rita (she/her/hers) is a financial empowerment educator, facilitator, and coach. She brings 14+ years of social justice experience from movement-building, direct service, and education spaces to her financial work. She founded Community Roots Financials (CRF) to create and hold space for individuals and communities of color to be whole, joyful, and free through financial empowerment.

rita uniquely interweaves the personal, emotional, and political aspects of money. While supporting people to reach their financial goals, she offers critical education to unpack the harmful effects of racism, capitalism, and classism. Through CRF, she hopes to spark greater collective organizing towards equitable economic conditions that serve the needs of all people.

Beyond work, rita is an avid crafting hobbyist and can also be seen bike-riding around town to try local eats. She is grateful to be a part of the WISE Emerging Leaders 2021 cohort and looks forward to building solidarity efforts with educators across the world!