JOURNAL 5: NETWORKING

Many of the individuals I encountered in Rhizome initially crossed paths with me through our joint involvement in a prior nonprofit endeavor, When We All Vote, during the 2021 election amidst the pandemic. Together, we navigated the challenges of virtual work and service, and it was from this shared experience that the seed of Rhizome was planted, eventually blossoming into a collective effort involving 90 dedicated individuals. Over the past three years, we’ve worked tirelessly to shape Rhizome into an organization of which we are immensely proud. Our success has been exemplified by our ability to attract funders, a testament to the strength of our collaborative efforts.

Through these connections forged within Rhizome, I’ve been fortunate to receive invaluable support, ranging from assistance with job applications to conducting practice interviews with seasoned professionals. Observing how these individuals carry themselves with poise and eloquence has been both enlightening and admirable. The relationships cultivated over years of collaboration have solidified to a point where I am confident they will endure, regardless of the paths our individual journeys may take.

As a regional organizer, board member, and co-founder of this nonprofit, I’ve had the privilege of interacting with a diverse array of individuals, each possessing a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. From seasoned professionals hailing from various industries and occupations, such as a high school principal and DEI consultant, to lawyers specializing in environmental law and HR, to grassroots organizing experts, the breadth of expertise within our network is truly inspiring. These interactions have afforded me the opportunity to appreciate the significance of their contributions and to recognize the expertise they bring to the table, without any inclination to downplay their accomplishments. They are experts in their fields for a reason, having accrued valuable experience over the course of their respective careers.

Participating in board meetings alongside seasoned professionals initially evoked feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty within me. As one of only two students among a group of accomplished professionals, I often questioned my own qualifications to contribute meaningfully to discussions. However, I’ve come to realize that these feelings are not uncommon, and I’ve found reassurance in knowing that I do indeed have something valuable to offer. Despite this reassurance, I continue to grapple with occasional doubts of myself, particularly when confronted with the wealth of experience and expertise possessed by my fellow board members. Nevertheless, I remain committed to learning and growing in my role within Rhizome, recognizing that every contribution, regardless of its magnitude, is essential to our collective success.