DivInc. Champions of Change: Meet the Nominees (pt. 2)

The nominees for this year’s DivInc. Champions of Change are some of Austin’s most dynamic proponents of intentional change.

By Austin Woman

Every year, DivInc. celebrates the work of Austin’s most dynamic proponents of change through the Champions of Change awards. The following women share their life’s mission and what it means to be a Champion of Change.

Dominique McLeggan-Brown, Founder and Owner, The Sisters in Law, LLC

she/her

I am the Founder and Owner of The Sisters in Law, LLC. This is my 10th year living in Austin. My husband and I chose Austin as our home after spending several years moving around while he was in the Army. I have a Bachelor’s in History and a Master’s in Business from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas School of Law. I am a soon-to-be mom expecting twins in February.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

A Champion of Change is someone who not only speaks up but also uses their resources to find creative ways to help move the surrounding community forward.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

This nomination is a reminder that even my small voice is needed and that if small voices come together, we can make a huge impact.

Any final thoughts?

It is an honor to sit among my fellow nominees and I am inspired by the work they are doing in Austin.

Photo by Becca Matimba

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

The Sisters in Law provides a platform for minority women in the legal profession to share experiences, reflections and lessons learned throughout their careers. The Sisters in Law creates opportunities for minority women attorneys and their allies to create sisterhood and support each other through events, guest publications and informal mentorship. Most importantly, The Sisters in Law, LLC, combines many voices from across legal practice areas to take a stand for diversity, equity, inclusion, and retention.

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

Whether on our own or through collaborations with other organizations, The Sisters in Law, LLC, brings a spotlight on DEI and retention by creating opportunities for open, honest and critical discussions within the legal community.

Alyse T Gamble, H-E-B Content Specialist and IV League Fashion Model

she/her

Born and raised in Austin, I am a young trailblazer within the community. After receiving my Bachelor of Science from Texas State University, I continue to champion change by breaking boundaries through community partnership and engaging through volunteer opportunities. I tell the stories of nonprofit organizations and minority-owned suppliers within Texas.

A jack of all trades, I’ve been an H-E-B Partner for five years with extensive experience in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB); supplier diversity; public affairs; event planning; and storytelling through content marketing and producing impactful commercials. I also have experience working in the government communications sector through my relationship with the City of Buda. I have increased visibility for many business owners through fashion, film, writing and more.

Well on my way to receiving her MBA from the University of Louisiana, I hope to utilize my talents and knowledge to create a further impact through strategic planning, project management, community development and innovation. I am a forward-thinker and aspire to deepen my connection with the community while representing Afro-Latinas within my scope of work. My hobbies include wishing I had a green thumb, bridging the gaps within DEIB, exploring trails with my dog and modeling fashion campaigns for diverse brands in Texas and New York City.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

A Champion of Change is someone who shows resilience and perseverance in the face of challenge, inequity and fear on behalf of those underserved in the community.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

This nomination motivates me to continue doing my best to facilitate an inclusive and representative community. It highlights the work being done in the community and the people who are willing to dive head first to create that positive impact. I’ve never been afraid to fail, but to stop trying or to quit is one of the greatest fears one can have. Champions of Change validate all the valuable work and effort being carried out within these spaces.

Photo courtesy of Austin Young Chamber

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

IV LEAGUE, established in 2020, is a mother agency located in Austin, representing primarily models and artists of color on their way to becoming some of the fashion industry’s most successful faces and talents. Meanwhile, H-E-B serves families all over Texas and Mexico with more than 420 stores and over 145,000 Partners (employees).

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

IV League champions diversity by serving local models of color and building their portfolio, confidence and talents.

H-E-B champions this through our Be the Change initiative, which continues our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout our business and the communities we serve. Whether through diverse supplier spotlights or partnering with nonprofits, the year-round program looks to build upon our established strategic framework, driving us to be a better employer, retailer and community partner.

Sierra Peña, Co-founder and CEO, Shelfleet

she/her

I was raised in Puerto Rico, but have called Austin my home for the last decade. Over the last two years, my mission to help Austin makers turn their passions into opportunities led me to start my second business, Shelfleet.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

A Champion of Change is an individual who simply holds a vision for a better, more equitable world and becomes an advocate for making their vision a reality. Oftentimes, a Champion of Change will inspire and cultivate others into becoming leaders themselves — I think this is when the real magic starts to happen.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

This nomination has helped solidify my belief that what we are working on at Shelfleet is impacting people’s lives for the better. I hope to continue building a strong community of local makers and brands, so that we can all support and inspire each other. Longterm, I’d love to carry out our mission at Shelfleet on a global level, so stay tuned!

Photo by Major Level Creative

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

Shelfleet helps brands rent retail shelf space from existing storefronts as a way to test new markets, reach new audiences and get data from their stockists as if it were their very own bricks and mortar store. Think Airbnb for retail shelf space!

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

Most of the brands and makers we work with at Shelfleet are women and BIPOC-owned businesses, which don’t always have an opportunity to showcase their products in stores.

Our vision at Shelfleet is to create a more connected shopping experience that brings true value, transparency and choice to the end customer, beginning in Austin. We envision a world where local Austin makers and brands have the same opportunity as larger brands to get their products on the shelves of our favorite stores.

Chastiny Brown, Programs Manager, 3 Day Startup

she/her

I am a 25-year-old Programs Manager for 3 Day Startup. My passion for building, education and providing opportunity has helped me find my purpose in youth development and leadership.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

A Champion of Change is someone who realizes a vision of what “can be” but utilizes their connections and experience to create thriving spaces. A Champion of Change is someone who understands the challenges but relentlessly fights to uncover or bring awareness to a solution.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

This nomination was very unexpected but helped me to recognize the importance of extending opportunities and resources that yield tangible results. More and more youth are questioning the purpose of education in our school systems and I want to reassure them that education is valuable. You just need to find what fits you and expand on that. I don’t only want to be an example of a successful young person. I want to extend those same experiences and opportunities to my peers.

Any final thoughts?

Young people are always looking to experience life in a new and fresh way. Entrepreneurial Education not only provides youth with business savvy techniques but also provides leadership opportunities. Mentors and Educators, please remember that your impact affects the way we interact with the world around us. If we can learn to meet people where they are we can lead people to where they want to be.

Photo by Grant Loveless

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

3 Day Startup (3DS) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing youth with entrepreneurial education while being dynamic and inclusive in our approach. Our programs focus primarily on opportunity youth and aspiring founders who are in search of mentorship, education, fellowship and results that help jump-start their careers.

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

3DS has impacted many youths within the Austin community through our various programs such as the ULTRApreneur Fellowship and the Young Leaders Advisory Council. Both of these programs extend youth the opportunity to gain free entrepreneurial education, mentorship and leadership development training. Undeserved communities not only assume a lack of resources but also assume a lack of knowledge ABOUT those resources. 3DS believes that the best way to build the future is through giving the correct keys to our youth.

Nicole K. Bell, Founder/Partner, Full Humanity Consulting and Interim Manager, Staff Development and Evaluations, Austin Community College

she/her

I am a knowledge seeker, an equity warrior and a learning and development professional who strives to create spaces for liberation and learning where the learner is able to be transparent, transformed and show up in their full humanity.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

I believe a Champion of Change is willing to be an adaptive and responsive leader. So often, we are expected to just keep going with an unyielding sense of urgency or an aversion to conflict, when really we should pause to honor each other, especially during a tragic event or to have a conversation that’s needed. In order for change to transform we have to take the time to build relationships and have uncomfortable conversations.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

It is always nice to be recognized. This nomination motivates me to continue to do the work because I want liberation for those voices that go unheard and those faces that go unseen. It also motivates me to give those who are working alongside me for the greater good, their flowers now, because our time is now.

Any final thoughts?

I’m humbled and greatly appreciative of this nomination. It reminds me that there is much more work to be done and I’m energized to continue the GOOD TROUBLE of doing it.

Photo by Mr. Eric Coleman

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

In both of my professional roles as a Manager at ACC and Partner at Full Humanity Consulting, I support transformational learning spaces and change with a focus on equity, belonging and inclusion. My partners and I work with teams to assess their needs, develop individualized training and support strategic planning. We support organizations and departments to operationalize their vision for equity through policies and practices

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

At ACC we seek to equip staff with the tools and resources needed to improve equitable outcomes for students, faculty and staff. At Full Humanity, we strive to create liberated spaces where everyone can show up in their full humanity. We use disaggregated data and impact storytelling to amplify the bright spots and barriers toward actualizing equity. We curate spaces for racial healing through racial affinity circles.

Maya Guerra Gamble, Judge, 459th District Court

she/her

I am a native Austinite who has spent my career in public service and is proud to now serve as a civil and family court judge for Travis County. I work hard to bring understanding and growth to my position.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

A Champion if Change is always interested in listening and learning. And very importantly a Champion of Change must work hard to continue to grow themselves, to both give and receive feedback and education. Anyone striving to improve conditions in our communities must embrace the difficult and painful parts of change as well as the joyous parts.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

The nomination makes me realize that while my focus is primarily on what happens in the 459th court, the effects of that work are seen and felt much further. So I am inspired to continue meeting new people and learning from them. I want to bring the best of everything into my courtroom. I want to challenge myself to do better every day.

Any final thoughts?

Thank you so much not just for this opportunity for myself but for focusing on the other nominees. I am thrilled to be included with such amazing women.

Photo courtesy of Maya Guerra Gamble

Tell us in three sentences what you do.

I am a civil and family court judge and hear cases ranging from divorces to multimillion-dollar business cases to injury cases and everything in between. In my role as a judge, it is important for me to be involved in as many of the communities in Travis County as possible. I work hard to bring innovative strategies to my courtroom, like a jury instruction on unconscious bias.

How do you champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

The Courts and the Judges work for every single person in Travis County and in Texas. My work is personal to the litigants but also personal to the people and businesses of the larger community. I strive for openness and an atmosphere of learning and listening in my courtroom.

Sanika Bhave, Gen Z Climate VC, Capital Factory

she/her/hers

Howdy! I’m Sanika, a daughter of immigrants and a firm believer in community. For me, those two go hand in hand. The former allowed me to appreciate the beauty of the latter, and the latter made me feel pride in the former. I apply both of these identities in my work as a Venture Associate on Capital Factory’s venture team. I’m also an active environmentalist, a card-carrying Austin Public Library and Cap Metro fanatic and a fan of dancing at two-step spots around Austin.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

I think this is so subjective, but to me a large part of it lies in listening to folks, not to respond but to understand. And then, of course, doing what’s possible to turn that understanding into action.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

Honestly, I feel uncomfortable with this nomination. I’ve been out of college for just a few short months and feel like I haven’t earned this in the slightest. But I’m motivated to one day feel like I’ve earned it by the incredible people I’m getting to stand next to. I’m learning that change can occur in various ways and that carrying compassion and challenge into your interpersonal relationships can be change enough and I’m motivated to continue to understand how different people view change in different ways. I’ve been in the professional community for a short time, but hope to pour more compassion and challenge into it.

Any final thoughts?

We only have one earth, let’s take care of it. Yeehaw!

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

Capital Factory is the center of gravity for entrepreneurship in Texas. We support this through events to build community, a space for entrepreneurs to build and experience serendipity and a venture fund to help accelerate the next ideas that are going to change the world.

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

Capital Factory lends its platform to provide visibility to historically underrepresented groups in tech. This includes hosting events like Latinx in Tech, Women in Tech, Black in Tech and LGBTQ+ in Tech. This is a small example of an overall mission to advance opportunities within entrepreneurship and tech for all regardless of background and is at the core of Capital Factory’s mission.

Amy Maldonado, Global Inclusion Programs Coordinator, Indeed

she/her/hers/ella

I am a first-generation Mexican-American Latina, born and raised in Austin. I have been at Indeed for about four years and have had just as many roles all preparing me for what I consider my passion and my current role, Global Inclusion Programs Coordinator. I support our employee resource groups globally in any capacity that is needed whether it’s providing resources for guidance or supporting event production. Outside of work, I enjoy volunteering whenever I can and Olympic weightlifting.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

In starting a conversation where you discuss diversity, equity or inclusion, you will find that you begin to bring awareness to communities that weren’t originally thought of. By taking the time to listen and to reflect, you begin to expand your understanding of what other communities go through. It took time to change your way of thinking and when you start this conversation with someone new, you have now opened up a whole new world to them. They’re going to start looking at the world differently whether it’s starting to do the research or taking the time to listen to others outside of their communities. This is how you help build a world full of champions of change.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

After taking the time to learn, listen, research and ask questions, being a nominee motivates me to speak up louder and encourage those around me to speak up. Being Latina and growing up in a traditional Mexican household, DEI is a topic I find myself getting extremely passionate about when you learn the opposite of compassion for communities that are not yours. It’s no longer enough to have a seat at any table, I want to have a voice at every single table I can find and not just be listened to, but heard. I want to give a voice to those who don’t feel like they have one or are scared to speak up because they’re afraid of ruffling up a few feathers.

Photo courtesy of Amy Maldonado

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

Indeed helps people get jobs. Even more so, we help all people get all jobs by ensuring the products we build are as diverse and accessible as possible. We do so by hiring employees that have their own lived experiences and that are reflective of the employers and job seekers we help.

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community? 

Indeed does quite a few things to help where it can. We host job help services in person through a team called Job Squad. We partner with Code2College. Through our Social Impact team we also fundraise for Finding Home ATX and volunteer for The Point in Time (PIT) Count. Recently, we also reached our goal of helping millions of job seekers facing barriers.

Wendy Howell, CEO and Founder, Executive Council Network

she/her

I am a people alchemist. My true passion is creating connections and building community for good. I am a staunch advocate for giving back and am deeply involved in non-profit. My work here includes being Managing Director of Girls In Tech, Co-Chair 50/50 Women On Boards, a passionate supporter of Code To College, board member of The Kindness Campaign, former chair of Girl Scouts of Central Texas Women Of Distinction, Co-Chair STEM Scouts and a judge for TiE Young Entrepreneurs.

I spend a great deal of time mentoring, fundraising, volunteering and speaking. I am particularly passionate about supporting females, the underserved and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. I consider myself a ‘rebel with a cause’ and have a dogged tenacity to support these passions. I have had the incredible opportunity to impact people across the globe and right here in our own backyard. Nothing excites me more than creating positive social impact and working to catalyze the next generation of empowered leaders.

What do you believe exemplifies a “Champion of Change”?

I am an adamant believer in action vs. words. A true “Champion of Change” is out in the community actively creating programs and systems that are driving real change, sometimes against all odds. I have strong belief in the tenet: “the power of partnerships: better together”. Collaboration and combining efforts across all of our like-minded organizations and individuals will allow us to accomplish so much more in our pursuit of a diverse, equitable and inclusive society.

How does this nomination motivate you to do more in the community?

I am always motivated to do more in and around our community. This just brings to the forefront the incredible importance of this type of work in and around Austin. Seeing the other people have been nominated across multiple significantly important categories is a testament to how critical this issue is to all of us that consider ourselves Champions of Change. It is inspiring to see so many amazing leaders that are equally as passionate. That, in itself, is motivational to me!

Any final thoughts?

Motto: Connections, Community, Impact!

Photo courtesy of Austin Woman magazine

Tell us in three sentences what your business/organization does.

Executive Council Network is a value-based invite-only leadership group where we have created a space for executives to experience community, connection, growth and social impact. We offer events, executive brand elevation via our partner ecosystem and exclusive investment and equity opportunities through our venture fund and syndicate.

How does your business/organization champion equity, inclusion and belonging in the Austin community?

Together we are stronger. Executive Council Network partners with numerous organizations that are driving this work within our community. It is a long list. However, to name a few: Capital Factory, Austin Woman magazine, UT Center For Global Business, DivInc, Texas Women In Business, WICT, Girl Scouts of Central Texas, The Mentor Project, Robotters, Startup Ecosystem Community Support Group, UT Girl Day.

Part 1, Part 3

The DivInc. Champions of Change awards will take place on Thursday, March 2 at Distribution Hall.