About
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Background
With over 40 years of experience in nonprofit arts and board governance, executive leadership, program management, community development, funding, strategic planning, retreat facilitation, and curation, I have a wealth of knowledge to offer. As an End-of-Life Doula, I have expanded my services to help people navigate challenging transitions with compassion and care.
At Cre8tive Navigators, I approach consulting from a perspective of common humanity, working with nonprofits and individuals to find clarity in their direction, create a positive environment, and provide support every step of the way. I specialize in working with spiritual leaders, rural community development organizations, artists, and arts-based groups, with an emphasis on supporting entities led by those who identify as black, indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC).
Operating at the speed of trust and in the spirit of love
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1:1 Coaching
My one-on-one coaching services offer a non-colonized approach to leadership development, strategic planning, and self-actualization. I believe in assisting my clients to move beyond just the head-first approach and integrate multiple intelligences through the arts, including visual, musical, movement, and writing. With my fun, engaging, and accessible methods, I can meet individuals where they are to help them achieve their growth goals.
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Nonprofit & Groups
As a professional dancer, choreographer, and arts administrator, I've honed my skills as a deep listener and facilitator. These experiences have given me the tools to assist with board governance, transitional leadership, team dynamics, program creation, program management, and more. Having gone through the stages of nonprofit management many times, I understand that each situation is unique and requires a committed, personalized approach.
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Hospice Care
I offer compassionate death doula services to individuals and families in need of support during times of loss and grief. With a wealth of personal experience in coping with loss, including the passing of my own parents, siblings, niece, and canine companion, I bring deep empathy to those in need of assistance. My services include afterlife and hospice care, animal transitions, and group/family mediation, using embodied facilitation to aid the grieving process.
Sandy’s Bare Bones
Growing up in South Minneapolis, I was the youngest of 8 children born to a Filipino immigrant father and Euro-mix mother. Their down-to-earth values of loving people and all animals, helping neighbors, growing gardens, and finding joy in life have been my guiding principles. We often sang and danced together, to Motown or Hawaiian music, and these experiences have instilled in me a love of the arts.
I began formal training on the piano at age 10 and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Dance Therapy. Over the last 40 years, I have expanded my education and experience, becoming a master teaching artist and devoting 35 years to nonprofit arts programming, administration, and board governance.
My unique history has given me a fresh perspective and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Through my work as a keynote speaker, guest panelist, and mentor to gifted creators, I have honed my ability to understand and collaborate with others. At Cre8tive Navigators, I use this lens to help individuals and organizations start movements and find their path to success.
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At Cre8tive Navigators, I also offer compassionate end-of-life support services as a death doula. For years, I have been called upon to assist individuals and families experiencing the intense grief of losing loved ones, both human and animal. My own personal experiences with loss, including the passing of my parents, siblings, niece, and beloved canine companion, have given me a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the grieving process. I act as a humble guide and companion, providing emotional, physical, and spiritual support to help individuals and families navigate this bewildering and isolating journey with greater ease and comfort.
Recognition, Speaking & More
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Big Brothers Big Sisters
Mentor to youth in the Twin Cities and surrounding area.
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Creative Cultural Leadership Institute
Co-Founder. Program originally housed at Intermedia Arts.
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Doulagivers Institute — End-of-Life Doula
Certified 2023 and honoring traditional and cultural practices.
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Jerome Foundation
Recognized for innovation and creativity
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Mind Body Solutions — Adaptive Yoga
Certified to facilitate a trauma-informed yoga practice.
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St. Cloud State University — Keynote
Power in Diversity Conference | 2023
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Travelers — St. Paul
Leadership Initiative in Neighborhoods Grant recipient.
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University of Minnesota - Guest Speaker
Master of Professional Studies in Arts and Cultural Leadership Program
Sandy’s Recommended Playlist
I use a variety of tools in my proverbial bucket to help facilitate massive shifts in the lives and works of my client partners. From movement to sensory play, all senses are engaged in order to see and treat the whole person. One of my most beloved mechanisms in healing is the power of sound — whether it be words of affirmation, chimes, or the music that guides our histories. Many of my client collaborators have benefitted from the playlists I curate with their transitions in mind. I’ve included the playlist Songs for Leaders for your listening ears. May it help lift you to the calling of your Highest Good!
Sandy