Tamara Chambers has dedicated herself to uplifting and supporting marginalized populations through the design and development of educational programming and social support resources that are responsive to the needs of all community stakeholders.
She believes strongly in cultivating agency and giving voice to those impacted by racism and oppression, while making it part of her mission to develop leaders that will continue to advocate for themselves and their community at large.
Tamara also recognizes the importance of education as a critical component of creating meaningful shifts in the larger set of systems, structures, and social norms that work to perpetuate inequities she hopes to someday eradicate.
New to the ThirdWay Leadership team, Tamara previously contributed her passion and talents to the design and delivery of youth programming for almost a decade.
As a youth educator with YWCA WNY, Tamara designed and directed programs that taught critical life skills to children of all ages. Integral to these programs was the creation of an open and empowering environment where traditionally underrepresented youth were welcomed and encouraged to take a leadership role in their education. Throughout her tenure at the YWCA, she worked tirelessly to close the education gap by providing equitable tools and resources to her students.
Tamara was also part of a team that contributed to the conception and implementation of organizational policies and procedures designed to promote anti-racism initiatives and create continued learning opportunities for YWCA staff.
Utilizing her charisma and empathy, Tamara has been highly influential in building partnerships that bring community members together in a way that promotes inclusive development. She has continued to hone her natural talent for engaging openly and authentically with a range of individuals, from policy makers to those whose voices are rarely heard, and has found success as a leader, partner, and collaborator wherever she has been called to serve.
Tamara is currently a student at the University at Buffalo in the Urban and Public Policy program. Additionally, she is also studying for the Certified Diversity Professional Exam through the Institute for Diversity Certification.
In her free time, Tamara enjoys hiking, road trips, and anything involving cozy blankets.
