Noureen Hashim-Jiwani is a senior policy executive and public servant who believes government should empower communities rather than manage them. With a background in community organizing and civic leadership, she leads statewide policy efforts focused on equity, efficiency, and justice - with a focus on mental health, food and housing access, and youth economic opportunity, areas she sees as essential dignity and belonging. Noureen describes her leadership as a bridge between two lights: one to see injustice clearly and one to imagine what's possible, guiding her as a pragmatic optimist, grounded in reality and reaching for hope.
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The First Time is a live lit and music series recorded at Martyrs’ in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood. Each reader tells a true first tale, followed by a cover of the storyteller’s choosing, performed by our house band: The First Time Three.
The First Time is hosted by Jenn Sodini. Executive producer is Bobby Evers. Assistant producer is Celina Dietzel. Podcast produced by Jim Mulvaney.