Participant Story: Equiana Brown

 

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know the people in the community, especially at a deeper level. It was easy to make friends here and have a support group.” – Equiana Brown

 

Equiana Brown comes to Pittsburgh by way of Oakland, California. Equiana received her degree in History with a minor in Communications from the University of Scranton. Prior to joining PULSE, she worked as the Director of Programming and Operations for WUSR 99.5. Additionally, Equiana was a part of the Public Relations Student Society of America where she had the opportunity to work on campaigns for local businesses and community events. In her free time, Equiana enjoys meditating, reading, and going on nature walks. She is serving at the Northside Leadership Conference.

Brian Charles: What have you enjoyed most about living in community?

Equiana Brown: I’ve enjoyed getting to know the people in the community, especially at a deeper level. It was easy to make friends here and have a support group (and not feel like a lonely loser). It’s great to be with people going through the same life transitions as you are and understand the place that you’re in.

Brian: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?

Equiana: I really enjoy being with the community all day, and if I’m not working with them, I’m working for them. I like meeting new people and working with people. I like working where I live, I’ve learned so much about the Northside. Getting out of the office and seeing how business development and community development work first hand has been great.

Brian: What surprised you most about Pittsburgh?

Equiana: I was surprised by how cool the city is. When I thought about Pittsburgh, I thought about an old city. But downtown is so cool, glass buildings and eco-friendly buildings. NYC level of events to do every night.

Brian: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.

Equiana: I’m learning that art really relaxes me. The first month I was here I did art at the end of the day and it was nice. I like to be keep busy. When I have nothing to do, I make myself find things to do. Also, I’ve learned that I’m a good cook. 

Brian: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?

Equiana: Green Curry! (Made by me). Bell Peppers, Onions, Coconut Milk, Chicken and Salmon, Mushrooms, Garlic, Tofu.

Story by PULSE Participant Brian Charles.

Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.

Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: