Date/Time
November 2, 2026
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Navigating Spaces Not Built for You: Finding Your Voice and Creating Space for Others
In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Crista Johnson-Agbakwu, Executive Director of the Collaborative in Health Equity at UMass Chan Medical School and UMass Memorial Health, will share lessons from a career spent leading across medicine, academia, public health, and community-based care.
Drawing from her experiences as a Black woman navigating predominantly white- and male-centered institutions, Dr. Johnson-Agbakwu will explore what it takes to overcome barriers, build credibility, find your voice, and lead with authenticity when you may not fit the traditional image of leadership.
Her story offers powerful lessons for women across the nonprofit and business sectors about resilience, relationships, mentorship, advocacy, and using your position not only to create opportunities for yourself, but to make space for others.
Participants will leave with inspiration and practical perspective on how to:
- Navigate spaces where you may be underrepresented without compromising who you are
- Build relationships, credibility, and influence in challenging environments
- Turn obstacles and lived experiences into sources of leadership and purpose
- Advocate for yourself while creating pathways for other women
- Lead meaningful change within organizations and communities
Special Guest Speakers:
Dr. Crista Johnson-Agbakwu,
Executive Director of the Collaborative in Health Equity
UMass Chan Medical School and UMass Memorial Health
&
Monica Guinn
Vice President, Benefits
NFP/TANGO
Location
Girls Inc. of Worcester