Testimonials

Here is what people have to say about working with Sima.

“…Sima has a talent for this stuff, and I’m lucky I got to experience it!”

I am part of a grassroots org that was experiencing intense conflict. The energy was so heavy and the narrative so convoluted it felt like things would never shift. We were offered the opportunity to work with Sima in a healing circle and I initially thought it would be pointless because of how futile everything felt. I still don't know how Sima did it, but I came to the circle feeling scared and depleted and I left feeling connected and hopeful. Sima held the circle with steady gentle energy and I got to experience healing and radical vulnerability. Something shifted in me that day. It's amazing what can bloom inside of us under skillful stewardship.

-***Kasi Chakravartula***

Community Activist and Council Member, Asian Prisoner Support Committee

“…I was so grateful for the skills and practices she demonstrated.”

Sima facilitated a group meeting for my housing cooperative during a transitional moment for us all. She was able to call in and unpack the power dynamics in the room with ease and comfort. She helped us create the appropriate structures to implement policy changes and reminded us of the importance of tending to our seeds.

***-Saberhe Kashi***

Resident and Co-founder, Golden Gate Housing Cooperative

“…Despite the extremely difficult and complex situation that I was experiencing, she helped me gain a new perspective and make significant progress towards healing.”

Sima helped me gain insight into a mediation and healing process during one of the most difficult interpersonal conflicts that I've ever experienced. Through her guidance, I gained a better understanding of the conflict and the ways that all parties were deeply impacted. She was extremely thoughtful, supportive, and kind throughout. -Anonymous

“…Her facilitation has helped us create our own practices for healing and transformation in the face of tension within our organizing spaces, which helps our collective resilience.”

Sima brought care, patience, and structure to support ASATA's Accountability Working Group. She provided models for restorative justice circles, one on one mediation, and careful documentation of processes while honoring confidentiality. ”

***- sabiha basrai***

Coordinator and Co-founder, Alliance of South Asian’s Taking Action

“…She held space for us in a way that helped all of us to feel safe, relaxed, and heard.”

My organization worked with Sima to support building community at our Youth Empowerment Village. We were a newly opened transitional housing program for housing-insecure young adults. Our community was moving through a difficult transition process as we "stormed and normed," so to speak. The culture of the housing program was in development. Sima provided our residents with a much-needed moment of groundedness. She offered structure, and pathway for radically inclusive communication that went a long way for us during a critical moment.

***- Jilly de la Torre***

Case Manager and Tiny House Project Coordinator, Youth Spirit Artworks

“…The process was in depth and involved a lot of prep before the circle and there was space for follow up after the circle was finished in order to ensure agreements were established. "

Sima is a great restorative justice based facilitator. She creates a very comfortable and welcoming space where deep and difficult conversations can be had in a restorative fashion. The restorative process felt very safe, yet very challenging at the same time and that is the space where growth, healing, restoration and forgiveness happen. I would recommend her services to any individuals or organizations looking for a community oriented rj facilitator that is invested in restoring relationships.

***-max cadji***

Council Member and co-founder, North Oakland Restorative Justice Council

“…I gained a lot of insight from her approach and praxis.”

Her technical knowledge of her craft was conducive to generating critical dialogue. I will continue to hold the lessons shared in mind as our fellowship moves forward.