring. Their accomplishments have paved the way for emerging professionals like myself.