Trista Carter: Empowering Communities and Families Through Civic Engagement
In the vibrant and diverse tapestry of Los Angeles County, a remarkable individual stands out as a beacon of hope and change. Meet Trista Carter, a 34-year-old African American woman, born and raised in the heart of Southern California. A widow and a devoted mother to her two children, Sophia (11) and Kenneth III (2), Trista's journey through life has been marked by her unwavering commitment to her community and family.
A Trailblazer in Civic Engagement
Trista's commitment to making a positive impact on her community is evident in her extensive civic activities. At the forefront of her current engagements is her role as Vice Chairwoman of the African American Network of Kern County (AANKC). Since 2018, she has worked tirelessly to uplift the African American community, advocating for equal rights and opportunities.
Adding to her impressive list of roles, Trista has recently taken on the position of Executive Board Member at the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference (BWBC) in 2022. Her involvement reflects her dedication to empowering women and fostering entrepreneurship.
A Voice for Inclusivity
Trista's passion for diversity and inclusion extends beyond her role in AANKC and BWBC. She now proudly serves as Vice Chairwoman of the Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs (APAPA) since 2023. In this capacity, she champions the voices and concerns of Asian Pacific Islander Americans, advocating for their representation and empowerment.
In her role as a Committee Member of the Realizing Opportunities for Student Excellence Mentorship Program (ROSE), Trista demonstrates her commitment to nurturing the potential of the next generation of leaders. Her dedication to mentorship aligns perfectly with her strong belief in the importance of education and community support.
A Lifelong Advocate for Social Justice
Trista's dedication to social justice is further underscored by her membership in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People- Kings & Tulare (NAACP). Her involvement reflects her commitment to the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social equity.
Her participation in the Junior League of Bakersfield (JLB) serves as a testament to her belief in the power of collective action to drive positive change within her community. Together with like-minded individuals, Trista works tirelessly to address pressing social issues.
A Visionary Leader with a Professional Background
While Trista's commitment to civic activities is inspiring, her professional journey is equally impressive. As the Regional Stewardship Manager at California Forward, she leverages her expertise to promote responsible governance and community development. Her work includes supporting regional communities and economic development efforts, such as the Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF) and Advancing Inclusive Regional Economies: Going Beyond CERF (AIRE).
Trista's dedication to community development began at the local level, and she has since worked on projects at the city, county, and state levels as well. Her past roles include serving as the Resident Services Administrator with the Housing Authority of Kern and as the Executive Director of the Housing and Opportunity Foundation of Kern. These experiences have enriched her knowledge in housing, community development, and social services.
A Balance Between Civic Duty and Family
Trista Carter is not just a passionate advocate for her community; she's also a loving mother. Balancing her civic duties with the joys of motherhood, Trista cherishes the time spent with her two children, Sophia and Kenneth III. Her role as a mother is just as integral to her identity as her role as a community leader.
Trista Carter's journey from Los Angeles County to the heart of Kern County is a testament to the power of determination and the ability to make a difference. Her work in empowering communities, advocating for social justice, and her dedication to family exemplify her as a true trailblazer and an inspiration to all. In the words of Trista herself, "Change begins with us, and our collective efforts can reshape the world for the better."