Kwame Sarfo Mensah - Got Gemz to Tell

Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC, a global educational consulting firm that specializes in developing K-12 teachers into identity-affirming educators. Additionally, Identity Talk Consulting, LLC is licensed as a DESE-approved professional development provider and a Minority Owned Enterprise within the Commonwealth for Massachusetts.  Prior to starting his firm, he served as a middle school math teacher in Philadelphia, PA and Boston, MA for nine years. Mr. Sarfo-Mensah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Temple University.  Throughout his 17-year education career as a classroom teacher, author, and consultant, Mr. Sarfo-Mensah has earned numerous accolades for this work, which include being honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. and being recognized as a Top Education Influencer by brightbeam, Inc. in 2021 and 2022. His work has been featured in Education Week, WGBH News, Edutopia, Ed Post, The International Educator (TIE), Teaching Channel, and The Tavis Smiley Show. His latest book, "Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom", is out now.

Social Media Links:

WEBSITE - https://identitytalk4educators.com

INSTAGRAM - @kwam_the_identity_shaper

LINKEDIN - https://linkedin.com/in/kwame-sarfo-mensah

PATREON - https://patreon.com/kwamesarfomensah

YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@kwamesarfo-mensah5785

PODCAST - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/identity-talk-4-educators-live/id1509599570

Takeaways

• Kwame Sarfo Mensah transitioned from sports to education.
• He emphasizes the lack of Black teachers in schools.
• 'Learning to Relearn' focuses on capacity building in education.
• Names are an important part of identity in the classroom.
• Consulting started as a response to inquiries about his book.
• Podcasting helped him build an international network.
• Networking is more important than a resume in consulting.
• Collaboration is key in professional development.
• His understanding of identity has evolved over time.
• Authenticity is crucial in teaching and consulting. Identity is multifaceted and can create feelings of not belonging.
• Engaging with diverse backgrounds enhances understanding and awareness.
• The political climate significantly influences DEI initiatives in organizations.
• Community support is crucial for those working towards social change.
• Adapting strategies is necessary in response to political and social shifts.
• Consultants face unique challenges in client engagement due to geographical constraints.
• Outsourcing tasks can alleviate the burden of running a business.
• Professional development is essential for consultants to stay relevant.
• Multiple income streams can provide financial stability for consultants.
• Networking with other professionals can lead to shared resources and opportunities.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Kwame Sarfo Mensah

02:02Journey into Education and Teaching Philosophy

09:47Cultural Identity and Experiences in Boston

12:54Insights from 'Learning to Relearn' Book

18:05Starting Identity Talk Consulting

26:08The Role of Podcasting in Networking and Growth

35:51Bringing Authenticity into Teaching and Consulting

38:35Navigating Identity and Cultural Complexity

42:11The Impact of Political Climate on DEI Initiatives

47:33Building Community for Collective Action

52:52Adapting Strategies in a Changing Landscape

53:57Overcoming Challenges in Business Development

01:00:40Prioritizing Professional Development as a Consultant

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