1. What drew you to RVC?
The mission and how hard the organization works to do right by the mission. Although I knew about RVC through my previous work in the nonprofit sector, until this year the timing was never right to pursue an opportunity here.
2. What is your favorite part of your job?
People! Everyone has made me feel comfortable and welcome. A big shout out to my Capacity Building teammates for the hard work they put into designing and facilitating an onboarding plan that is intentional in setting up new staff members for success, especially in a virtual work environment. I feel supported, engaged and ready to learn and grow.
3. What does being “rooted in community” mean to you?
A collaborative roundtable approach that puts value on empathy, equity and inclusiveness. Working with the community to not only identify issues but also come up with the best solutions with them.
4. What is your vision for the future?
More understanding, tolerance and acceptance of each other. I have two children and think about the kind of “world” I want them to experience, grow and find joy in. It’s an aspiration that sounds simple but takes a lot of work to create.
5. What is your favorite lunch?
A tomato sandwich with a generous spread of mayonnaise. It’s really just bread, butter, tomato, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. As I’ve gotten older I’m trying to switch to whole grain bread!
6. What is the theme song of your life? And why?
“You Learn” by Alanis Morissette. Everything in my life has been an opportunity to learn and grow. I grew up in Fiji, left at 18 to go to university in New Zealand, and then moved and settled in Seattle. Through every experience good or bad there’s been something to learn for me.
7. Who inspires you?
Maria Reesa, a Filipino-American journalist and author, the co-founder of Rappler, Philippines online news website, and the first Filipina recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
When I went to university in New Zealand, it was never my intention to stay after graduation. I had always wanted to go back to Fiji, but because of the military coups and political upheaval a lot of my family and community left. I admire Maria Reesa for going back to her country and being resilient through the hardships constantly working towards her mission of freedom of speech, democracy and peace.
8. What is your favorite local business to support?
Midori Teriyaki has this spicy chicken teriyaki that’s my favorite. And Ben Franklin Crafts, my go to store for all the jewelry and holiday decorations that I make.
9. Any closing remarks?
I’m really excited to join RVC and looking forward to working with partners and the whole RVC team!
You can welcome Harshika to the team by emailing her at: [email protected]
