TEAM SPOTLIGHT
Inclusion Specialist: Julia da Silva Peres
Julia started working at Skill and Ability Education as an Inclusion Specialist in November 2025. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Wayne State University. After college, Julia worked for UofM Institute of Social Research as a Field Interviewer, researching aging and memory on Metro Detroit's population. She also worked with her former philosophy professor by helping with a presentation about Epistemic Injustice, and she taught a class on body modification for a philosophy of art class at Wayne State.
Working at Skill and Ability has given Julia opportunities to work in a field that has strong personal connections. She grew up with her uncle who had Polio. He focused his work to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil, where both Julia and her uncle are from. So, helping clients reach their goals, feel part of their community, and overcome challenges at work has been very interesting and gratifying.
Julia enjoys family time, including with her two dogs, Gibby and Tobi. Her favorite pastimes are drawing, cooking, researching body modification in many cultures, and watching movies. Lately, she has been taking on the challenge of learning to play video games.
"Work is a necessity for everyone, and being able to give access and independence should be the goal, regardless of the employee's background, difficulties, and necessities. And work can be challenging, however, diversity, equity and inclusion can make it possible for everyone to work together, and grow professionally and personally. On a macro level, I understand that a workplace depends on every employee to be able to function as a team for goals to be reached."