The Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact (LIPPI) is proud to highlight the accomplishments of another incredible LIPPI alumna. Gillian Hinkson is a post-conviction victim witness advocate at the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office. In this role, Gillian helps victims and witnesses of crime within Hampden County.
Gillian became interested in joining the LIPPI program after attending previous LIPPI graduations. Hearing the impact LIPPI had on other women’s lives and feeling the energy in the room was motivation for her to join. Gillian knew, “it was something she had to experience for herself.”
As a member of the 2017 cohort, Gillian was given the support of powerful, like-minded women, which gave her the power to feel stronger and be more confident. In her words, “It’s like having my superwoman cape on times 50.” For Gillian, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, it is important for women to become involved in politics and public affairs – because it challenges the status quo and gives women more voice in their daily lives. As a result, Gillian is a member of the Board of Directors, League of Women Voters Springfield/Northampton chapter, and is very active in her local community. Recently, Gillian led the campaign as campaign manager for a local candidate running for Springfield City Council. Gillian used the tools and tips she learned in LIPPI to become more civically involved in her community.
Gillian encourages other women interested in engaging with their community to follow their heart. She urged, “The desire to grow politically was placed on your heart because you see the value in stepping up and making a change. Just be sincere about your desire, passion is everything. And don’t be afraid to fail, because failure means you stepped out and tried and you’re not just talking.”
The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts is proud of passionate women, like Gillian, who continue to foster growth in her community.
