As part of our “Get to Know Groundwork” series, we've been spotlighting members of our amazing team. This week, we’re getting to know Kezia Ofosu Atta, who joined Groundwork Ohio in January of 2023.
Kezia Ofosu Atta is the Policy Assistant at Groundwork Ohio. In this role, Kezia will support Groundwork Ohio’s mission to ensure that every child has the best chance for lifelong success. As part of her work, she will foster relationships with policy professionals and advocates to build a strong network to fight for children and their caregivers.
Prior to joining Groundwork Ohio, Kezia served in various roles in the Ohio Senate as one of the Ohio Legislative Service Commission’s Legislative Fellows in 2021. She then served as one of the Senior Legislative Aides to former Senate Minority Leader Kenny Yuko. In these roles, she gained practical experience in the legislative process, including legislative research, talking points, speech drafting, and constituent outreach.
Check out our Q&A with Kezia to learn more about why she’s a passionate advocate for young children and families in Ohio.
Q: What drew you to early childhood policy research and advocacy? Tell us more about your “why.”
I have always been interested in education policy. My time in the legislature enabled me to explore different policies, including early childhood policy research and advocacy. Through this experience, I realized that I found early childhood policy rewarding as I engaged in conversations with families and childhood policy advocates. Ever since, I have seen professions such as teaching and child care as admirable. Thus, it has become my life’s mission to become a better advocate for families and children and one day develop my advocacy firm that will focus on advocating for better educational opportunities for children with developmental disabilities.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received or a lesson that you’ve learned that has helped you in this work?
Making great connections and having the patience to see endeavors all the way through, no matter how long it takes, is one of the best pieces of advice I have received and learned that has helped me on this journey. This advice has enabled me to take failure in stride and always to see success in efforts, not just accomplishments.
Q: What’s your motivating word for 2023?
Progress. At this point in my journey, I want to see positive growth and progress in all my endeavors.
Q: When you aren’t advocating on behalf of young children and families, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy taking naps, playing my guitar, singing, and leading the Fine Arts cohort at my church.
Q: Describe a scene from your vision of the future for Ohio’s youngest children and their caregivers.
My vision for the future of Ohio’s youngest children and their caregivers is that they feel valued and understood and that their needs are met. I want Ohio to be a state where caregivers and children feel safe and heard.
Connect with Kezia on LinkedIn or by Email.