Wahidah Niek

About Wahidah Niek

I build people-first, data-driven, and strategic DEI programs that create lasting impact. With a focus on scalability and sustainability, I design operational frameworks, engage executive leadership, and drive measurable outcomes that embed DEI into business operations. Strategic & Scalable DEI LeadershipI’ve launched and expanded DEI initiatives across multiple organizations, leveraging employee data, best practices, and executive collaboration to drive real change. I focus on building sustainable programs that outlast trends and have crafted multi-year strategic plans to ensure initiatives align with both organizational goals and the needs of our ever-adapting communities. Operational Excellence & EfficiencyI develop sustainable frameworks, from ERG charters and SOPs to DEI policies that safeguard dedicated time for inclusion work, boosting operational efficiency and impact while keeping people at the center.🤝Executive & Employee EngagementI bridge the gap between leadership and employees—successfully increasing executive sponsorship (up to 80%) and broadening DEI engagement (31% of staff participating). I\'ve created policies like Defined Time for DEI work, ensuring employees have space to actively engage without barriers. Data-Driven & Social ImpactDEI isn’t just about passion—it’s about results. I use surveys, dashboards, and feedback loops to measure impact, refine strategies, and scale initiatives that create lasting cultural shifts. Passionate about increasing access for historically marginalized communities, I integrate stakeholder feedback into continuous improvement efforts that create lasting, positive change.I thrive at the intersection of strategy, execution, and impact, making DEI not just a series of programs, but a core part of an organization’s DNA.

Experience

1. Program Manager, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

   Farestart

   Jul 2024 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

Education

• Northeastern University

  Master’s Degree, Public Administration

  2013 — 2016

• University of Washington

  Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major + Diversity Minor

  2006 — 2011

• Northeastern University

  Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy, and Social Change

  2013 — 2016

Skills

• Youth Development
• Social Networking
• Powerpoint
• Microsoft Excel
• Customer Service
• Fundraising
• Higher Education
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Social Media
• Program Development
• Management
• Workshop Facilitation
• Leadership
• Event Management
• Public Speaking
• Microsoft Office
• Non-Profits
• Communication
• Data Entry
• Recruiting
• Volunteer Management
• Training
• Community Outreach
• Event Planning
• Research
• Program Management
• Nonprofits