We improve equitable outcomes
MEET THE STAFF
Shelby Michelle Williams, MPA
Executive Director
She/Her
Shelby M. Williams is a highly motivated policy professional with 10+years of experience in ethnographic research, DEI strategies, and campaign management, who possesses a strong civic rapport in corporate philanthropy, fiscal compliance, and municipal administration.
Williams works as a philanthropic champion, marketing strategist, grant procurement expert, and communicator lobbyist in various policy initiatives designed to connect communal revitalization projects with impacted communities.
Williams obtained her B.A in political science from Central Connecticut State University and her master’s in public administration from University of Connecticut’s school of public policy. In her free time Williams enjoys training in karate, fishing, and pole dancing.
Mars Perez
Crisis Prevention Organizer
They/Them
Mars Perez as our Crisis Prevention Organizer. Mars is a big believer in minding our business and letting people be who they want to be. They began their studies in fashion, before transitioning to work with children and develop child psychology knowledge. Mars pursued a career with a yearning for connection, community, and love. Their message drives the root of their work each day. Mars is currently pursuing a degree in psychology with an emphasis on Africana studies and how it interacts with the African diaspora to the Caribbean. In their free time Mars enjoys skateboarding and is fluent in Spanish.
To connect with Mars, please email (They/Them) at mars@coloredhemisphere.org.
Maliah Ryan
Crisis Prevention Organizer
She/Her
Maliah Ryan as our Crisis Prevention Organizer. Maliah lives by the phrase, “one day at a time.”. She began her studies at Trinity College in Hartford, CT earning her B.S in environmental science. She got her start in organizing and advocacy as the co-founder of Trinity’s environmental and climate justice club during her sophomore year, where she fell in love with community- driven work. Maliah is currently pursuing her master’s in public health at the University of Connecticut, focusing on the intersection of environmental injustice and social determinants of health. Maliah is also an active member of UConn’s public health student organization, which fosters community engagement opportunities. She has experience with customer service, outreach, activism, research and community care projects. In her free time, Maliah loves spending time with family and friends, watching reality TV, listening to music, reading and making matcha.
Careers & Volunteer Opportunities
Colored Hemisphere is an Equal Opportunity Employer providing all individuals, regardless of background, career opportunities related to their passions and interests.
For individuals looking to work with Colored Hemisphere, please click this link to view our current job vacancies. We look forward to hearing from you!
Upcoming Events
- Saturday, October 24: Trunk or Treat 11am to 4pm. Location: 496 Riverside Street, Waterbury CT
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us
if you need help or just want to say hello