GCDN Annual Convening – Los Angeles 2025

With over 28 years of experience in community development, policy analysis, and social justice advocacy, I am dedicated to creating a world where everyone feels a sense of belonging. My expertise lies in ending homelessness and dismantling systemic barriers through participatory action research, innovative program design, impactful policy development, and authentic community engagement.

As the founder and CEO of the Florence Aliese Advancement Network (FAAN), I lead a private research and community engagement firm that partners with diverse stakeholders to tackle complex social issues like homelessness and racial injustice. My work is driven by a commitment to co-creating sustainable, transformative solutions that address root causes and inspire long-term change.

I hold a Ph.D. in depth psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and am the creator of Osun Consciousness™, a groundbreaking modality that facilitates the healing of collective unconscious anti-Black racial biases and historical trauma. By integrating cultural wisdom, psychology, and collective healing practices, this approach empowers individuals, groups, and communities to foster equity and reconciliation.

In my role as a faculty member at the University of Southern California’s Price School of Public Policy, I teach a graduate-level Social Justice Seminar, mentoring future leaders in public policy and urban planning. My goal is to inspire my students to think critically, act compassionately, and lead courageously in addressing society’s most pressing challenges.

A published author, dynamic speaker, and skilled facilitator, I leverage expressive arts, storytelling, history, and interpersonal dialogue to engage and empower audiences. My work amplifies marginalized voices, bridges divides, and fosters lasting, meaningful change.