Noelle Ocen-Odoge
10513 Flora Camellia Court, Santee, CA 92071 USA
Phone: 619-550-8551
Email: noelleocenodoge@gmail.com
Objective
Versatile and dedicated artist with a foundation in social work, passionate about fostering community through creative, transformative storytelling. Strong background in advocating for social justice and exploring themes of identity and resilience through art.
Education
University of California Santa Barbara, 2015
B.S. in Ecology and Evolution
B.A. in Environmental Studies
Artistic Exhibitions and Recognitions
Group Exhibition:Society of Photographic Education Members Exhibition , Reno, CA, March 2025
Personal Exhibition: “The Feast,” Olivewood Gardens Education and Learning Center, National City, CA, October 2024
Curated Group Exhibition: "Beyond the Vision," B.L.A.C., Mesa College, San Diego, CA, Feb 2023
Group Exhibition: Student Gallery, El Cajon, CA, May 2022
Featured Artist: Poster Student Gallery Exhibition, May 2022
Scholarship Recipient: Penland School of Craft, Exploratory Drawing Course by Joseph Hart, July 2023
Publications
Featured work on Grossmont College website for Student Exhibition promotion, May 2022
Professional Experience
Liberation Through Art
Founder and CEO | Feb 2024 - Present
Established a nonprofit to promote social justice and empowerment through art, with an emphasis on community outreach and healing.
Developed art-based workshops addressing racial justice and mental health.
Engaged in strategic partnerships with artists and community organizations to expand reach.
LifeSteps
Director of Social Services & Intensive Case Manager | Nov 2023 - Dec 2024
Conduct comprehensive assessments to address participants' housing, financial, and health needs.
Developed tailored social support services for individuals and families, empowering them toward self-sufficiency.
Worked closely with landlords to facilitate stable housing solutions.
Black Liberated Artist Collective
Event Coordinator | Oct 2022 - Nov 2023
Managed event planning logistics, from vendor coordination to post-event assessment.
Ensured all events adhered to budget and client standards, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for artists and community members.
SBCS Chula Vista
Youth and Family Development Associate | May 2023 - Nov 2023
Implemented trauma-informed care programs for transitional-aged youth, enhancing economic stability and life skills.
Conducted financial assessments and provided connections to financial resources.
Previous Roles in Social Work and Community Support
American Federation of Teachers - Union Intern: Organized community events and contributed to outreach initiatives.
Helping Solutions, WA - Mental Health/Disability Support Worker: Managed financial aspects of personal support plans, assisting clients with life skills and community resource access.
Henderson Health Care, WA - Clinical Concierge: Assisted with COVID screening and protocol management for healthcare workers.
Nulsen Group, WA - Youth Justice Residential Case Worker: Provided support and guidance for youth with disabilities, facilitating budgeting and life skills.
Mid-City Group, WA - Customer Service Officer: Supported insurance claim processes and managed client communication for rectification services.
Core Skills
Leadership and Strategic Planning
Community Engagement and Outreach
Trauma-Informed Care
Case Management and Client Advocacy
Artistic Skills: Drawing, Painting, Digital Art, Adobe Photoshop
Personal Statement
With over six years of experience in social services, I have developed a robust skill set in community outreach and empowerment, specializing in the intersections of art and advocacy. My work as Director of Social Services at LifeSteps and Founder of Liberation Through Art reflects a commitment to fostering resilient communities through targeted support and creative expression, amplifying voices in marginalized spaces to inspire personal and social transformation.