I attended a Women's Wellness workshop with Unlock Your Story. The class was amazing and unlike anything I've done before. When Cierra brings movers, makers, and creators together, magic happens. Cierra effortlessly empowers and uplifts those around her. She creates a safe space for everyone to move, reflect, and learn, which allows incredible opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

— Lauren Parker, OWNER - Lauren Parker PHOTOGRAPHY & LOve, Lauren | Creative

Cierra presented to my Diversity & Oppression course at Rutgers University in the fall of 2019.  She shared her life’s journey that lead to the founding of Unlock Your Story and spoke to the class on what Social Justice means to her and how she uses a storytelling framework in the Speak Your Truth program to engage individuals in dismantling the oppressive narratives that society has formed around them.  Throughout the presentation, Cierra reinforced an environment of empathetic engagement with the class of seniors by sharing her life experiences and indicating where she was as herself in that particular moment.  From my humble opinion, Cierra strengthened their resolve to become Social Justice Advocates. 

— MAtthew mayo, ADJUNCT PROFESSOR & SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM COORDINATOR

The Social Justice Storytelling workshop was one of the best virtual experiences I've had yet! Cierra was a fantastic facilitator. I loved learning about resistance stories and expanding my knowledge of history. I really appreciated the detailed follow ups each week and the commitments to action. It has helped me stay accountable.

-Michelle mckeever, admissions & Marketing specialist

I was fortunate enough to have Cierra as my mentor in the Miss America Organization. She constantly went out of her way to encourage and assure me that just being ‘Amy’ is more than enough. Listening to Cierra’s emotion and vulnerability during her mock interviews let me realize that the Miss America Organization wants a real person, with real emotions, representing them. She was named Miss New Jersey, and awarded as a top five finalist for the interview portion at Miss America. Cierra fine-tuned my paperwork and presentation to ensure both were accurate representations of me as a whole person. She made me feel comfortable talking about the impacts I felt from my parents’ separation, and how my financial difficulties inspired me to complete college in three years. The negative and positive elements of my life make me who I am, and Cierra taught me to embrace them. I am proud to say the authentic woman I have presented to the judges has won five preliminary interview awards, including one at the state level. I would have never been as open to being vulnerable, confident, and convicted without Cierra’s setting example and constant encouragement. She helped me realize I would rather lose a pageant as Amy, than win as someone else. Being unapologetically and completely yourself is far more important.

— Amy phillips, miss cape may county 2019 (miss america organization)

I was provided with a space that washed away my pain, that stripped me of my hospitality syndrome, and allowed me to regain control and power over my own narrative. My voice is a political act and this event reminded me of that so eloquently. I am beyond thankful!

- Kyla leary, student - Urban Teachers Resident

Prior to my consultation with Cierra, I had no background knowledge or experience related to story-telling. During my consultation, Cierra struck me as a remarkable listener with an open attitude, which helped her efficiently discern my advisement needs. Using her suggestions and the resources she provided, I was able to advise a small team to produce a story-telling series about climate change. Thank you, Cierra!

— Jessica O'Neill, MPH, (doctoral candidate in Community Health and Health Behavior at the University at Buffalo and National Representative and co-founder of the Buffalo, NY chapter of 500 Women Scientists)

I had the pleasure of inviting Cierra to speak at Monmouth University's first Inclusion Week. Cierra was the first spotlight speaker to kick off Inclusion Week and she shared an inspiring talk about storytelling for social justice. As a young woman of color, Cierra explained that she chose to embrace who she is by telling her story in an expressive way that is therapeutic. After hearing her story, I became inspired to tell my own story. She leads by example, and has defeated the odds that have stood against her. She is a true inspiration, and a game changer that will impact future women leaders. As a woman, I am truly glad that I know her, but most importantly I will forever be grateful for her story.

— Alexis Jenkins, Life and career coach

Cierra is a magnificent facilitator. I'm still surprised by how much she was able to cover while still allowing space for self-reflection and honest shares. I'm grateful for all that I learned and for all the resources I've been given to continue my learning.

- Maria macsay, Embodiment coach & Director of training