Radical Imagination

Bianca is a keynote speaker, award-winning sociologist, and forthcoming author.

She is currently completing her PhD in Sociology at Rice University and is published in top academic journals, including Social Forces, Sociology of Race and Ethnicity, and Socius. She has also written for Elle Magazine, and her public scholarship has been featured in CNN, TIME, ABC7, LA Times, Cheddar News, and USA Today, among others. Her first book, UNASSIMILABLE, comes out in January 2025 with Harper Collins.

As a child of immigrants and mother to a Chinese-Filipino son, she is especially dedicated to helping Asian American communities celebrate their ethnic/racial identities, take up space in their respective fields on their own terms, and deepen their commitments to solidarity and liberation.

Previous to academia, she served Asian American youth in community-based organizations and taught Asian American Studies at college and high-school levels in the San Francisco Bay Area for nearly ten years. She currently serves on the board of Asian Texans for Justice.

Tamice Spencer-Helms is a multifaceted force for positive change based in Richmond, Virginia. As a published author, speaker, and theologian, Tamice brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every endeavor.

With a visionary spirit, Tamice founded Sub:Culture Inc. in 2018 dedicated to supporting black students holistically and providing essential crisis relief. Their academic journey includes Master’s degrees in contextual leadership and theology, with ongoing doctoral studies in social transformation.

Certified in religious trauma, LGBTQ2S+ issues, instructional design, and equity and inclusion in higher education, Tamice is committed to fostering supportive environments where everyone feels valued and respected.

Through their writing, including the book “Faith Unleavened,” and the engaging “Life After Leaven” podcast, Tamice explores themes of faith, activism, and social change, inspiring audiences with their approachable style and insightful perspectives.

Beyond their professional achievements, Tamice cherishes moments with family, appreciates fine whiskey, relishes good food, and finds joy in laughter and meaningful connections.

Angelica ‘Lica’ Acosta Garnett was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. She immigrated to the United States when she was 17 years old and has firsthand experience of what it is like to be an immigrant in this country.

Lica holds a graduate degree in social studies education and has worked as a US government teacher, Communities in Schools site coordinator, and an immigration law paralegal. She currently works as an interpreter/translator. 

Angelica understands the connection between storytelling and the immigration process and how a coherent and cohesive story is crucial for a successful case. She also understands that the process of storytelling in a safe and welcoming environment can be incredibly healing and a way to affirm dignity, and communicate respect and solidarity.