Charis M. Hnin has been in community development sector for the last twelve years. Charis believes she is wired to be entrepreneurial because she infuses innovative perspectives and practices no matter what she does. Her entrepreneurial practices started at the age of sixteen when she successfully launched her first business in the food service industry, selling fresh-made Sushi at food service counters located in neighborhood grocery stores in Northwest and West Seattle. Her industry experiences include holding front-line and leadership positions in community development, housing, consumer protection, human services, educational leadership, workforce education and international business. She is Founder and Principal at Talitha Consults LLC—interdisciplinary, multilingual and people-centered community planning firm. Prior to launching Talitha Consults, Charis worked for Highline College as Director of Special Projects. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and Communications from Seattle Pacific University and a Master’s degree in Community Planning from the University of Washington. Charis finds joy in singing, dancing and eating good food with close friends and family.