Panel: Trapped in the Homeless Hustle

This panel is a call to action for policymakers, advocates, and community members to collaborate on sustainable solutions for housing and economic stability. It will include a powerful discussion aimed at addressing homelessness, workforce development and community resilience. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of systemic causes of homelessness and practical ways to drive change. Join the conversation and be part of the movement for housing justice! 

Topics of Discussion: 

• Redlining & Housing Discrimination– Examining historical policies that have led to modern-day housing disparities. 
• Barriers to Affordable Housing– Addressing rental discrimination, evictions, and systemic obstacles to securing stable housing. 
• Homelessness & Employment – Exploring workforce development strategies to break cycles of poverty. 
• Community-Based Solutions – Highlighting grassroots efforts, policy innovations, and advocacy initiatives making an impact.   

Panelists: 

Erica Moseley is a speaker, author and advocate dedicated to addressing homelessness, workforce development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). After experiencing 18 years of homelessness, she transformed her lived experience into a mission for change. As the founder of EricaRe, she uplifts underrepresented communities, including youth, BIPOC individuals, and those experiencing housing instability. Erica’s book, Trapped in the Homeless Hustle, serves as a crucial resource in understanding systemic barriers. She has spoken at Capitol Hill Day, Uber, Glide, and the National Alliance to End Homelessness, advocating for policy change and real solutions.   

Dr. Wilhelmena "Dr. Mena" Sims is a lifelong educator and advocate, holding a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and master’s degrees in Library Science and Educational Technology. As a former Director of Accountability for the Oakland Unified School District, she has dedicated her career to equity in education and community empowerment. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and has received awards for her extensive community work.   

Marc Asnis is an Urban Designer at Perkins&Will , specializing in creating inclusive, resilient urban communities. He partners with cities, public agencies and developers to implement long-term strategies that promote housing stability, climate adaptation and equitable city planning. His work has been recognized by organizations such as the American Planning Association (APA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

Pearci Bastiany III is a community leader and advocate, with deep experience in nonprofit work, voter mobilization and public service. A graduate of the University of San Francisco, he was a leader in student organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and ASUSF Senate. He has worked in emergency homeless shelters in San Francisco and East Oakland and ran for San Francisco Board of Supervisors District 6 in 2022. Currently, he is pursuing a dual MPA degree from the University of San Francisco and the University of Southern California.