Conversations with LaDarrien Gillette

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaDarrien Gillette.

Hi LaDarrien, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
As a highly driven and passionate individual committed to effecting positive change, my professional journey is deeply rooted in leadership and advocacy for social justice causes. With expertise in project management, non-profit support, and strategic planning, I have had the privilege of working across diverse sectors, collaborating with teams to implement innovative solutions to complex societal issues. In addition to my professional endeavors, my engagement in various leadership roles and mentorship programs reflects my commitment to nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of empowerment. Serving on boards, mentoring young professionals, and participating in prestigious fellowships have provided me with opportunities to inspire and uplift others while also continuing to learn and grow as a leader. 

My current role as a Senior Program Manager at CARE USA epitomizes my dedication to advancing the rights and capacities of marginalized communities. Through adapting and implementing global programs to a U.S. context, particularly focusing on empowering women and BIPOC communities, I have led strategic sessions, managed grants, and engaged stakeholders to drive sustainable change as CARE focuses on supporting communities in the U.S. 

With a diverse portfolio of community service leadership roles, I’ve demonstrated a deep commitment to empowering others and effecting positive change. Serving as a United Way YPL Board Member and a mentor for Wellspring Living and Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, I’ve utilized my skills and passion to mentor, advocate, and uplift marginalized communities. Additionally, as a Dalai Lama Fellow and Humanity in Action Fellow, I’ve engaged in impactful initiatives locally and globally. 

I currently serve as Impact Chair on the YPL United Way board, where I am responsible for planning and leading volunteer opportunities for members at large in the Atlanta area. Additionally, I am a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, where I hope to continue building my skills in non-profit development. Lastly, I continue to serve my alma mater, Spelman College, by lending myself as a speaker to engage students around careers in the social justice space. 

In my spare time, I enjoy reading and focusing on my health goals. Since the pandemic, I have been committed to a lifestyle change that includes intense physical workouts and training along with lighter activities such as yoga to ensure I stay in optimal health. My love for reading has only grown over the last few years as I continue to build out my home library that has been filled with every genre from memorable classics to popular series like Game of Thrones and Twilight. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I originally grew up in South Bend, Indiana, and was raised by my mother and grandmother. I always knew that Indiana was not the place for me, and I wanted to have the opportunity to see the World, which led me to attend Spelman College and choose International Studies as my major. Growing up with limited funds and resources was a challenge for me, as college tuition was not affordable for my family. During my time in Indiana, I worked closely with my high school counselor on my application to Spelman. 

Once I was received my acceptance letter, I worked with my counselor on securing enough funding for me to attend, which included compiling a group of recommendation letters on my behalf that we sent directly to the President of Spelman at the time. IT must have impressed her because I received a follow-up from the Director of Financial Aid a week later outlining a list of funding sources Spelman could provide to me to ensure I was able to attend. 

This has been my journey throughout life, going above and beyond to attain the things that I believe I deserve, and it has led me down a wonderful path full of lessons and learnings that I am extremely grateful for. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Engaging with the community is of utmost importance to me because it aligns with my deep-rooted commitment to social justice and my belief in the power of collective action to drive positive change. My background and leadership roles have equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and passion necessary to make a meaningful impact on the community. 

Throughout my career and life in Atlanta, I’ve demonstrated a consistent dedication to empowering marginalized groups and advocating for those in need. Whether it’s through my work at CARE USA, where I adapt global programs to address the needs of women and BIPOC communities, or my involvement with organizations like UNICEF USA and the World Affairs Council, where I spearheaded fundraising events, engaged volunteers, and facilitated discussions on critical global issues, my efforts have consistently centered around community empowerment and social justice. 

My leadership roles have allowed me to effectively leverage my skills in project management, strategic planning, and communication to mobilize resources, raise awareness, and foster dialogue within the community. By leading strategy sessions, managing programs, and representing organizations at external events, I’ve played a key role in shaping initiatives that address pressing social issues and advocate for marginalized communities. 

Overall, my background and leadership roles have had a significant impact on the community by promoting social justice, empowering marginalized groups, fostering dialogue, and driving positive change. My dedication to community engagement underscores my belief in the importance of collective action and my commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive society for all. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Look outside of your comfort zone, sometimes you can find mentors in people who you thought you would have nothing in common with. I have allowed myself to be more open to receiving help and guidance from people who come from all different backgrounds, and it has shaped me to have a better understanding of how the world works and what opportunities are available. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladarrien_g/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ladarrien-gillette/