Who We Are

“A Personal Journey, A Collective Mission – Why CREED Matters More Than Ever”

When I think about why CREED exists, I don’t just think about policy changes, funding shifts, or sector-wide challenges. I think about my own journey.

As an immigrant woman of color who did not attend college in the U.S., I have always been a competent, driven professional—but that didn’t mean the path was easy. Building connections, getting fair compensation, and navigating professional spaces that weren’t designed with me in mind—all of that required effort beyond just hard work. Cultural differences shaped my experience, and at times, they created barriers.

I know I am not alone in this experience.

That’s why CREED is personal to me.

• CREED exists to ensure that no talented, mission-driven professional is left navigating this space alone.
• CREED is here to create networks, elevate leaders, and push for fair and equitable systems.
• CREED is here to redefine what leadership looks like in development—not just for today, but for the future.

At a time when equity and inclusion are under attack, our mission doesn’t stop. We evolve, we strategize, and we build the kind of development sector that works for all of us.

If you are an emerging leader, a young professional, or someone who has felt unseen in this sector—CREED is for you. If you lead an organization that believes in ethical leadership and opportunity, we want to partner with you.