Nazmun N.M.

I grew up in a country with limited public health resources, and that experience instilled in me a deep commitment to community support. It continues to drive my passion for improving health and well-being wherever I can.

Why This Work Matters

On culturally responsive care: To me, culturally responsive, community-rooted care means

meeting people where they are and truly listening to their stories, values, and lived experiences.

Growing up around many cultures taught me to embrace differences and connect with people in a genuine, respectful way. It’s about building real relationships, honoring each family’s background, and creating a space where they feel seen, comfortable, and supported.

Connection to Altadena

Altadena’s history, culture, and spirit stand out to me because of its deep resilience and

long-standing role as a welcoming place for diverse communities. Residents of the community

have built meaningful lives and generational stability despite systemic challenges, and have

worked hard to preserve the area’s historic character. I’m also inspired by how the community

consistently comes together whether to protect cherished landmarks or to support one another.

Bringing to the Work

Strengths: Growing up in a multiethnic community in the San Fernando Valley shaped my

appreciation for cultural diversity and the value of truly listening to others. I believe that the most

meaningful lessons in life are learned through shared experiences, and I bring that open,

empathetic perspective to my work by connecting with residents on a deeper level, whether

through shared values or by honoring our differences. As a public health graduate student with

research experience ranging from chronic disease to disaster care, I also bring a strong

academic foundation to support the families I serve. Being multilingual and naturally extroverted

allows me to build trust quickly and be a supportive, friendly presence for all the families I work

with.

Beyond the Work

What brings me joy: Outside of work, I love hiking through different national parks, hosting

dinner parties, and reading as many books as I can. Most importantly, spending time with my

family and friends keeps me grounded as they’re my greatest source of motivation.

Favorite genres: Sci-Fi

When not volunteering: When I’m not volunteering with Shared Harvest Foundation, I work as a

dental assistant and proudly juggle life as a graduate public health student at USC. #FightOn.

Words I live by: "Everyday is a new beginning!"