Carlos Smith
Carlos Smith (he/him/his) is a mentor, organizer and growth coach at the Moose Lake Correctional Facility. He works with correctional residents and members of the community to facilitate successful reintegration. Reintegration post release relies on accessibility and interactive processes that will clearly develop necessary life skills. His mantra is that skills will benefit both those with a history of incarceration and community members in a way that promotes cohesion.Over the past 28 years of incarceration, Carlos has maximized all opportunities given to improve his personal growth. He enrolled in the prison education unit at Oak Park Heights in 1994, and in 1999 he received his GED. He also pursued a two-year Associate of Arts Degree from Inver Hills Community College in 2001.Carlos believes that positive skills, a motivated mindset and useful tools are integral for long-term correctional residents when returning to society.
Shanique Ruohmaki
Shanique Ruohomaki (she/her/hers) began her work in recidivism in 2017 at the University of Minnesota. We live in what she describes as a ‘a world with many resources and little collaboration’. She is the founder of The Revolving Door Minnesota, an informational website that connects previously incarcerated men and women with post release resources.Shanique believes that we all play different roles in the intricate web of reducing recidivism and ensuring successful reintegration. If multiple people were given the opportunity to play equal roles in power mapping and formulating new ideas, then it would be easier to enact change that is neither based on selfishness or selflessness, but rather within everyone’s self interest. Shanique serves as the Lead Coordinator for CWL
Brandon Balma
Brandon Balma (he/him/his) is a fourth year student of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities. He is studying political science and public health with research focused in fields of mass incarceration and homelessness among youth.Brandon strongly believes in the power of personal narratives and storytelling. In putting people first in our language and story, we can begin to see the change we wish to see in the world. Within CWL, Brandon serves as a liaison between Carlos Smith and students at the University of Minnesota as well as those who may have interest in the organization. Brandon is also the lead organizer for ONE Our Narratives Evolving.
Amane Etefa
Amane Etefa (she/her/hers) is a second year student of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities. She is studying Global studies with a concentration in human rights as well as a minor in business law and fine arts. Amane hopes that in her future she can connect more incarcerated people with ways to have their voices heard. She believes that as our society continues to advance throughout the 21st century, our prisons should as well. Within CWL, Amane serves as a liaison between Carlos Smith and students at the University of Minnesota as well as focusing on legislative outreach.