Keeping the bigger picture in mind, getting out of your comfort zone, and studying abroad are just some of the components important to our employee spotlight, Bright O.
How long have you worked at Neighborhood? What is your position, and what do you enjoy most about your position?
I’ve been at Neighborhood for more than three years, most recently working as the Assistant Product Manager for the MMP Product team. The most rewarding part of my job is managing and working with various vendors to provide supplemental benefits to Neighborhood members, such as the YMCA (gym), Solutran (Healthy Food Savings Card), Papa Pals (companionship benefit), and Mom’s Meals (post-discharge meals).
What did you do before joining Neighborhood? Did any position or experience prepare you for current position, and why?
I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst in 2016. Shortly after graduating, I worked as a Quality Improvement Associate at Tufts Medicine Integrated Network (formerly New England Quality Care Alliance). Working with Providers to help them track and improve their HEDIS scores gave me great foundational knowledge and real-world experience with the ins- and outs- of the complicated healthcare system. While with NEQCA, I also earned my Master of Public Health (MPH) degree with a concentration in Healthcare Management from the Boston University School of Public Health in 2021.
Are there any projects or committees you were involved in at Neighborhood that stand out to you?
Two stand out to me. My volunteer days at Meals on Wheels and serving as co-lead for a Childhood Obesity workgroup have really meant a lot to me. When MMP implemented the “Food Bag Pilot” program with “Meals on Wheels,” I organized groups of employees to assist with packing bags of shelf-stable foods for designated MMP members. I really loved these volunteer days as it gave me a great opportunity to connect with coworkers in a fun way, and it also felt great to see how we were positively impacting the lives of so many members facing food insecurity. Additionally, shortly after joining Neighborhood’s Health Equity Workgroup in 2022, I became a co-lead for the Childhood Obesity Subgroup where we researched initiatives to help address the prevalence of overweight and obese children living in Rhode Island. Along with my co-lead and others, we conduct research, present findings and programming ideas to leadership. In addition, the group will participate in the Back to School Celebration event, sharing materials and resources about proper nutrition, exercise, healthy living and wellness.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up and am from Boston, Massachusetts.
Are there special childhood, teenage years, adult years, or family memories?
In my first semester of my senior year in undergrad, I studied abroad in Khon Kaen, Thailand where I worked with classmates to evaluate national health issues as well as those in local rural communities. At the end of the program, we proposed interventions and educated locals on various health and wellness topics. That trip and time holds a special place in my heart. It was the first time I lived outside the United States, and learning about a new culture and being exposed to all new experiences helped me to grow immensely as a person.
What activities/classes did you enjoy in school?
One of my fondest memories from high school was participating in several dances and even choreographing a hip-hop styled dance for my school’s annual Winter Dance Concert during my junior and senior years. I was kind of a superstar back then…
How do you enjoy spending time outside of work?
I like to spend most of my time outside of work relaxing at home, listening to music or catching up on my favorite TV shows, going for walks, hanging out with friends at a cookout or a wedding, going to the movies, going to concerts, and travelling.
Can you share a “Fun Fact” that others might find surprising/interesting about you?
A fun fact about me is that one of my prominent hobbies is vlogging. I have a YouTube channel where I make videos about my other passion outside of healthcare – music. On the channel you will find reviews and reactions to songs, albums, and music videos in the R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop genres. My coworkers hilariously help me promote my channel. Honestly, I am happy to talk with anyone about it when they run into me!
Is there any advice or mantra that you would share with someone interested in this work, or mission?
For me, keep the bigger picture in mind as well as the goal that’s connected to the work you do. With so many different teams and projects all operating at the same time at Neighborhood, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by daily tasks and stresses. Once you remember, however, the work you do directly impacts the members we serve and the bigger organization, it gives you purpose and a drive that makes the hard work worth it. As someone who works in a managerial capacity, and for anyone interested in this type of work, I suggest utilizing every resource available. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and introduce yourself to people in the roles you want to hold one day. Joining ERGs, workgroups, and other committees can be invaluable to connecting you with the opportunities and network of people that can change your life.