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While DEI is often thought of as synonymous with anti-racism work, there are valid reasons why this may not be the ideal starting point for everyone. Our expertise is sub-cultural topics that approach DEI from different angles. We customize solutions for your audience- from facilitating difficult discussions to designing and presenting in-person, hybrid, or on-demand workshops.
SERVICES
CONSULTING
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TRAINING / FACILITATION
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Cultural Skills are Universal
Facts that drive our approach:
Our opinions/observations:
- Despite important progress, race and ethnicity are still major social/political fault lines that impact the workplace.
- Discrimination against Jewish, Muslim, and LGBTQ employees has risen sharply in recent years.
- Women continue to face workplace biases that limit their career growth and earnings.
Our opinions/observations:
- Leaders too often overlook ally opportunities because they don't feel qualified or fear making mistakes.
- We counter with accurate information and exercises that focus on commonalities across cultures and beliefs.
- Curiosity and competency are like muscles that grow stronger with use. Clients easily apply the information and tools we provide in their work and personal lives.
CONSULTING
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TRAINING / FACILITATION
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By Malcolm Evans, used with permission of the artist
X_GRAPHICS & PICS
We make communicating across differences easier with three options: in-person, hybrid, or on-demand.* Our courses help people solve nuanced problems managers, supervisors, and business owners struggle with in today's multi-cultural workplace. We also consult, facilitate, and speak on course topics.
Our course design and deliverables include:
*Zena Consulting is a Washington State DES Master Contract Vendor for DEI Training Solutions. We accept credit cards within the micro-purchase threshold.
Our course design and deliverables include:
- Interactive exercises and tip sheets to engage a variety of learning, communication, and cultural styles
- Strength-based approach that leverages common sense skills and emotional intelligence
- Emphasis on peer-learning and team building
- Confidential email and phone support during each course, plus access to recordings for 6 weeks after
- Option to add live group consulting calls
- Offer to buy 1-1 consulting sessions and discounted follow-through packages
*Zena Consulting is a Washington State DES Master Contract Vendor for DEI Training Solutions. We accept credit cards within the micro-purchase threshold.
Creating a Kid-Friendly Process for Educational Testing
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Challenge- Our client said that parents and children seeking evaluations for admission to private schools were often anxious- which adversely affects test scores and impact a large role in a child's future.
Solution- We recommended ways to make her website more informative, interactive and inclusive to ease the intake process. This included playful Meet Amy videos and photos of multicultural families, plus fun activities on site to help kids relax and engage. Result- The client embraced our ideas, which were instantly popular and effective. She is now booked almost two years out. |
Training Pros to Write Ethically About Equity
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Challenge- The NW philanthropic community is raising the bar on DEI outcomes for grant recipients. Puget Sound Grant Writers Association / PSGA, wanted to help its members (who often work as externals) meet this expectation.
Solution- In 2018, we designed and co-presented a training with Chanya Allen, entitled: “Writing About Equity with Confidence & Credibility”, to explore DEI ethics, best-practices. Lee also facilitated a panel discussion with local, racially diverse funding officers. Result- 90% of PSGA respondents at this event said we provided "information/skills to help them at work". We presented similar trainings at Nonprofit Leadership Conference for Coastal & SW Washington's (NPLC) conferences in 2019 and 2023. |
Helping Researchers Gather Data on Underrepresented Families
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Challenge- A large metropolitan county uses "data speak" to measure public school program outcomes. Leaders believed the translation gap between researchers' language and the public's was a barrier for under-represented communities.
Solution- We agreed with the client that trust was already low, and recommended ways to improve cultural inclusion; from information-gathering to processes that respectfully engaged more diverse families, focusing on youth leaders. Result- Our recommendations were well-received by the client and community partners. |
Community Engagement to Improve Public Safety
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Challenge- After the events of 9/11, Muslim mothers were afraid to travel to the North Seattle Family Center for WIC (federal food assistance) benefits.
Solution- We facilitated meetings with community leaders and staff to learn about their fears and needs. The first request was: "Teach us to swim, our children are drowning". (Several deaths had occurred in recent years at public parks, where Muslim families gather). Result- The women also worried about depression from increased isolation and sought safe, fun ways to socialize. They formed a Sister's Group, then launched a swim program, which brought the families back for services and created new partnerships. 'Sister's Swim' continues today and welcomes all females. It's been replicated in other cities and garnered PRESS from Seattle's Mayor, the Seattle Times and NPR Radio. |
Reducing the Risk of Homelessness and Sex Trafficking
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Challenge- The Agape House in Seattle provides Black and brown women with housing and other services when they transition out of foster care at age 21; a population that's at great risk for exploitation.
Solution- Working with the executive director, we conducted a communications audit and found overlooked strengths and potential partners. Result- The board used our recommendations to attract support from a larger agency, which helped them develop new, higher profile funding sources. |
Culturally Inclusive Re-Branding to Improve Personal Safety
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Challenge- The owner of a USA-based personal safety/situational awareness firm wanted content that would attracting more global customers and corporate clients.
Solution- Our communication plan included adding culturally diverse photos to engage multicultural and LGBTQ markets, switching to a more robust graphic design platform, creating interactive exercises for live presentations and webinars, and copy writing/editing. Result- The client received a contract to train 500,000 Grub Hub drivers and more corporate work has followed since working with us. |
Executive Training to Reduce Generational & Cultural Differences
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Challenge- A team of Boomer and GenX leaders felt ill-prepared to meet with a C-suite entourage of new partners from Japan.
Solution- We saw a classic individualist (USA) versus collectivist (Asian) approach to business, hierarchy, respect, and sharing power, and designed a 1/2 day executive retreat to coordinate the team's efforts. It included: an overview of Eastern versus Western cultures and values, a strength inventory, and a facilitated discussion to map the team's transferable intercultural skills, roles, and responsibilities. Result- The client immediately asked us to repeat the training for more staff. See client testimonial below. |
- Strategic Planning– identify new funding sources , engagement opportunities, and potential partners.
- Preparedness Evaluation- assess resources and capacity before approaching funders want to see realistic goals, budgets, and projected outcomes.
- Partnership Development- find overlooked opportunities, increase capacity, create stable funding, or build mutually beneficial relationships.
- Market Research, Evaluation, and Reporting- feedback to ensure quality data collection that complies with funder guidelines and captures cultural inclusion efforts.
Get Messaging that Engages All Citizens
We provide DEI communication services to leaders and managers with a focus on USA culture. Examples include:
- Government agency staff call on me for culturally inclusive messaging to help them reach new and more small businesses.
- Prime contractors hire me to conduct market research, lead focus groups, or write reports with an eye on inclusion.
DEI is more than race and ethnicity. Politics, socio-economics, generation, and business size are other parts of the equation.
Whether cultural competency is a voluntary goal or mandated by law, our services (below) will help you increase representation, business and community engagement, and service delivery.
We provide DEI communication services to leaders and managers with a focus on USA culture. Examples include:
Whether cultural competency is a voluntary goal or mandated by law, our services (below) will help you increase representation, business and community engagement, and service delivery.
We provide DEI communication services to leaders and managers with a focus on USA culture. Examples include:
- Government agency staff call on me for culturally inclusive messaging to help them reach new and more small businesses.
- Prime contractors hire me to conduct market research, lead focus groups, or write reports with an eye on inclusion.
Training / Facilitation
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Strategic Communication
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Consulting
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Training / Facilitation
You want information to grow and compete in a multicultural, multi-generational workplace; starting with finding common ground. |
Strategic Communication
You want a plan with messaging that engages more diverse stakeholders and meets expectations of 'belonging' to your organization. |
Consulting
You want to avoid conflicts that can compromise productivity, build a stronger organizational culture, and develop new partnerships. |
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Diversity is many things - but what does it mean to your organization and people?
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Managing or supervising today requires building on the emotional intelligence skills that got you this far, including:
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We make learning easier by building on your executive and organizational strengths. Our approach to working with clients includes:
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Diversity is a given. Equity is a goal. Inclusion is the action in between them.
Communication is the how of this process. No doubt, diverse teams bring new opportunities and challenges.
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I founded Zena Consulting in 2008 to help leaders and managers communicate better in today's complex marketplace. My mission is improving equity through business capacity and growth. My vision is a thriving USA economy, where everyone can succeed- regardless of culture, gender, age, or location.
Communication is the HOW of DEIin today's complex workplace? in today's complex workplace? While diverse teams do perform better, Managing them requires higher skills and more effort at first. Communication is the how of this process.Diversity is a given today. Equity is a goal. Inclusion is action connecting them. now- ready or not. But, what does it mean to your organization? Do you have the right words, images, and actions to deliver? How do you know? Topics to Manage Diverse Organizations
Communication is the HOW of DEIin today's complex workplace? in today's complex workplace? While diverse teams do perform better, Managing them requires higher skills and more effort at first. Communication is the how of this process.Diversity is a given today. Equity is a goal. Inclusion is action connecting them. now- ready or not. But, what does it mean to your organization? Do you have the right words, images, and actions to deliver? How do you know? Topics to Manage Diverse Organizations
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Benefits
- Identify your personal communication styles and strengths - Increase confidence talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion, (DEI ) - Discover tools and data to understand demographic and psychographic trends Clients say Lee brings out the best in people, and helps them feel comfortable exploring new ideas or making changes. As a speaker, trainer, or facilitator, she's candid but diplomatic, welcomes divergent views, and supports a variety of stakeholder interests- even when conflict arises. |
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HERSTORY |
More About Lee
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Sam Alkhalili and me at the 2018 Seattle Arab Festival
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Leadership is the Art of Communication
James Humes
More Topics
The USA is home to growing numbers of immigrants from Asia, India, the Middle East and North Africa. These 'New Americans' aren't monolithic groups, yet, despite significant ethnic, religious, socio-economic and cultural differences, they may share communication styles and behaviors that: 1) are at odds with mainstream egalitarian values and 2) show up at work.
Making Sense of the USA Workplace
Some of the most important information you need to succeed at work isn't written down- it's just understood by insiders. Deciphering this code can make the difference between getting by and getting ahead.
Since most discriminatory behavior doesn't rise to the level of a lawsuit your choices are few. You can suffer in silence, ask HR for help, or leave. Even then, if crossing an invisible corporate line may follow you to the next job. DESCRIPTION This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small or non-urban organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES You don't know what you don't know. It's hard to get accurate and unbiased information about workplace accommodations on paper versus real life. Talk with an attorney in a confidential setting to get answers and so you can establish realistic expectations and learn how to advocate for yourself. IDEAL STUDENT- Professionals at any level of an organization or stage of their career who want to learn more about navigating religious and cultural differences in the workplace. TUITION $197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter PRESENTED BY Lee Mozena M.A. and Dee Knapp, J.D., owner of Accord & Collaboration. |
Islam 101 for Managers & Supervisors
TUITION $197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter PRESENTED BY Lee Mozena M.A. and Michaela Corning B.A., owner of Barakah Beauty Collective. |
Working With Gender-Separated Cultures
What if there's more than one way to empower women?
Employees from highly traditional (USA-born and immigrant) cultures or religions may have customs that seem odd or offensive- especially if they undermine your gender equity goals. Gender separation - a practice where men and women must follow strict rules in private and in public- is a way of life for some people. It's also controversial and a source of discrimination. What does cultural inclusion look like if you face this challenge? Memorizing a list of do's and don'ts isn't effective because 1) people see through 'tolerance' and 2) it's hard to maintain. This course asks you to suspend polarizing East/West ideologies and explore new perspectives about respect, freedom, and empowerment. IDEAL STUDENT- Professionals at any level of an organization or stage of their career who want to learn more about navigating religious and cultural differences in the workplace. DESCRIPTION This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small or non-urban organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES Oppression and inequality are real; supporting and reinforcing these norms may be a line you aren’t willing to cross. But customers and project goals take precedent over your personal feelings. TUITION $197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter PRESENTED BY Lee Mozena M.A. and Michaela Corning B.A., owner of Barakah Beauty Collective. |
Making Sense of the USA Workplace
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers and supervisors lead an increasingly multicultural, multi-generational workforce by understanding some of the unspoken but important values behind employee communication and behaviors. For may people, culture and faith can't be left at home. Meet employees half way by learning:
This course answers 'taboo' questions about religious beliefs, and provides demographic trends, and tools. You'll practice solving real life problems that occur around gender, touch, modesty, food/drink, and holidays, plus an overview of major religions and "Nones", (people with no religious affiliation). PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES If you ask everyone to bring ‘their whole selves to work‘, be prepared when customs and beliefs that are unfamiliar, confusing, or even objectionable to others, show up. Diversity is a given today. Cultural inclusion doesn’t mean ignoring differences or hoping they go away. It means understanding them while keeping priorities and goals in perspective. TRANSFORMATION
PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES Diversity is a given today. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a process. All these words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values. addresses the DEI challenges facing less culturally diverse organizations with a four-step strategy to: Lee Mozena, Founder/Owner of Zena Consulting
TUITION- $197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter DESCRIPTION This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small non-urban, or less culturally diverse organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES DEI: Diversity a given everywhere today, thanks to the internet. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a communication process. These words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values and political beliefs. This course addresses the challenge to meet diversity expectations without apologizing for "not being diverse". PRESENTERS
TUITION-$197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
Islam 101 for Managers & Supervisors
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small non-urban, or less culturally diverse organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES DEI: Diversity a given everywhere today, thanks to the internet. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a communication process. These words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values and political beliefs. This course addresses the challenge to meet diversity expectations without apologizing for "not being diverse". PRESENTERS
TUITION-$197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
Working With Gender-Separated Cultures
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small or non-urban organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES Diversity is a given today. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a process. All these words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values. addresses the DEI challenges facing less culturally diverse organizations with a four-step strategy to: PRESENTERS
TUITION-$197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
While DEI is often thought of as synonymous with anti-racism work, there are valid reasons why this may not be the ideal starting point for everyone. Our expertise is sub-cultural topics that approach DEI from different angles. We customize solutions for your audience- from facilitating difficult discussions to designing and presenting in-person, hybrid, or on-demand workshops.
SecoCORE TOPICS
The USA is home to growing numbers of immigrants from Asia, India, the Middle East and North Africa. These 'New Americans' aren't monolithic groups, yet, despite significant ethnic, religious, socio-economic and cultural differences, they may share communication styles and behaviors that are new and unfamiliar to mainstream Americans.
Making Sense of the USA Workplace
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers and supervisors lead an increasingly multicultural, multi-generational workforce by understanding some of the unspoken but important values behind employee communication and behaviors. For may people, culture and faith can't be left at home. Meet employees half way by learning:
This course answers 'taboo' questions about religious beliefs, and provides demographic trends, and tools. You'll practice solving real life problems that occur around gender, touch, modesty, food/drink, and holidays, plus an overview of major religions and "Nones", (people with no religious affiliation). PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES If you ask everyone to bring ‘their whole selves to work‘, be prepared when customs and beliefs that are unfamiliar, confusing, or even objectionable to others, show up. Diversity is a given today. Cultural inclusion doesn’t mean ignoring differences or hoping they go away. It means understanding them while keeping priorities and goals in perspective. TRANSFORMATION
TUITION- $197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
Islam 101 for Managers & Supervisors
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small non-urban, or less culturally diverse organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES DEI: Diversity a given everywhere today, thanks to the internet. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a communication process. These words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values and political beliefs. This course addresses the challenge to meet diversity expectations without apologizing for "not being diverse". PRESENTERS
TUITION-$197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
Working With Gender-Separated Cultures
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps managers, supervisors, and business owners of small or non-urban organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES Diversity is a given today. Equity is a goal for some. Inclusion is a process. All these words are tied to expectations, costs, and (often) conflicts about values. addresses the DEI challenges facing less culturally diverse organizations with a four-step strategy to: PRESENTERS
TUITION-$197 pilot course price, $497 thereafter |
Get unbiased information about the unwritten rules on accommodations and learn how to advocate for yourself. more
Get unbiased information about the unwritten rules on accommodations and learn how to advocate for yourself. more
Learn how to stay neutral and focus on shared goals to improve communication and cooperation across divides. more
While DEI is often thought of as synonymous with anti-racism work, there are valid reasons why this may not be the ideal starting point for everyone. Our expertise is sub-cultural topics that approach DEI from different angles. We customize solutions for your audience- from facilitating difficult discussions to designing and presenting in-person, hybrid, or on-demand workshops.
What Does Diversity Mean to Us?
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps leaders and business owners of small, non-urban, or less culturally diverse organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. It has three parts:
PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES
Organizations in majority white parts of the USA also deserve prosperity and progress. You need the right data and words to get a 'seat at the table'. Get your voice heard by learning how to:
TUITION
Prices and schedule TBA
What Does Diversity Mean to Us?
DESCRIPTION
This 2-week course helps leaders and business owners of small, non-urban, or less culturally diverse organizations compete in an increasingly multicultural USA. It has three parts:
- facilitated dialogue on hot topics
- socioeconomic and demographic data and trends
- peer-to-peer learning
PROBLEM THIS COURSE SOLVES
Organizations in majority white parts of the USA also deserve prosperity and progress. You need the right data and words to get a 'seat at the table'. Get your voice heard by learning how to:
- stop apologizing for "not being diverse enough"
- reduce negative stereotypes and small town folks
- be proactive about your diversity and inclusion accomplishments
- develop a custom 4-step strategy to improve diversity and inclusion
- find new resources and partners
TUITION
Prices and schedule TBA
The USA is home to growing numbers of immigrants from Asia, India, the Middle East and North Africa. These 'New Americans' aren't monolithic groups, yet, despite significant ethnic, religious, socio-economic and cultural differences, they may share communication styles and behaviors that are new and unfamiliar to mainstream Americans.
Learn how Islam might impact work so you can manage diverse teams, support employees, and avoid complaints. more
Click image for current and back issues of ZENA NEWS
Our services support anti-racism work by engaging people from different perspectives. We offer Training/Facilitation (in-person or online), Strategic Communication, and Consulting on the topics below. Our services complement and enhance anti-racism work by engaging people from different perspectives. We offer Training/Facilitation (in-person or online), Strategic Communication, and Consulting on the topics below.
Communications
Interpersonal Conflict Resolution
April 2-3
This course will equip you with the skills to navigate a range of conflict resolution methods, from one-to-one conversation to mediation and arbitration. Through thoughtful assessment, discover your own unique style for handling disputes – such as whether it is more constructive or destructive in nature - then work out how this approach interacts with other styles present in any given situation. You'll also be able understand when internal pressures are driving a perceived issue and gain an insight into why people behave differently under stress.
Listening Skills
April 11
Listening is a skill that we use every day in our personal and professional lives. Though it may seem like a simple task, listening effectively can be quite difficult. This training will teach you the value of listening, how to overcome obstacles to effective listening, and how to use empathic statements to encourage the speaker. By the end of this training, you will be able to listen completely, identify and minimize distractions, and respond with clarifying questions.
Interpersonal Conflict Resolution
April 2-3
This course will equip you with the skills to navigate a range of conflict resolution methods, from one-to-one conversation to mediation and arbitration. Through thoughtful assessment, discover your own unique style for handling disputes – such as whether it is more constructive or destructive in nature - then work out how this approach interacts with other styles present in any given situation. You'll also be able understand when internal pressures are driving a perceived issue and gain an insight into why people behave differently under stress.
Listening Skills
April 11
Listening is a skill that we use every day in our personal and professional lives. Though it may seem like a simple task, listening effectively can be quite difficult. This training will teach you the value of listening, how to overcome obstacles to effective listening, and how to use empathic statements to encourage the speaker. By the end of this training, you will be able to listen completely, identify and minimize distractions, and respond with clarifying questions.
Why Adaptive Leadership
Adaptive Leadership (AL) is a Harvard-based model designed to create common good across regions. Lee completed Leadership Eastside's two-year AL program in 2017. AL helps people, organizations (any sector), and communities adapt to change and thrive- by dissecting dysfunction and using conflict as a guide to finding long-term solutions.
Civic responsibility is a high priority for younger employees, making AL's emphasis on collaboration between organizations and communities especially relevant. See Harvard Business Review's 5 Principles Guide to Adaptive Leadership for a quick overview.
Civic responsibility is a high priority for younger employees, making AL's emphasis on collaboration between organizations and communities especially relevant. See Harvard Business Review's 5 Principles Guide to Adaptive Leadership for a quick overview.
Research Results #1
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Sound Transit / Frause Communications-
I was asked us to determine which two local populations had the greatest translation needs for a public safety campaign. This project entailed analyzing demographics, inter-generational family dynamics, English proficiency rates, train usage patterns, and community access to municipal resources. I interviewed a variety of stakeholder- community leaders, business owners, and city planners, before reporting my recommendations and placing ads in ‘ethnic’ papers. |
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King County Best Start for Kids-
As a member of the School Partnerships Evaluation Committee, I advised staff on how to design program outcome metrics and an information-gathering process that would be culturally-inclusive and engage marginalized families, that would be easy for the public to understand, without compromising the County's evaluation standards or process. |
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I've had the opportunity to attend Lee Mozena's seminar on 'Working With American Muslim Families' and I learned so much!
Dr. Caprice Hollins | Co-Director, Cultures Connecting
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Lee provided strategic support and helped us create marketing materials for new programs. She is truly an asset to leaders launching new products and services.
Narima Amin, Executive Director, Global Social Business Partnerships
Narima Amin, Executive Director, Global Social Business Partnerships
Narima Amin | Executive Director, Global Social Business Partners
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Lee approaches diversity from where we are right now, and shows how information can transform our beliefs around people from different backgrounds. She gives concise examples plus general guidelines, that are so helpful to my business.
Anonymous Agent |John Scott Realtors
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"Your presentation was great, the message was conveyed very well. I liked that you both managed the environment in a serious, professional, and gentle way. As women, you seem to be whole and bold.
Romiro Nava | CEO, Compass Cross Cultural Consulting, Mexico
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TRAINING / FACILITATION
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STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION
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CONSULTING
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Get Messaging that Engages All Citizens
We provide DEI communication services to leaders and managers with a focus on USA culture. Examples include:
- Government agency staff call on me for culturally inclusive messaging to help them reach new and more small businesses.
- Prime contractors hire me to conduct market research, lead focus groups, or write reports with an eye on inclusion.
Industries
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Arts, Entertainment & Recreation Community & Social Services Educational Services Energy Health & Wellness Management Consulting Professional, Scientific, or Technical Services Retail Rental Estate, Rental & Leasing, Property Management Media & Information Marketing & Advertising Tech Transportation Utilities |
Global Social Business Partnerships (GSBP), in Redmond, WA
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SERVICES & CLIENTS
TRAINING & FACILITATION
CLIENTS Diamond Mind Enterprises Executive Diversity Services, Inc. John L. Scott Real Estate, Inc. Madrona Real Estate Management Tekmira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. |
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Small & Rural Business is an Equity Issue
We support economic diversity for all USA organizations, providing nuanced, localized communication that large corporations can easily afford, including:
- culturally inclusive messaging to help you compete
- research, focus groups, analysis, and reports
60103603- Ethnic diversity resources
60105421- Cultural diversity instructional materials
801015- Business & Corporate Management Consultant
80141501- Marketing Analysis
80101511- HR Consulting
861320- Management Education & Training
8017- Public Relations & Communications
801719- Stakeholder Management
80171904- Cultural & ethnic group relations consultation and engagement
80172103- Change Management Communications
60105421- Cultural diversity instructional materials
801015- Business & Corporate Management Consultant
80141501- Marketing Analysis
80101511- HR Consulting
861320- Management Education & Training
8017- Public Relations & Communications
801719- Stakeholder Management
80171904- Cultural & ethnic group relations consultation and engagement
80172103- Change Management Communications
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Lee's consulting was fundamental to our success in interfacing with new Japanese colleagues- and we'd done business there before! She gave us a foundation that's been strategically and financially critical for our company.
Tammy Malarkey | COO, Tekmira Pharmaceuticals
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Your insight into outreach and building relationships with our program participants was invaluable for our board and staff.
Kate Murphy | Executive Director, Hunger Intervention Project
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Lee is a great consultant for adaptive change! She does a good job of determining when to push and when to lay back—which takes a deft touch when working with a group of leaders. She is supportive, knowledgeable, and responsive.
Jeremy Plane |
Store Manager, AAA Washington (LE Class of 2022)
Store Manager, AAA Washington (LE Class of 2022)
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Lee emphasizes strengthening families by honoring and integrating cultural diversity. She is intelligent, respectful, and creative in her work with them. Lee is a gift wherever she's involved.
Jane White Vuillet | Retired, Executive Director, Puget Sound Campfire
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Strategic Communications Clients
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PUBLICServing the public is a huge challenge. We help you talk about DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) to not only to increase representation and funding, but manage related controversies. |
SOCIAL
Funders may have high standards that make it harder for organizations representing certain low income, rural/small town, and elderly clients. Get data to leverage your strengths. |
PRIVATE
Attracting and keeping talented people has been harder after the pandemic. A wise investment is an organizational culture that makes it easy for employees to feel welcome. |
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Our Team
I work with the subject matter experts below on larger projects in addition to a national network of vetted colleagues.
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From launch to running a small biz, diversity and inclusion starts with you.
D&I for Start-Ups
Diversity brings new opportunities, challenges, and risks. Inclusion is a process that's more effective when you focus on shared values and goals. We help you get the right strategy, words, and images to engage more employees and customers.
SECTORS
B2B- Business to Business
I understand the unique challenges small business owners face and our essential ties to communities. When working with corporate clients, I may rely on Zena Associates and strategic Partners, who have decades of experience managing larger organizations.
B2G- Business to Government
Bureaucracies can be frustrating to work with when the language used is different. I help directors close communication gaps between their agencies and citizens.
B2Comm- Business to Community
The social sector is 1/5 of our economy. You have to be smart about making the world a better place. Non-profit executives and boards take advantage of my business communication skills to win grants in a highly competitive marketplace.
I understand the unique challenges small business owners face and our essential ties to communities. When working with corporate clients, I may rely on Zena Associates and strategic Partners, who have decades of experience managing larger organizations.
B2G- Business to Government
Bureaucracies can be frustrating to work with when the language used is different. I help directors close communication gaps between their agencies and citizens.
B2Comm- Business to Community
The social sector is 1/5 of our economy. You have to be smart about making the world a better place. Non-profit executives and boards take advantage of my business communication skills to win grants in a highly competitive marketplace.
Learn more about DES
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Learn about business certification
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"Lee was thoroughly prepared to train our teams, who had various depths of understanding of Muslim cultures. The interactive exercises were also great!”
RON POSTHUMA, FIELD DIRECTOR, COMMON POWER WASHINGTON
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"Because of your voice, your questions, and your advocacy we did more for helping bring people through our government processes. We also enhanced communication and outreach for new stakeholders."
WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYEE
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Strategic Communications
Challenge- Agape House needed more funding for their programs- which supports young Black and brown women transitioning out of foster care, and who are at risk of homelessness or being trafficked.
Solutions- My communications audit found overlooked strengths and PARTNERSHIP opportunities.
Results- The board leveraged my report to attract a larger agency to build capacity and support.
Solutions- My communications audit found overlooked strengths and PARTNERSHIP opportunities.
Results- The board leveraged my report to attract a larger agency to build capacity and support.
Training
Challenge- The region's philanthropic community is raising the bar on equity, diversity and inclusion outcomes for grant recipients. Puget Sound Grantwriter's Association, (PSGA), members need the expertise to meet this expectation.
Solution- I designed and co-presented a training with Chanya Allen, entitled: “Writing About Equity with Confidence & Credibility”, to help PSGA members understand E/D/I ethics, best-practices, and their impact. It included a facilitating a panel discussion with funding officers from private and public foundations.
Results- The event sold out and a follow-on was requested. See testimonial from participant, below.
Solution- I designed and co-presented a training with Chanya Allen, entitled: “Writing About Equity with Confidence & Credibility”, to help PSGA members understand E/D/I ethics, best-practices, and their impact. It included a facilitating a panel discussion with funding officers from private and public foundations.
Results- The event sold out and a follow-on was requested. See testimonial from participant, below.
Facilitation
Challenge- "Teach us to swim, our children are drowning". This was the first request at a meeting of American Muslim women at the North Seattle Family Center, where there was a drop in the food assistance (WIC) program for low-income children after the events of 9/11. In fact, several Muslim youth had perished off the shores of Seattle city parks in recent years.
Solutions- I facilitated meetings with community leaders and staff to find a facility that would meet the women's modesty standards and create a fun and affordable physical activity for women and children.
Results- These popular events re-engaged the community, helped families learn to swim, and created new partnerships between the city and it's citizens. Still operating today, the volunteer-run Sister's Swim quickly attracted funding, was featured in the Seattle Times and NPR Radio, and won praise from the mayor. Replicated in other cities, the program now welcomes all females, while meeting the needs of those who practice gender-separation.
Solutions- I facilitated meetings with community leaders and staff to find a facility that would meet the women's modesty standards and create a fun and affordable physical activity for women and children.
Results- These popular events re-engaged the community, helped families learn to swim, and created new partnerships between the city and it's citizens. Still operating today, the volunteer-run Sister's Swim quickly attracted funding, was featured in the Seattle Times and NPR Radio, and won praise from the mayor. Replicated in other cities, the program now welcomes all females, while meeting the needs of those who practice gender-separation.
Diversity + Inclusion = Growth
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1. Strategic Communications
- Diversity & Inclusion Strategic Plans
- Culturally-Inclusive Messaging - Market Research, Writing & Analysis |
2. Training- Executive and team coaching
- Cross-cultural training - Interactive design for diverse learners |
3. Facilitation- Cross-cultural & cross-functional solutions
- Mediation - Focus groups |
4. Outreach- Partnership Development
- Community Engagement Strategies - Demographic and ethnographic research |
See Results
Inclusion Support for Every Step
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START A BIZ
How do we create messaging that attracts our target audience and beyond? |
GROW YOUR BIZ
What strategies will help us compete and reach new, or more diverse markets? |
BUILD BIZ RESILIENCY
How do support diverse teams and engage new customers or employees? |
Good government abounds
Zena Consulting would not be successful without the FREE help of skilled volunteers who provided counseling and technical support at each stage of growth. Other agencies are looking for small, minority, and veteran-owned businesses to contract with. Click on the logos below to learn more. Thank you Seattle SCORE and PTAC!
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Small and non-urban places have different cultural challenges. Leverage diversity thinking to compete in multicultural USA.
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Part 1- Get answers to 'taboo' questions about cultural or religious differences between you and employees or co-workers.
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Part 2- Work more effectively with people whose religious or cultural practices seem at odds with your gender equity goals.
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Cultural Skills are Universal
Some facts that drive our approach:
- Despite gains, race and ethnicity are still major fault lines in our social and political environment.
- Discrimination against Jewish, Muslim, and LGBTQ employees has risen sharply in recent years.
- People often overlook opportunities to step in as allies because they don't feel qualified or empowered to do so.
- A biased media is partly the cause, so we counter with accurate information and exercises that focus on commonalities across cultures and beliefs.
- Curiosity is like a muscle that grows stronger with use. Clients easily apply the information and tools we provide to a variety of groups they work with.
Lead the Change You Want to See
Core Topics
The topics below are delivered three ways: in-person training events, short speaking presentations, or live webinars. Click on the link to see a full course description, length, and register.
We aren't focused only on Muslim Americans. Clients say the information, tools, and perspectives we share applies to other groups- especially refugees and immigrants. However, Islam is a faith that's new to many people who (like me) were raised in a 100% Christian setting but want to be respectful towards everyone. Plus, this population is reporting a sharp increase in workplace discrimination.
1. Cultural & Religious Differences
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2. What Does Diversity Mean to Us?Learn how small, non-urban, or "not diverse enough" (white) organizations can compete in multicultural USA. more
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3. Working with Gender-Separated Groups*Work effectively with people whose religious or cultural practices seem to undermine your gender equity goals. more
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Cultural Skills are Universal
Our Approach
Communication is the “how” of DEI. My approach, based on years of experience and leadership training is based on these beliefs:
- The wisdom is in the room
- People are more alike than they are different
- Issues divide, values unite
- DEI isn't a goal or priority for everyone
- Ignoring disagreements over important issues compromises long-term results
My approach to delivering any service is to draw out the innate strengths and wisdom you want to hide: you don't trust your ideas or feel safe bringing them into the open.
I use a tool called 'inviting the stranger', from Adaptive Leadership methodology- which means anyone who brings perspectives you want to ignore or eliminate.
Here's why. No matter how objectionable or wrong it seems, there's a germ of truth in their complaint you must honor. If you don't, the same problems will keep cropping up and those stakeholders will undermine sustainable solutions.
I use a tool called 'inviting the stranger', from Adaptive Leadership methodology- which means anyone who brings perspectives you want to ignore or eliminate.
Here's why. No matter how objectionable or wrong it seems, there's a germ of truth in their complaint you must honor. If you don't, the same problems will keep cropping up and those stakeholders will undermine sustainable solutions.
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Genius! We asked Lee to refine and streamline Diamond Mind's messaging. You can take a bucket of ideas and throw it at her. She'll process everything and repackage it into words that capture what you really mean.
Tom Rosenak, Founder & CEO, Diamond Mind
Tom Rosenak, Founder & CEO, Diamond Mind
Regina Glenn
CEO / Pacific Communications Consulting
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Lee is who I call when developing mar/comm for diverse audiences. She's helped me understand specific cultures–how to use the right words in the right situations to create effective presentations and materials."
Robin Block, Owner, Block Beta Marketing
Robin Block, Owner, Block Beta Marketing
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"Lee Mozena had great ideas about how to engage different types of families and learners, and guidance on using more strategic photos. These changes will set me apart from other professionals in my field."DR. AMY SUMMERS | EDUCATION PSYCHOLOGIST
DR. AMY SUMMERS | EDUCATION PSYCHOLOGIST
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I took Lee's recommendations to make presentations more interactive. I was amazed at the results: it wakes people up, gets them to respond emotionally, and reinforces key points. Breaking the 'third wall" isn't just for theater!
ROBBIN BLOCK | CEO, BLOCK BETA MARKETING
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My approach to delivering any service is to draw out the innate strengths and wisdom you want to hide: you don't trust your ideas or feel safe bringing them into the open. |
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I've had the opportunity to attend Lee Mozena's seminar on 'Working With American Muslim Families', and I learned so much!
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"We asked Lee to facilitate the challenging and honest discussions our business community needed to have in order to adapt and respond as a unit during these unprecedented times. She provided expert outside support that allowed sharing and development of ideas."
BETSY JORDYN | CEO, THE CONSULTANT'S INSTITUTE
BETSY JORDYN, CO-FOUNDER / THE CONSULTANT'S INSTITUTE
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"Lee approaches diversity from where we are right now, and shows how information can transform our beliefs around people from different backgrounds. She gives concise examples plus general guidelines, that are so helpful to my business."
ANONYMOUS AGENT | JOHN SCOTT REALTOR
JANE WHITE VUILLET, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / CAMPFIRE CENTRAL PUGET SOUND /
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Join Us for a New Workshop on Systems Change
November 30, 2023 - Online
The work of changing systems to solve complex social problems often focuses merely on technical solutions to produce quantifiable and predetermined outcomes. However, what is usually missing is the recognition that the systems we are trying to change are made up of people.
To explore this topic further, join us on November 30 for the online workshop Exploring the Relational Core of Systems Change Work, part in our Collaborating for Systems Change workshop series.
This half-day workshop will focus on how collective impact efforts can support relational development in ways that build authentic empathy and compassion between diverse participants and also attune to the interconnectedness of the human existence.
Registration Closing Next Week: The last day to register is Wednesday, November 22.
WORKSHOP LEADS AND PRESENTERS
Meet our Session Leads and Presenters for the Nov. 30 workshop Exploring the Relational Core of Systems Change Work:
- Lee Mozena, Founder/Owner of Zena Consulting
- Randy Lioz, Founder/Owner of Depolarizing Organizational Cultures
Zena Consulting LLC was founded in 2008 by myself, Lee Mozena. We provide diversity training and strategic communication. We're a Washington State Master Contract Vendor, and certified DBE and WBE.
*I'm a white woman, raised Christian, and not Muslim but I co-train with a woman who wears hijab. I have a lot of experience engaging diverse communities and clients. When I first started this work, CAIR wasn't as well-known on the national stage, nor was their advocacy as sophisticated as it is now.
However, I can reach audiences that may not be open to (or actually hostile towards) the excellent training CAIR and similar organizations offer. Also, my training is different than theirs. It includes information and demographic data on many other (non-Christian) religion in the USA, with an emphasis on a) similar values, b) the diversity of American Muslims, and c) the role of media disinformation in creating division and religious hatred.
Managing is Harder Today
Focus on Shared Values and Goals
Lead Essential Dialogue
Shift Perspectives for Good
If you ask everyone to bring ‘their whole selves to work‘, be prepared when customs and beliefs that are unfamiliar, confusing, or even objectionable to others, show up. Personal misunderstandings can and do grow into organizational problems, such as:
Cultural inclusion doesn’t mean ignoring differences or hoping they go away. It means building skills on common ground.
We help you talk about hidden assumptions and expectations; to know the ‘why’ behind some of the top inter-personal conflicts that plague diverse organizations: respect, gender roles, time, touch, modesty, etiquette, and celebrations. We're a Washington State Master Contract Vendor, and certified DBE and WBE. Contact her to learn more or schedule a free call.
Our approach starts with your unique strengths, goals, organizational culture, and demographic data. Using 'plain talk' and interactive discussion, we show you simple tools that solve real problems
Zena Consulting LLC, was founded in 2008 by owner Lee Mozena, left. We're a Washington State Master Contract Vendor, and certified DBE and WBE. Contact her to learn more or schedule a free call.
Diversity is part of your job- ready or not. It brings opportunities, challenges, and risks.While diverse teams do perform better, managing them takes more effort at first. Communication is the how of this process.
*I'm a white woman, raised Christian, and not Muslim but I co-train with a woman who wears hijab. I have a lot of experience engaging diverse communities and clients. When I first started this work, CAIR wasn't as well-known on the national stage, nor was their advocacy as sophisticated as it is now.
However, I can reach audiences that may not be open to (or actually hostile towards) the excellent training CAIR and similar organizations offer. Also, my training is different than theirs. It includes information and demographic data on many other (non-Christian) religion in the USA, with an emphasis on a) similar values, b) the diversity of American Muslims, and c) the role of media disinformation in creating division and religious hatred.
Managing is Harder Today
Focus on Shared Values and Goals
Lead Essential Dialogue
Shift Perspectives for Good
If you ask everyone to bring ‘their whole selves to work‘, be prepared when customs and beliefs that are unfamiliar, confusing, or even objectionable to others, show up. Personal misunderstandings can and do grow into organizational problems, such as:
- Under-performing teams
- Poor employee engagement
- Slow progress meeting diversity goals
Cultural inclusion doesn’t mean ignoring differences or hoping they go away. It means building skills on common ground.
We help you talk about hidden assumptions and expectations; to know the ‘why’ behind some of the top inter-personal conflicts that plague diverse organizations: respect, gender roles, time, touch, modesty, etiquette, and celebrations. We're a Washington State Master Contract Vendor, and certified DBE and WBE. Contact her to learn more or schedule a free call.
Our approach starts with your unique strengths, goals, organizational culture, and demographic data. Using 'plain talk' and interactive discussion, we show you simple tools that solve real problems
Zena Consulting LLC, was founded in 2008 by owner Lee Mozena, left. We're a Washington State Master Contract Vendor, and certified DBE and WBE. Contact her to learn more or schedule a free call.
Diversity is part of your job- ready or not. It brings opportunities, challenges, and risks.While diverse teams do perform better, managing them takes more effort at first. Communication is the how of this process.
Here’s what some of our past attendees had to say…
"Lee's training transformed some beliefs I had about people from different backgrounds. I feel more confident about working with new clients already."
Andrea Cryan | Windermere Real Estate
"All of this contributed to my learning– the factual materials, books, questions, and comments from fellow participants, the speakers, and their experiences-– I give it a top rating."
Staff member | Seattle Council of Churches
Staff member | Seattle Council of Churches
"I see Lee Mozena as an equity-focused leader who is determined to help others in the course of running a profitable business. As a trainer/facilitator, she’s patient and diplomatic. Lee brings out the best in people."
Regina Glenn | CEO, Pacific Communication Consultants
Regina Glenn | CEO, Pacific Communication Consultants
I've had the opportunity to attend Lee Mozena's seminar on 'Working With American Muslim Families', and I learned so much!"
Dr. Caprice Hollins | Co-Director, Cultures Connecting
Dr. Caprice Hollins | Co-Director, Cultures Connecting
"Lee approaches diversity from where we are right now, and shows how information can transform our beliefs around people from different backgrounds. She gives concise examples plus general guidelines, that are so helpful to my business."
Anonymous | Windermere Real Estate
Anonymous | Windermere Real Estate
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"Lee's training transformed some beliefs I had about people from different backgrounds. I feel more confident about working with new clients already."
ANDREA CRYAN | WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE
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"I've had the opportunity to attend Lee Mozena's seminar on 'Working With American Muslim Families', and I learned so much!"
Dr. Caprice Hollins | Co-Director, Cultures Connecting"
Dr. Caprice Hollins | Co-Director, Cultures Connecting"
DR. CAPRICE HOLLINS | CO-DIRECTOR, CULTURES CONNECTING
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"All of this contributed to my learning– the factual materials, books, questions, and comments from fellow participants, the speakers, and their experiences-– I give it a top rating."
Staff member | Seattle Council of Churches
Staff member | Seattle Council of Churches
STAFF MEMBER | SEATTLE COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
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"Lee's training gave me invaluable insight into the subjects of equity and inclusion, and a depth of understanding that I desperately needed to be successful in my work. I have more confidence around the complex issues of racial justice and racial equity, and am eternally grateful to Lee for enlightening me in so many ways."
SHARON FREY JONES | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREATER SEATTLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
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"Zena Consulting has given us a great sounding board for discussing multicultural strategies- and the confidence to recommend them to our clients directly- for diversity & inclusion training and other efforts."
CHRIS STANLEY, CEO, ALANCE MEDIA GROUP
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"Lee was thoroughly prepared to train our teams, who had various depths of understanding of Muslim cultures. The interactive exercises were also great!”
RON POSTHUMA, FIELD DIRECTOR, COMMON POWER WASHINGTON
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"Lee Mozena is an equity-focused leader who brings out the best in people. As a trainer and facilitator, she’s patient and diplomatic."
REGINA GLENN, CEO, PACIFIC COMMUNICATION CONSULTANTS
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"Lee's ability to prioritize access for small, minority, and disadvantaged communities has allowed her to also be seen as a leader among leaders, trusted ally, and authority in her space."
DANIEL VILLAO, CEO, INTELLIGENT PARTNERSHIPS, INC.
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"I thoroughly enjoy working with Lee, and have come to see her as a valuable asset and white anti-racist though leader. She is an astute trainer and facilitator. She is honest and handles sensitive topics in a straight forward manners that puts people at ease."
ELMER DIXON, PRESIDENT, EXECUTIVE DIVERSITY SERVICES
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"Lee's facilitation work with the Muslim Sisters group was invaluable–once again. This was so much more than meets the eye. She helped us establish new strategic partners, which will expand our funding base and visibility."
ANN FULLER, PROGRAM MANAGER, NORTH SEATTLE FAMILY CENTER
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"She gets it! Framing a communications strategy was our major challenge... Lee turned complex concepts into simple descriptions ... her intuitive abilities made Lee exceptionally helpful."
AARON WOOD, CEO, ELEGIA CONSULTING
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