Hey, my name is Rauneisha (pronounced Ron-Nee-sha) Larkins and my pronouns are she/her/diva. I am charismatic leader who tends to win people over with my warm personality and infectious smile. I am a native of Cincinnati, Ohio but relocated to Washington when I was stationed here as a United States Navy sailor. I am now a proud veteran that enjoys traveling, being a newlywed, and being a dog mom!

I am here because this work is embedded in my DNA and it brings me further purpose as a social worker. As a social worker, I have worked at the micro level to work with individuals who have mental health issues.

Through my work at the individual/micro level, I have seen many disparities that are systematic. This role has allowed me to work at the systematic level and help to dismantle systematic racism that have been woven into the fabrics of our systems.

This work is personal for me because I have the chance to implement change and use my voice to advocate for those that cannot.

My role in the office is a Shared Power Consultant. My superpower would be my ability to make people smile and be a bridge to make people feel connected. I believe that being my true authentic self will support pro-equity and anti-racism work because we cannot function as a "monolith." So for me, it is important that we bring our experiences and differences to the table because that is one of the most effective ways to impact change.

One thing that I will commit to do to make a difference for my fellow Washingtonians in 2023 is to remain flexible with a willingness to learn. I will know if I am successful by examining the spaces I am entering and actively choosing to listen twice as much as I speak. I will evaluate and hold myself accountable by ensuring that people feel heard and supported during my direct encounters. I believe that I have been complicit in upholding systematic racism by not speaking up when I should have and/or hoping that someone else will "do the work" instead. Through accountability and reflection, I have been on my own journey to find my voice in this work and not allowing my passion and fire to be dimmed to advance equity and belonging.

My vision for a just and equitable future in which all people have access to the resources, power, and opportunities to live, succeed, and thrive would be a system with no barriers. A place where true accountability, reflection, and healing has occurred to create an environment that is rooted in the betterment of ALL people.