DeRico Symonds

DeRico Symonds is a 7th generation African Nova Scotian. Prior to ANSJI DeRico worked for The Province of Nova Scotia for 2 years, in the Office of Equity & Anti-Racism Initiatives as Senior Executive Advisor to the deputy minister. He has also worked for the Municipal Government of Halifax for 11 years, where he spent 5 years managing community crime prevention programming. DeRico is an Impact of Race and Culture Assessment (IRCA) writer, as well as heavily involved in many issues affecting racialized and underrepresented groups. He holds an MEd in Counselling through Acadia University and an undergraduate degree from Mount Saint Vincent University. He is also a nationally certified therapist with the Canadian Counseling and Psychotherapy association.
 

In addition to his professional roles, DeRico volunteers his time to numerous causes such as supporting communities through incidences of violence, mentoring youth, creating community connections, and leading fundraisers for those in need.