The Black diaspora – A Caribbean perspective S4E2 & E3 (An ‘Expanding the Roots Series’ entry) (Part 1 & 2)
My family is originally from the island of Hispanola, in particular Haiti. We migrated to Atlanta, Ga when I was sixteen months. I like to joke: I have Caribbean roots, raised in Southern soil and that makes for an awesome combination. After my eventful formative years in Atlanta, I had the privilege of attending a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Huntsville, AL where I studied psychology and Spanish. I pursued my Masters of Arts in Community Counseling. With Masters in hand, I gained valuable experience working as a mental health counselor for a number of years in the greater Washington D.C. metro area. Having gained much experience, I sought to further advance my education so I moved West, California to study Human Development and Family Studies. I have thoroughly enjoyed working in the field of social sciences in a number of capacities including counseling and currently teaching and doing applied research. During my spare time, I enjoy sports- baseball, football, soccer, tennis, swimming, etc. I also enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors options as much as possible (Although, I’ve been stuck inside due to Covid-19). I also have a passion for reading, creative expression and the Arts. I also enjoy culture, exploring local places as well as international traveling. I make it my mission to initiate and affirm humanity within my sphere of influence.
Dr. Nakisha Castillo, migrated to the US from Jamaica over 20 years ago.
She identifies as a Jamaican Filipino and is strongly connected to her Black roots. As an immigrant she has become acculturated to the American system while still maintaining her own traditional, cultural values and beliefs.
She identifies as a Jamaican Filipino and is strongly connected to her Black roots. As an immigrant she has become acculturated to the American system while still maintaining her own traditional, cultural values and beliefs.
She is committed to standing up against racial injustices and creating spaces in which all voices matter. Dr. Castillo, is an educator and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in community mental health serving minoritized and underserved populations.
In addition she is an Assistant professor of Psychology and the Director of Field Placement at her institution. She is passionate about educating individuals on how to decrease suffering and increase hope. (Dr. Castillo is an Insufferable Academics Associate Producer)
Mrs. Eulanie Lashley was born on the island of St. Vincent in the West Indies before moving with her family to the island of Antigua at the age of 9. Having completed her education in Antigua and taking her first job as a teacher, Eulanie earned a scholarship to attend a small Christian college in Massachusetts. Two years later Eulanie would move to Berrien Springs, MI to complete her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. Upon graduation, Eulanie began working in the healthcare sector as a financial analyst, completed her MBA, and has risen over time to the role of director of finance. Eulanie enjoys being the bridge between the intricacies of finance and the clinical and operational work that takes place in a hospital. She believes, that there is a special sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing that your work serves a purpose bigger than yourself and is grateful for the ability to serve the teams she works with.
In her spare time, Eulanie enjoys sewing, and consistent with her origins as an island girl, she relishes time at the beach. Eulanie and her husband are the proud parents of two beautiful children, Nathan and Natalie.