Angela Silva Mendes believes that self-work, based on embodied awareness, is a crucial vehicle for social justice. Her diverse academic background includes bachelor’s degrees in education, communication theories, and a master’s in international affairs. Guided by her desire to serve and her thirst for meaning, Angela also holds a range of personal development certificates including neurolinguistics programming, mindfulness, and coaching. Honoring her African heritage, Angela named her practice Upanji, meaning energy, a space of acceptance, holding what arises, and integration. With work experience in Europe, Africa, and the USA, Angela coaches, facilitates, and teaches internationally through individual sessions, workshops, and talks.