FOUNDER AND C.E.O. (Volunteer)
Dr. Izabel Olson is the founder and CEO of Salt and Light Coalition, a grassroots organization breaking the cycle of human trafficking through mind-body restoration and workforce development. Dr. Olson is dedicated to the empowerment of women, especially survivors of human trafficking as they reframe their traumatic experiences and find success in the workplace and throughout society. Prior to establishing Salt and Light Coalition, Dr. Olson was a researcher at Northwestern University, where she earned her Ph.D. in the Learning Sciences. Throughout her academic career, Olson has also earned an MA in the Learning Sciences, an MEd in International Education, a BA in Pedagogy, and a BA in Linguistics. Dr. Olson’s passion for holistic self-care combined with her robust academic training in cognitive science gives her the unique ability to positively impact women’s lives in a multifaceted way. This well-rounded approach spearheads her mission in the Salt and Light Coalition, where thoroughly researched curriculum empowers women to find restoration, healing, and develop a growth mindset so they will have the tools they need to thrive. In 2017, Dr. Olson was awarded the Illinois Secretary of State’s Latina Humanitarian Achievement Award. Today, Dr. Olson continues to shine her Brazilian fire to transform the lives of female trafficking survivors in Chicago and beyond.