About

DeRico Symonds is a 7th generation African Nova Scotian from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He serves as the Director of Justice Strategy at the African Nova Scotian Justice Institute (ANSJI) and is an Impact of Race and Cultural Assessor (IRCA) with ANSJI's Forensic Assessment & Treatment Unit.

DeRico is a founding member of two non-profit organizations in Halifax: ACCE HFX and GameChangers902. He holds an undergraduate degree in Child & Youth Study (2012) and a Master of Education in Counselling from Acadia University (2018). Additionally, he is a Canadian Certified Counsellor through the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association.

With over a decade of experience in community engagement and social justice advocacy, DeRico has dedicated his career to supporting marginalized communities in Halifax and beyond. His work focuses on addressing systemic racism, promoting equity, and fostering community development.

DeRico helps clients identify their strengths, build resilience, and drive meaningful impact. As a community builder he works tirelessly by a method of: 

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1. Empowering Potential

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2. Resilient Leadership Mindset

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3. Continuous Growth