In-Person Training: Navigating Challenges for BIPOC Peer Specialists

Navigating Challenges for BIPOC Peer Specialists is a dynamic training designed to address the systemic barriers, workplace inequities, and microaggressions that BIPOC peer specialists often encounter. Through an interactive and supportive learning environment, participants will gain essential skills in cultural competency, resilience, self-care, and advocacy for systemic change. This training empowers BIPOC peer specialists to navigate challenges while fostering workplace equity and inclusion.

Participants will explore strategies for recognizing and addressing microaggressions, advocating for equitable treatment, and building resilience in the face of systemic racism. Through collaborative discussions and skill-building exercises, attendees will develop practical solutions to support themselves and their peers while fostering allyship and systemic change within their organizations.

About the trainer:
Shamona Kirkland is the Program Coordinator of the Careers in Recovery and Wellness Training Center at the Association for Mental Health and Wellness and an Outreach and Training Peer Specialist based in Suffolk County, New York. A graduate of the CRW Peer Specialist Training program in 2023, she earned her provisional certification as a New York Certified Peer Specialist in 2024 and also serves as a Training Facilitator for the program. She brings years of experience in staff and professional development to her role, empowering individuals through training and support.

With over 13 years of experience in community organizing and political campaigns, Shamona has contributed to significant initiatives such as NYC Census 2020 and NYC Test and Trace. She also hosted Rise Up with Shanixa on WBAI 99.5 FM, a show that empowered women of the African American Diaspora with a focus on inclusivity.

Residing in Copiague, New York, Shamona is a proud African-American woman, mother of two, and grandmother to a two-year-old granddaughter.