I’m Risikat, the proud daughter of a Nigerian immigrant father and a Black American mother, and a native of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. I’m passionate about bridging cultural divides and making complex processes accessible to everyone. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on advocating for communities, promoting equity, and empowering others through strategic communication.

I earned my Bachelor’s in Anthropology, where I developed a strong understanding of human behavior and cultural dynamics. My professional journey began with AmeriCorps in Weld County, Colorado, where I worked to help new American families navigate the challenges of educational institutions. During my time there, I built relationships with over 25 families and helped their students achieve academic success.

I spent nearly five years working in the nonprofit sector, focusing on helping families experiencing homelessness secure housing, expand educational opportunities, and navigate the complex family court system. One of my proudest accomplishments during this time was securing housing for over 350 families and providing individual case management services. Near the end of my work, I partnered with a colleague to offer workshops on eliminating bias while working with the chronically homeless population.

After earning my Master’s in Strategic Communication Management, I took my skills to the public sector. I worked as a communications expert for nonprofits and government agencies, then later advocated for environmental justice at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. I helped bring the State's first Environmental Justice Framework to life, in addition to working on high-profile cases such as the 2019 Northern Metals case, which resulted in $600,000 being directly appointed to the most affected community members. I also worked on a brief assignment for the Environmental Council of the States in Washington, D.C. 

As Press Secretary and Deputy Communications Director for Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon, I worked tirelessly to protect Minnesotans’ right to vote. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I developed strategies for outreach through press releases, media interviews, social media, and public-facing educational campaigns. I later served as Communications Director for Secretary Simon’s 2022 re-election campaign, where I helped remind Minnesotans of Secretary Simon's contributions and strengthened connections with often-ignored communities, in particular, Black and Brown Minnesotans, Minnesotans with disabilities, and Minnesotans previously involved in the justice system. 

Now, I’m heading the Communications Division for the City of Brooklyn Park, leading a dynamic team to enhance public engagement and improve communication transparency with over 82,000 residents. In this role, I continue to champion inclusivity, effective communication, and integrity above all. 

I’m driven by the belief that everyone deserves a voice, and I’m committed to using my expertise to build a more inclusive and informed future for all.

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​Here's the short version:
​I care a lot so I try to do my part. If you want to get REALLY close and personal, ask me about my pug - her name is Maya. 

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