Gardian of the Month: Jannah Bierens

Our Gardian of the Month is Jannah Bierens Founder of PHREEEDOM Consulting and Facilitation. 

Learn: What's your favorite part about learning something new?

I love to apply my learnings to my work and life, and enjoy even more, recognizing the growth that occurs as a result. 

Network: Tell us about one of your favorite personal or professional networks. What makes it special?

I joined Public Health Awakened, a national network of public health professionals organizing for health, equity, and justice, back in 2017. It's been refreshing to connect with people across the country who have similar personal and professional passions. I find it energizing to network and learn from and with others! I've also gotten wonderful (and even life-changing) opportunities from being involved with this group. I'm grateful for it.  

Transfer: What resources/tools do you find most helpful in helping you retain knowledge?

Rhyming and word alliteration (sometimes with music) have proved helpful for me from elementary school all the way up through college and my career.  

Resource: Please share with us a resource and why you can’t live without it.

The book, Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds by adrienne maree brown has become a “bible” of sorts to me over the last five years. Not only has it been a source of validation, self-care, and useful facilitation tools, but the pages hold words of wisdom that have led me to other brilliant minds and resources. It is truly a gift that keeps giving! 

Just for Fun: What is your favorite Summer activity?

Prior to relocating to Michigan from North Carolina, I would have said food truck rodeos, but my NEW favorite is kayaking!