Sheena Kadi, MBA, is a pioneering voice for LGBTQ advocacy, political strategy, and community empowerment. Based in Denver, Colorado, she has spent over two decades championing equality and justice across local, state, national, and international platforms. A queer Arab American woman, Sheena’s journey from adversity—including surviving conversion therapy and homelessness—to becoming a respected leader reflects her unwavering resilience and determination to foster systemic change.
Sheena’s career is built on advocacy, community organizing, and empowering others to find their voices. Her tenure as Deputy Director at One Colorado, the state’s leading LGBTQ advocacy organization, is marked by transformative achievements, including banning conversion therapy, passing Jude’s Law, and increasing access to HIV and AIDS medications like PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). Her passion for representation and equity extends to mentoring future leaders, advocating for inclusive policies, and creating platforms for marginalized voices.
Outside of her work, Sheena is a cancer survivor, a lover of astronomy, kayaking, live music, and a strong believer in the power of community. She attributes her success to the guidance of mentors, the resilience she cultivated through adversity, and the belief that every challenge is an opportunity to make the world better for future generations.
Sheena, your career spans two decades in communications, policy, and advocacy. What inspired you to focus on equity and authenticity in your work?
My journey began with a deep belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table. Growing up as a queer Arab American woman, I experienced firsthand how systems can exclude and silence people. I channeled that frustration into action by founding PRISM, the first LGBTQ student organization at a Catholic university in Ohio. That experience showed me the power of grassroots organizing and the impact of creating spaces where people feel seen and valued. From there, my focus on equity and authenticity became a guiding principle—not just as ideals, but as necessities for progress.
One of your standout achievements was working on the Obergefell v. Hodges case. How did you approach advocating for marriage equality?
Advocating for marriage equality was about sharing stories that resonated universally while staying authentic to the individuals involved. I worked closely with the plaintiffs, including Jim Obergefell, to help them craft and share their stories in ways that highlighted their humanity. We wanted people to see their struggles and joys as reflections of their own lives. That’s where authenticity becomes so powerful—it dismantles barriers and connects people on a deeply human level. By coupling those narratives with strategic field organizing and coalition building, we helped shift public opinion and ultimately made history.
Authenticity is a recurring theme in your career. How do you foster it in your leadership and communication strategies?
Authenticity starts with listening. Whether I’m leading a team, crafting a campaign, or engaging with stakeholders, I prioritize creating an environment where people feel safe and valued enough to be themselves. In my role as Deputy Director at One Colorado, for example, we ran campaigns to ban conversion therapy and pass Jude’s Law. These efforts were successful because we amplified voices from within the LGBTQ community, ensuring they were the ones leading the charge. Authenticity also means being transparent and holding yourself accountable—it’s about walking the talk.
Equity and inclusion often involve challenging conversations. How do you navigate those moments, especially when encountering resistance?
Challenging conversations are opportunities for growth, but they require patience and preparation. When I served as the LGBTQ Liaison for the City of Toledo, one of my tasks was to raise the city’s HRC Municipal Equality Index from 58 to 100. This meant confronting biases and misconceptions, sometimes with people who were resistant to change. I focused on building relationships and finding common ground—whether through shared values or shared goals. I also relied on data and storytelling to make the case for equity, ensuring that the conversation wasn’t just about morality but also about tangible benefits for the community.
You’ve worked on high-pressure campaigns like those for President Obama and Secretary Clinton. What’s your secret to maintaining authenticity under pressure?
Pressure can sometimes tempt people to cut corners or resort to generic messaging, but that’s when authenticity matters most. In those moments, I double down on my commitment to clear communication and staying true to the mission. For example, during the Clinton campaign, I managed on-the-ground rapid-response communications in a fast-paced environment where every second counted. By keeping the focus on values and purpose, we ensured our messaging resonated even amid the chaos. It’s about being consistent and unwavering in what you stand for, regardless of external pressures.
Speaking of values, how do you integrate equity into everyday workplace practices?
Equity has to be woven into the fabric of an organization—it can’t be a buzzword or an afterthought. As Communications Director for the Colorado Department of the Treasury, I’ve worked on initiatives like the CLIMBER loan program, which supports small businesses, particularly those in underserved communities. Beyond external programs, I’m intentional about mentorship and team-building within the workplace. I’ve mentored young professionals from diverse backgrounds, helping them advance in their careers while ensuring their voices are amplified. Equity isn’t just about outcomes; it’s about processes, representation, and access.
Can you share a time when you turned adversity into an opportunity for advocacy?
Absolutely. When I was in Indiana working to stop HJR-3 and HJR-6, measures aimed at banning same-sex marriage, the political climate was incredibly hostile. Instead of letting that deter us, we mobilized an in-district operations program that connected constituents with legislators. We arranged over 300 constituent meetings and facilitated meaningful conversations with key decision-makers. The adversity of those proposals pushed us to build a stronger, more strategic coalition that included bipartisan elected officials, faith leaders, and Fortune 500 companies. It was a reminder that even in the face of opposition, advocacy can spark change.
How do you balance authenticity with the strategic demands of public relations?
Authenticity and strategy are not mutually exclusive—in fact, they complement each other. The key is aligning your strategy with your values. When working on the Colorado Open to All campaign, we strategically framed messages around inclusion and economic impact while staying true to the core message of diversity and belonging. The result was a campaign that resonated with businesses and consumers alike. It’s about understanding your audience and finding the sweet spot where authenticity amplifies your strategic goals.
As someone who builds and leads diverse teams, what’s your approach to fostering inclusivity?
Inclusivity starts with representation and respect. When building teams, I prioritize hiring people from diverse backgrounds and ensuring they have the tools and support to succeed. Once the team is in place, I foster a culture where everyone feels their contributions are valued. For instance, when I managed a unionized team of young, passionate staff members, I emphasized open communication and collaborative decision-making. Inclusivity is also about continuous learning—acknowledging that none of us have all the answers and being willing to adapt and grow together.
You’ve worked across various sectors, from government to nonprofits. How do you adapt your advocacy and communication strategies to different audiences?
Adaptability is critical because every sector and audience has its own nuances. In government roles, like my time in the City of Toledo and the Colorado Treasury, communication often focuses on transparency and public trust. In nonprofit work, like with Metro Caring and One Colorado, it’s about rallying communities and building coalitions. The common thread is understanding your audience—their values, concerns, and motivations—and tailoring your approach accordingly. Whether it’s a press release, a campaign strategy, or a one-on-one conversation, the goal is always to meet people where they are while staying true to your mission.
What role does storytelling play in advancing equity and authenticity?
Storytelling is at the heart of both equity and authenticity. Stories humanize issues and make them relatable, bridging gaps that data alone can’t fill. When we were building support for marriage equality in Ohio, we collected over 20,000 pledge cards and shared stories from every corner of the state. Those stories weren’t just about LGBTQ individuals; they were about families, faith, and love—values that resonate universally. Storytelling creates empathy and drives action, making it one of the most powerful tools for advocacy.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to advocate for equity in their community?
Start by listening and learning. Understanding the needs and experiences of your community is the first step. From there, find ways to get involved—whether it’s joining an advocacy group, volunteering, or simply starting conversations with neighbors. Don’t underestimate the power of small actions—they build momentum. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and challenge the status quo. Advocacy requires courage and persistence, but the impact is worth it.
What’s next for you in your mission to empower authenticity and advance equity?
I’m always looking for new ways to make an impact, whether through my current role or new opportunities. I’m particularly interested in how we can harness technology and digital platforms to amplify underrepresented voices. At the same time, I’m committed to mentoring the next generation of advocates and leaders, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to carry this work forward. Ultimately, my goal remains the same: to create a world where everyone feels empowered to live authentically and equitably.
Finally, how do you stay motivated in this challenging yet rewarding work?
My motivation comes from the people I work with and the communities I serve. Every time I see someone’s story create change, it reaffirms why I do this work. I’m also motivated by the progress we’ve made—and the recognition that there’s still so much to be done. Advocacy is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s important to celebrate the victories along the way while staying focused on the bigger picture. For me, it’s not just about what we’re fighting against but what we’re building—a more equitable, authentic, and inclusive future for everyone.