Change Begins with You and I

Dear Community,

 

My name is Kheoshi Owens, and I am a North Portland Native and the Founder of Empress Rules. My passion for Equity began at the young age of 19 when I witnessed someone dear to me, brutally murdered in front of my face. I wanted to hate the person who killed my loved one, but instead, I began to wonder, "How did this person get to the point that they could take a precious life so easily?" There was something systemic that was going on that I was unaware of, yet severely impacted by.

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During my professional career, I worked with thousands of students, teachers, and organizations in Portland and beyond, collaborating with professionals to close the gap economic gap between Black, Indigenous, People of Color and white people.  

 

 I know what its like to not feel seen, heard, or validated. I know what it is like to look at Executive Leadership and have no one there who looks like her. No one who understands my community and my culture. To have a MBA and still not be "white enough." Being white was something I never wanted to be; I just wanted to show up, be excellent, and be me.

 

I studied to become a Master Facilitator and became a primary resource for adults who wanted to create inclusive environments.

 

Empress Rules is named after my daughter because she rules my heart. As Empress' mother and a surrogate mother to many children, I want my children to inherit a world where they are seen, heard, and validated. I want to create a world where race, gender identity, immigration status, ability, and intersecting identities are celebrated and valued.
 

Since founding Empress Rules in April 2017, Empress Rules has facilitated Equity focused projects for Energy Trust of Oregon, Travel Oregon, The City of Portland, Village Family Capital, Prosper Portland and more.

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I dedicated my life to Anti-racism, social and economic justice for our most vulnerable populations. I believe that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and validated. I have worked to promote Equity for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)  communities for close to 20 years now, matching 270 youth with mentors in the community and was awarded the Portland Community College Diamond Alumni Award for displaying excellence in the community.

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In conclusion, my mission is to end racism through love; love of my community, and the love of empowering individuals and organizations who understand the importance of inclusiveness. I want to empower those who understand that we are better together. When people are allotted the freedom and agency to authentic, we are better. We are better when we invest in each other. As my mentors and those who have come before me have invested in me in hopes of a brighter tomorrow, let me invest in you, and let us invest in each other. I want to see you; I want to hear from you. I want you to know that you matter. I look forward to connecting with you soon!

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Kindly,

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Kheoshi Owens

Founder of Empress Rules Equity Consulting