Beyond the Bureaucracy: Stories of Federal Workers
The impact of federal worker layoffs has hit close to home—deeply and personally. As the spouse of a federal employee, I’ve seen the anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional toll firsthand. That experience and feeling of hopelessness is what inspired this showcase. At Arielle Lewis Studios, we wanted to do more than simply offer support—we wanted to create space to uplift, encourage, and connect for the incredible members of our community.
This showcase is a celebration of resilience, professionalism, and hope. Through powerful portraits and personal stories, we’re highlighting individuals who are navigating career transitions with strength and determination. We offered free professional headshots and the opportunity to share their journeys, and our participants have embraced the chance to not only move forward but to inspire others along the way. We are truly grateful for their openness, bravery, and vulnerability.
Thank you for joining us in recognizing the incredible people behind the headlines—people who are more than their job titles or employment status. We hope this project shines a light on their talent, their humanity, and their future potential.
Meet Elliott
Elliott comes from the Department of Energy and is looking for roles that involve project management or community engagement. He is interested in opportunities with private energy companies, utilities, or the public sector at the local, regional, or state level.
Meet Lakisha
Lakisha comes from the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency and is currently preparing to refresh her resume to gear up for the competitive job market.
Meet Laura
Laura, coming from U.S. Agency for International Development, would love to continue working to improve health and nutrition globally, possibly through a philanthropic organization. She hopes that her future work will involve strategic thinking, leading a team, as well as setting and operationalizing action plans.
Meet patsy
Patsy, formerly with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is exploring her next steps. She remains a strong advocate for better access to mental health care, the availability of opioid overdose reversal medications, and increased funding to strengthen the healthcare workforce.
Meet Maura
Maura, coming from the U.S. Agency for International Development, is looking to leverage her expertise in grants management, strategic planning, and facilitation to support foundations and social service providers, both internationally and within the U.S.
Meet Adam
Adam, formerly with U.S. Agency for International Development, is aiming to pivot his leadership, team-building, and civic engagement experience into a role at a U.S.-based nonprofit, philanthropic organization, academic institution, or mission-driven entity focused on reimagining civic leadership.
Meet Kevin
Kevin comes from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and is currently applying for teaching positions within Chicago Public Schools. While teaching has been his most meaningful pursuit, he aspires to run for public office before returning to the classroom—hoping to lead by example and one day tell his students he fought for our democracy.
Meet MARISSA
Marissa, formerly with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is open to opportunities across government, public, or private sectors. She’s passionate about working with people who strive to make a meaningful difference, particularly for those living with HIV.
More Stories coming soon…
If you’d like to share your story—anonymously or not—please use the link below. We believe that by raising our voices together, we can create change!
have you been affected?
We have compiled a list of local resources that may be of benefit to you….
And a huge thank you to our amazing Hair and Makeup Artist Volunteers!
Carla Pressley
Carla Pressley is a seasoned hair and makeup artist with over 16 years of experience in the beauty industry, beginning her career with PR @ Partners and MAC Cosmetics in the Washington D.C. area. Born in the year of the dog and a sentimental Cancer, this mixed African American/Korean artist is a proud military brat who brings a diverse perspective to her work. While capable in cutting, coloring, relaxing, and perming hair, she now primarily focuses on styling and on-location makeup for photoshoots, television, productions, and events.
Recognized for her talent and service, Carla was a 2023 Business Mentor for The Knot and Wedding Wire and was inducted into The Knot’s Hall of Fame in 2023. Her mobile hair and makeup company boasts a skilled team trained by her, serving a wide array of clients including Netflix, Project Runway, Macy’s, Tarte, Microsoft, Marc Jacobs, RuPaul, Ali Wong, CNN, Heads of State, corporate executives, high-profile individuals, celebrities, magazines, and Martha Stewart Weddings. Carla is passionate about helping clients feel confident and is known for her naturally glamorous looks and calming presence.
Iman Derder
Iman Derder is a professional makeup artist with over 7 years of experience — based in Washington, D.C., Iman offers services throughout the DMV area and is available for travel. Her expertise spans bridal, editorial, and red carpet–ready glam, with a passion for enhancing natural beauty while bringing each client’s vision to life.
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