Teressa Waters, a powerful change agent, defies societal expectations and fights for inclusivity and diversity, challenging the status quo in her pursuit to create lasting impact and change in communities.

Teressa Waters is a dynamic force for change in Prince McGregor's County, Maryland. As the founder and vice president of Cross Cultures Community Center, Inc. (CCC), she has been instrumental in promoting diversity and social-emotional learning (SEL) in her community. With a background in diversity management, including working for the CIA for ten years, Teressa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work. Her passion for empowering youth and families led her to establish the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate, a division of CCC, where she offers workshops, wellness classes, and exhibits that foster social, emotional, and intellectual wellness.

Teressa's commitment to inclusive programming and her dedication to supporting underserved communities shine through in her role as a change agent.

We are honored to have Teressa as a guest on our podcast, sharing her insights and strategies for implementing culturally responsive and inclusive programming in educational and youth settings. Being present is so important because it allows you to appreciate every single second that you've been given, and it allows you to appreciate and value every single person that comes into your life space. - Teressa Waters

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn strategies for promoting diversity and social-emotional learning to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
• Gain insight into the unique challenges faced by black women professionals and discover ways to support and empower them.
• Understand the importance of supportive leaders and mentors in nurturing the growth and success of youth in diverse communities.
• Explore the power of a strong support system and how it can positively impact the personal and professional lives of individuals.
• Discover the love language of acts of service and how it can deepen connections and foster a sense of belonging in diverse communities.

The experiences of black women in professional settings often involve overcoming substantial hurdles, including stereotypes and unconscious biases. These challenges can sometimes result in their contributions being overlooked or dismissed. By bringing awareness to these issues and cultivating more inclusive workplaces, we can propel meaningful change and provide every individual with an equal opportunity to shine.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate division of CCC for workshops, wellness classes, and exhibits that promote social, emotional, and intellectual wellness.
• Explore the biophilic programming and therapeutic arts offered by Artesian Enterprises to cultivate sustainable and transferable plant life.
• Support local artists by attending their exhibits and engaging with their work.
• Get involved with ACAC programs and services that promote social change and local community and economic development.
• Learn more about Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and its importance in children's development.
• Embrace diversity and respect what different ethnicities, genders, and backgrounds bring to the table.
• Ground yourself in nature and appreciate the value of the smallest things for personal growth and self-love.
• Consider supporting Teressa’s mission to grow the Artesian Cultural Arts Estate is to promote diversity through arts and culture, further lifelong learning, and help improve the quality of life of the youth and families they serve beyond by donating here

Ready to break through your own “If Only”?
Let’s create your next powerful step together. Visit BrendaMcGregor.com to connect.