In celebration of Black History Month, we are honored to share an exclusive interview with Carolyn Kidd, a stalwart advocate for diversity and empowerment. With decades of experience in Human Resources and community service, Carolyn discusses the challenges of today’s socio-political climate, her proudest achievements, and the historical figures who inspire her enduring commitment to leadership and service. Dive into Carolyn’s profound insights on navigating change with resilience and empathy.
Can you share your thoughts on the current state of affairs in our community/nation and the impact it has on your work?
As a person who has been protected by affirmative action and DEI policies, I will use my resilience to adapt to the rapidly changing workforce and business environment that no longer prioritizes affirmative action and DEI policies and practices. There are companies in the US that have explicitly stated gender diversity goals such as dictating that 50 percent of leadership must be women. Today, most companies are moving away from these goals.
The impact motivates my work and walk to share with persons across the African and indigenous diaspora that love always concurs fear. My voice will be heard on panels for Women History Month, and in spaces where education and mentorship are being fostered. Whatever the current climate, I will remain strong and resilient as my existence is far beyond any affirmative action or DEI policy, as I know “this too shall pass.” We live in a global society where people, laws and policies appear dictate who you are, even alluding that you are a substandard human and should be invisible. My brothers and sisters, therein lies a huge opportunity to grow resilience with empathy and love to overcome. Let us stand strong and speak our ancestral truth into existence; knowing our destiny has been established and no one can take it away. STAY STRONG, and SHINE!
What achievements in your career are you most proud of, and why?
There are several moments in my career I am proud of. From thirty-plus years of human resources and customer service nationally and internationally to serving on several Boards and Commissions in Arizona. I am the Chair of Commission of Diversity Awareness (CODA) for the City of Flagstaff, a Board member of Arizona Adult Lifelong Learning (AALL), a member of Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE); Mountain Plains Adult Education Association (MPAEA); Creative Flagstaff Grants Committee; City of Flagstaff Equity Advisory Group; and Anti Discrimination/Anti Bias Committee for FUSD. I am proud to be a True Colors International Certified Facilitator providing adult training and development for personal temperament and change. The most important achievement in my career was being elected to the Flagstaff United School District (FUSD) in November, 2024 to ensure quality education is equally disseminated though our education system.
As we celebrate Black History Month, are there any historical figures who have particularly inspired you or influenced your approach to leadership and service?
Nelson Mandela. His style, traits, and skills had some powerful and impactful leadership qualities, as follows:
He was a unifier: Nelson Mandela is known for his fight for black people’s rights. As South African president, he worked to make unity amongst all people. Mandela said he was the president of everyone. He wanted to ensure peace through unity. He always told the truth: Everyone expects accuracy and validity from a leader. Nelson Mandela lied even if the truth hurt his followers. He was known for preaching truth no matter how bitter that was. He always sacrificed: He never hesitated to sacrifice for the betterment of his people and reach a goal. Nelson Mandela imprisoned himself for 27 years for his people. He was an eager learner: Mandela never underestimated the power of knowledge. He believed knowledge opens new doors for mankind, and while in prison he still managed to read several books and continued his legal education. He was a positive thinker: Although Mandela struggled and faced numerous challenges, he maintained a positive mindset. His main goal was to change society no matter what kind of situation arose.
Looking ahead, what are some of the key initiatives or projects you are focusing on that you’d like our community to be aware of?
I am in the process of launching an online series of awareness training and development that offers you a safe environment to engage in real-time and pre-recorded stories and conversations with peers and experts from local and global communities. Using the context of our collective lived experiences, I will be inviting my community to share reflections in one on one, small-group, or panel discussions while engaging in difficult dialogue (with love), to build skills, knowledge, and awareness on various topics. My intention is to go beyond ordinary representation and encompass a commitment to embracing differences and ensuring everyone feels valued and respected. Stay Tuned to my YouTube Channel, coming soon.