About
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been driven by a fundamental curiosity about people: what motivates us, how we navigate complex challenges, and what it takes to build systems that genuinely support human well-being. This curiosity led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology and a career leading research in some of the most challenging environments around the world.
For over nine years, I’ve had the privilege of working with communities in places like Mexico, Rapanui, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone, as well as with survivors of human trafficking and refugee populations in the U.S. and Lebanon. My work focused on understanding the impact of traumatic life events—like exploitation, conflict, displacement, and poverty—on families and children. I designed and led large-scale studies to figure out what works, for whom, and why. This wasn't just academic; it was about generating real-world evidence to build better, more effective support programs.
Along the way, I led the development of digital tools to help community health workers deliver care more effectively. I saw firsthand how a well-designed product could improve outcomes, increase engagement, and empower people. That experience was a turning point. It became clear that the most effective solutions emerge when rigorous research is infused with social innovation. The process taught me that co-designing with communities isn't just a method; it's the essential bridge between evidence and real-world impact.
That realization is what guides my work today.
My approach is grounded in the belief that the most successful solutions—whether they are products, programs, or policies—are built on a deep and empathetic understanding of human behavior. I combine the methodological rigor of my academic background with a practical, collaborative spirit. I love diving into complex data to find the story, and then translating that story into clear, actionable insights that empower teams to build with confidence.
Whether the goal is to understand the needs of a family in a low-resource setting, a user of a new mobile app, or the patterns hidden in a large dataset, the fundamental challenge is the same: to listen, to learn, and to use evidence to make things better.
When I'm not deep in research, you can find me exploring new worlds and engaging in a bit of collaborative storytelling through tabletop role-playing games.
I’m always excited to connect with people who are passionate about solving meaningful problems. Feel free to reach out.