Meet the Team
HEAR HERE’s diverse team works closely with our partners on design, impact strategy, and equitable engagement. We intentionally bring on locally-based creatives and activists who we meet at community events!
STRATEGIC DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
marksearch team, cultural researchers, artists and educators, lead HEAR HERE’s conceptual and technical innovation. Sue Mark and Bruce Douglas, long-time Oakland neighbors, weave relationships with community organizations, local creatives and equity groups to fortify the project’s long-term vision and sustainability.
SOCIAL MEDIA & COMMUNITY COORDINATION
Eloisa (Elo) Almaraz amplifies and presents media to uplift neighbor stories though HEAR HERE’s online presence.. She’s a facilitator and strategist with The Pax Crew, a leadership consulting group that challenges oppressive systems and unites for diversity, equity, inclusivity & accountability.
ENGAGEMENT TEAM
Ladasha Berry, longtime Oakland neighbor, activist, and motivational coach for women entrepreneurs is our lead engager. LaDasha believes that thriving communities are built on the foundations of education, arts, and culture.
Engager Mashiki Mosely, third generation Berkeley neighbor, ties his activism with the legacies of the Black Panther Party.
DOCUMENTATION
Monique Blodgett, a longtime Berkeley resident, is dedicated to helping her community through advocacy and artistic support. She specializes in photography and videography that visually uplifts people who care for others in need.
PRODUCTION
Ronnie Sampson is a fine artist and graphic designer who has lived in North Oakland since 2004. He has worked independently in digital media (print, video, animation, and interactive) for about 40 years.
Tim ‘Buna’ Babilla, musician, DJ and audio tech wizard, has been a mainstay of the Bay Area electronic scene for decades.
OUR STORY
HEAR/HERE was born from Commons Archive, a creative, grassroots history project that builds neighborhood relationships.
In the Community
HEAR HERE Community Billboard participates in community events with local partners in Oakland and Berkeley, CA. We’re passionate about building accessible resources to archive community history, stories and images. Find us virtually and on the streets!
Neighborhood Stories
Sharing stories is a human way to celebrate, grieve, and hold hope. The HEAR HERE YouTube channel features a wide range of media we’ve showcased over the years. Check out our video archive ofpowerful neighbor stories, thought-provoking questions, and community responses about pressing local issues.
Partnerships
“Lifting up the voices that normally are not heard especially during this time of gentrification, displacement, and homelessness is a healing medicine for those releasing their stories.”
‘Aunti’ Frances Moore, Black Panther Party Elder & Self-Help Hunger Program Founder
