About

DeRico Symonds is a 8th generation African Nova Scotian from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He serves as the Director of Engagement and Justice Initiatives at the African Nova Scotian Justice Institute (ANSJI) and is an Impact of Race and Cultural Assessor (IRCA) with ANSJI's Forensic Assessment & Treatment Unit.

DeRico holds an undergraduate degree in Child & Youth Study (2012) and a Master of Education in Counselling from Acadia University (2018). Additionally, he is a Canadian Certified Counsellor through the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association.

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DeRico is actively engaged in numerous community initiatives, committees, and policy discussions. He brings a diverse and extensive background in community service, with experience supporting and leading initiatives focused on gun violence prevention, trauma recovery, policy reform, anti-Black racism, and change management across government, non-profit, and grassroots sectors.

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With over a decade of experience in community engagement and social justice advocacy, DeRico has dedicated his career to supporting communities in Halifax and beyond. His work focuses on addressing barriers to access, equitable environments, and systems change.

DeRico helps clients identify their strengths, build resilience, and drive meaningful impact. As a community builder he works tirelessly by a method of: 

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1. Empowering Potential

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2. Resilient Leadership Mindset

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3. Continuous Growth