Meet Ambessa Cantave, who joined GRID Bay area in 2019 as a Workforce Development Manager before transitioning to Community Outreach Specialist. Ambessa is also a Hip-Hop musician, and a recovering serial entrepreneur. His background lies at the intersections of program management, sustainable activism and education, and providing professional development opportunities for transitional-aged youth.
How did you come to GRID?
I came to GRID after seeking to enter the Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity space, as this field became interesting to me. I found Wanda online and she referred me to the Workforce Development Manager position, I applied and the rest, as they say, is history.
What is your favorite part of what you do at GRID?
I love to strategize with different teams on improving our processes to better serve solar clients, as well as finding more ways to make equity, diversity, and inclusion practices more visible in our work.
Who is a current Black history-maker that people should know about, or has influenced your work?
Alicia Garza, one of the founders of Black Lives Matter.
What’s one thing GRID is working on now that you’re really excited to see happen this year?
Community Solar projects, International and Tribal programs, Workforce Development.
What is your vision for an environmentally just future?
Opportunities for diverse communities all over the world to have active community gardens that compensate their members for growing their own foods, learning permaculture, learning to install solar and everything required to maintain these gardens.