About Heather Kamille Herrera

My journey in fostering intercultural understanding is rooted in a lifelong personal and professional exploration of identity, communication, and human connection. Growing up in a multicultural family in Kansas and navigating diverse social landscapes as a light-skinned Black woman, I've gained a unique sensitivity to unspoken cues and the profound impact of perception. This experience, akin to "reading the air" (Kuˉki o Yomu), has cultivated a deep empathy for diverse perspectives.

My academic foundation in Communication Studies (Cultural and Organizational Communications) combined with learning Spanish, French, and Japanese, and immersing myself in global dance forms (Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Brazilian, West African), has provided a rich tapestry of understanding human expression. Professionally, my career spans Public Relations, High-Tech, Healthcare, and International Communications (Japan, Latin America, Africa), where I've consistently built bridges across cultural divides.

Beyond my professional endeavors, my dedication to lifelong learning and engaging with global history, music, and the stories of visionary leaders fuels my passion for understanding our interconnected world. My experiences, including navigating societal perceptions related to appearance (natural hair, weight loss), have reinforced a core belief: true global connection stems from recognizing our shared humanity beneath all cultural expressions.