TAKE A STAND AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING!
executive members
Vice President
David Manning is a native of California. A Veteran of the United States Army, he holds a degree in Criminal Justice. David has worked in law enforcement for over 19 years as a Correctional Officer and a Probation Corrections Officer. During his career, he worked with at-risk youth from the ages of 12 to 25 years old. Growing up in San Bernardino, CA, David understands the need for positive influence and a strong support system for today's youth. He believes empowering our youth and young adults is a crucial factor in our communities. David believes "emPOWERment" will give our youth and young adults the tools and resources needed to make positive changes in their lives.
Executive Assistant
Oreitha Perkins is a native Californian and recently relocated back to Bakersfield after 46 years to be with family. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from the University of California-Davis, and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky- Lexington. She has an extensive work history from teacher to law enforcement; to working as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for the California and Georgia Department of Rehabilitation, where she assisted individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain a successful employment outcome. Ms. Perkins is passionate about assisting individuals with disabilities and believe that her extensive abilities, knowledge, and skills in working in the public (and private) sector will assist "emPOWERment" with its mission and objectives in reaching and serving vulnerable citizens in California and the nation. Ms. Perkins fully supports Senate Bill 14 on Human Trafficking.
Executive Accountant
Kami Paulsen is a Bakersfield native. She is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara, an advisor, writer, speaker, and creator of Bako Box. She is an executive in the technology space with over 20 years experience advising companies such as Apple, Starbucks, Nike, and Hulu in contract legal operations, technology adoption, contract process and negotiation, sales and services delivery, adoption, and upsell opportunities for the Enterprise.
I support emPOWERment because both of our sons are adopted and could easily have been another statistic in the system. The biological mothers, of both sons, were victims of trauma and sexual abuse. I firmly believe this cycle stops with our boys and I strongly advocate for emPOWERment and the opportunity we can create for at-risk youth. We have to be the voice!
Activity Coordinator
Joyette Perkins, born and raised in Bakersfield CA, graduated from South High School. She attended two years of college. Joy is a wife of 34 years and the mother of two adult children. In 2007, with much success, Joy started her own wedding and party décor business. She recently retired from the United States Postal Service after serving 36 years. Joy supports emPOWERment because she observes the need in the community and believes this organization can help heal a generation of trauma.
Educator and At-Risk Youth Director
Paul Ogilvie was born and raised in Tehachapi, California to a pair of educators and coaches. Paul is also an educator entering his 30th year in education, counseling and coaching. He has been married to Shannan Ogilvie for the last 24 years. They have two sons Shane (31) and Hunter (22). They enjoy their grandsons Jaxton and Cade. Paul continues to be a child advocate in his work with at-risk youth as a counselor. Paul hopes to bring his relevant knowledge to this board as it relates to youth who are and have been human trafficked.
ADVISORY BOARD
Director of Public Relations and Business Development
Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
Director of Public Relations and Business Development
Michael T. Bowers is well-known and respected visionary with the capacity to provide communication strategies and direction for the business’s various platforms. Over 10 years of professional experience formulating advanced concepts and solutions that demand a high degree of, creativity, innovation, technological expertise, and ingenuity.
Michael T. Bowers is well-known and respected visionary with the capacity to provide communication strategies and direction for the business’s various platforms. Over 10 years of professional experience formulating advanced concepts and solutions that demand a high degree of, creativity, innovation, technological expertise, and ingenuity. Newly appointed to the Planning Commission for the city of Bakersfield and currently the Director of Public Relations and Business Development for Centric Healthcare in Bakersfield, CA. Progressive thinker and has served on many boards and community campaigns in Kern County.
Outreach Coordinator at Kevin McCarthy for Congress
Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
Director of Public Relations and Business Development
Christine Diaz was born in San Diego but raised in Argentina. In December of 1999 she moved back to Bakersfield to be closer to her father. Christine obtained her teaching credentials in December of 1999 while in Argentina. When she moved back to the US, she worked in banking and insurance for 20 years and she is currently Kevin McCarthy’
Christine Diaz was born in San Diego but raised in Argentina. In December of 1999 she moved back to Bakersfield to be closer to her father. Christine obtained her teaching credentials in December of 1999 while in Argentina. When she moved back to the US, she worked in banking and insurance for 20 years and she is currently Kevin McCarthy’s campaign Community Outreach coordinator; working with non profits and the community. Her new career gives her more opportunities to continue her church and community involvement. Christine has a history of cultivating relationships and uses that expertise to reach out to the community. Christine enjoys spending time with her family and pets. She also loves reading a good book. In addition, she is a proud member of the Rotary Club of Bakersfield East
Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
NaTesha “T” Johnson has a heart for Bakersfield as an architect of change. She is passionate about empowering a new generation of leaders through personal and professional development. Her contribution to building community engagement and leadership is the union of her experience as a social activist and community advocate. She is often r
NaTesha “T” Johnson has a heart for Bakersfield as an architect of change. She is passionate about empowering a new generation of leaders through personal and professional development. Her contribution to building community engagement and leadership is the union of her experience as a social activist and community advocate. She is often referred to as the “Community Connector” and an advocate for the creation, development, and general economic growth of small-to-micro minority businesses in Kern County. As the founder and owner of Upside Productions Management, a strategic partnership company in Bakersfield, CA, she specializes in cultivating relationships focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion outreach. In 2017, NaTesha founded Upside Academy, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides volunteer and community service opportunities for middle and high school youth in Kern. Also, under the tutelage of Kern College Community District Chancellor Sonya Christian, NaTesha is the Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development servicing three community colleges and five counties focusing on improving economic mobility and bringing resources to small businesses and entrepreneurs. NaTesha is a product of local schools in and around Bakersfield. She earned her Master’s in Public Administration at California State University, Bakersfield. She also received her certificate in Diversity and Inclusion, Cornell University, NY.
