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At Liwaru Solutions, L.L.C., we coach, facilitate, and teach organizations to build cultures of justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and wellness. Led by Dr. Sharif Z. Liwaru, Ed.D., we transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
Our Approach to Justice & Equity
Liwaru—meaning "lion" in Swahili—represents the courage needed to address systemic inequities in educational environments. Our approach combines deep expertise with compassionate guidance to help organizations create more welcoming and academically supportive environments for all.
With over 35 years of experience in social justice and education work, we specialize in interrupting inequitable practices that impact students of color and other marginalized groups.
Justice
We help organizations address historical inequities and create fair systems that serve all stakeholders.
Diversity
We embrace and celebrate differences while building cohesive communities where everyone belongs.
Wellness
We support holistic approaches that nurture emotional, social, and professional growth.
Everyone Needs a Coach
Research unequivocally demonstrates that coaching can enhance goal attainment, well-being, and resilience, in addition to reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Yet many organizations still treat coaching as a luxury rather than a sound investment in leadership.
Goal Setting
We help you establish clear objectives aligned with your personal and organizational values.
Deep Reflection
Together we'll examine your practices through a lens of race, class, and gender equity.
Sustainable Growth
Develop skills to become your best self in service to students, families, and communities.
Coaching Services
Our coaching is centered around interrupting inequitable practices. We work to create more supportive environments for students of color and other marginalized groups.
By addressing systemic issues, we aim to foster classrooms and schools where all learners can thrive. Our approach challenges the status quo and pushes for meaningful, lasting change.
Through one-on-one coaching and facilitated workshops, we empower educators and leaders to reflect critically on their biases and practices while attending to healing and wellness. Together, we develop actionable strategies to dismantle oppressive structures and build equitable, inclusive, healthy communities.
Transformational Coaching
One-on-one or group sessions to set personal goals, reflect on practices, and maintain accountability.
$150/hour - Sessions are 1-2 hours, typically monthly
Phone-A-Coach
"Speed dial" coaching for immediate support with equity issues, difficult conversations, wellness supports or meeting preparation.
$600/year - Up to 10 hours of on-demand coaching
Facilitation Services
As a master facilitator, Dr. Liwaru steps into any situation to help groups discuss, disagree, negotiate, and collaborate in authentic ways to achieve their objectives.
Assessment
Evaluate cultural dynamics and identify growth areas within your organization.
Strategic Planning
Design and implement improvement plans with equity at the center.
Awareness Building
Increase understanding of race, class, and privilege in school culture.
Data Utilization
Use equity and achievement data to inform cultural transformation.
Transforming Through Conflict
“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” - bell hooks
Embracing conflict as a catalyst for growth, rather than avoiding it, is a transformative approach to resolving differences. Dr. Liwaru is known for his expertise in guiding groups to unravel the complexities of discord and shape them into opportunities for cohesive collaboration.
Identify Issues
Uncover the underlying patterns that create dysfunction and distrust.
Process Conflict
Create brave and necessary spaces for stakeholders to address challenges directly.
Develop Solutions
Collaboratively create new norms and practices that support all members.
Sustain Change
Implement structures that maintain positive climate and productive relationships.
About Dr. Sharif Z. Liwaru
Dr. Sharif Z. Liwaru is an experienced administrator with extensive knowledge of historically marginalized students. A skilled collaborator, strategic thinker, and visionary leader, he identifies resources and implements programs that support students' academic, social, and emotional success.
With over 35 years in youth, social justice, and education work, Dr. Liwaru has progressively influenced education at the policy and system level, from serving as inaugural Director of Equity and Diversity for Omaha Public Schools to Senior Director of Regional Equity Initiatives & Partnerships in the Pacific Northwest.
1
Early Career
Began as a volunteer coach for Special Olympics and served in various youth development roles.
2
Community Leadership
President of the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation and of Phi Beta Sigma's local chapter, and board member of African Cultural Connection.
3
Educational Leadership
Assistant Director of Cultural Programs, Equity & Diversity Director, Director of Regional Equity Initiatives, Senior Director of Equity & Family.
Let's Connect
If our mission resonates with you, we should work together. Contact us today to start your organization's journey toward greater justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and wellness.
Contact Information
Phone: (971) 231-4211
Website: Liwaru.com
Our Core Values
  • Courage to address difficult truths
  • Congruence to lead with integrity and authenticity
  • Community to build spaces of belonging and shared power
  • Conviction to stand firm in justice and equity
  • Capacity-Building to uplift, mentor, and grow others
  • Compassion for all journeys and lived experiences