ABOUT US
Experience Gallery
Change the Rubric was birthed out of the lived experience of raising and advocating for her young black kings and the obstacles they face when entering systems, specifically the school system in 2020 out of my lived experience as a mother of Black boys, deeply aware of the inequities, biases, and systemic challenges they face in our education systems. While I had already raised an older daughter and spent years working in the social justice nonprofit sector, it wasn’t until my younger sons entered school that I truly witnessed how Black males are perceived—and the injustices they endure—within the school system.
This experience compelled me to dig deeper, seeking to understand the root causes of these disparities and take action through local youth advocacy. It ignited a journey in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and leadership development, expanding my understanding of historical and systemic oppression. This knowledge fundamentally reshaped my approach to leadership in the nonprofit and government sectors.
As a Black mother committed to raising well-informed, resilient, and empowered human beings, I became even more determined to cultivate leaders who could drive meaningful change within organizations and in the lives of the people they touch. Change the Rubric is dedicated to equipping individuals and organizations with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to challenge inequities, foster inclusivity, and create environments where all people can grow.
Asheville Black Excellence Experience Gallery
about me
Founded by Niconda Garcia, a mother, and advocate from the Western North Carolina, Change the Rubric Ltd. is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reimagine leadership and challenge systemic norms. Niconda’s approach is infused with style, fun, and flair, reflecting her belief that transformation can be both impactful and enjoyable. With over 20 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and healthcare sectors, Niconda’s journey is rooted in the lived experiences of growing up in under-resourced communities, learning how to advocating for children out of necessity, working in the criminal justice and nonprofit systems, and gaining a high level understanding of the intersections. This personal narrative fuels her commitment to individual self-concept as starting point for interpersonal synchronicity, leadership effectiveness, and collective embodiment of inclusive community.
Franklin School of Innovation
DEI Committee
1st Franklin School of Innovation, Evergreen Charter School, and Building Bridges – Equity Collaboration
Community Conversations
https://www.unitedwayabc.org/community-conversations
https://youtu.be/xPYOPSopbww (2022)
Community Design Fellows & Investment Committees
https://www.unitedwayabc.org/blog/newinvestmentdesign/question
United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County- Investment Committee
https://www.unitedwayabc.org/U4Y-community-investment-pilot
United Way Facilities Committee
Cothinkk – Membership
https://www.eastfork.com/journal/fostering-systemic-change
CoThinkk reimagines the future at 5th annual grant awards | Mountain Xpress (November 25, 2020)
bio
Niconda Garcia is a mother, actor, roller skater, consultant, and advocate for social justice with over 25 years of experience in healthcare, criminal justice, philanthropy, and capacity building. She is a native of Asheville with dedication to deconstructing systemic inequities, especially in education, where she advocates for young Black children.
She serves in leadership roles with the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, including on the Community Conversations & Investment Committees and the United for Youth Leadership Team. She is also a former Co-Chair and board member of Building Bridges of Asheville.
With a B.A. in Business Administration and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Niconda has earned multiple honors, including the Co-Thinkk grant (2019), Tzedek Social Justice Impact Award (2020), and the Asheville Black Excellence Award (2023). She has presented at the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits and is a co-facilitator of the upcoming 2025 Executive Cohort.
As the owner of Change the Rubric Ltd., Niconda partners with individuals, educators, funders, organizations, and youth to drive social change, focusing on socioeconomic equity, human rights, and leadership development
“An entire sea of water can’t sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship. Similarly, the negativity of the world can’t put you down unless you allow it to get inside you.”
― Goi Nasu
Mission
Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations to lead with authenticity, purpose, and equity. We honor the inherent gifts and complexities of each person, fostering growth that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Our culturally responsive and strengths-based approach cultivates inclusive leadership and systemic change, promoting equitable outcomes for marginalized communities.
Core values
Fun & Manifestation
We infuse joy and creativity into our work, believing that transformation is most powerful when it's engaging and aligned with our visions.
Authenticity & Inspiration
We support individuals and organizations in embracing their true selves, cultivating confidence, and leading with purpose.
Cultural Responsiveness
We honor diverse identities and experiences, integrating cultural perspectives into all aspects of our work.
Continuous Evolution & Learning
We are committed to ongoing personal and professional expansion, fostering a culture of growth and adaptability.
Services
Speaking Engagements
(Basic Package starts at $500 and up)
- Keynote Addresses: Engaging talks on topics such as inclusive leadership, self-concept, systemic change, and environmental awareness.
- Panel Discussions: Moderation and participation in discussions focusing on equity, self-concept, environmental awareness, leadership, and organizational development.
- Emcee: At Change the Rubric Ltd., we offer dynamic emcee services that infuse your events with energy, authenticity, and cultural resonance. Led by Niconda Garcia, a seasoned facilitator with over 20 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and healthcare sectors, our emcee services are designed to create memorable experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. Best of all, we bring energy & fun!!!
- Leadership & Organizational Development Trainings: Interactive sessions tailored to organizational needs, emphasizing capacity building and sustainable change.
Leadership Development
Our Leadership Development services are designed to cultivate authentic, purpose-driven leaders who can navigate complex challenges and drive systemic change.
- Self-Concept & Philosophy Integration: Guided reflection and exercises to help leaders articulate and align their personal values, beliefs, and leadership philosophy, fostering self-awareness and authenticity in their leadership approach.
- Executive Coaching: One-on-one coaching sessions for current and aspiring leaders to enhance their leadership capabilities.
- Team Coaching: Facilitated sessions for leadership teams to improve collaboration and effectiveness.
- Tailored Workshops: Customized workshops focusing on leadership fundamentals, team building, and effective communication.
Organizational Development
Our Organizational Development services are designed to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of mission-driven organizations by aligning structure, culture, and strategy.
- Lean Six Sigma Based Needs Assessment: Conducting thorough assessments to identify organizational challenges and opportunities.
- Training and Development: Designing and delivering training programs to improve employee skills and knowledge.
- Advisory on Organizational Restructuring: Providing expertise on structural changes and their impact on the organization.
- Event Coordination & Emcee Services: Support with planning, coordination, and emceeing at special events, ensuring participant engagement and excitement.
Fashion Show Events & Team Building Activities
(Basic Package starts at $1,500 and up )
In addition to personal styling, we offer engaging fashion-themed events and team-building activities designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and fun within organizations.
- Project Funway: Team-based fashion design challenge culminating in a runway show.
- Fashion Fiasco: Creative fashion design competition with a focus on teamwork and innovation.
- Corporate Project Runway: Large-scale fashion design event promoting collaboration and creativity.
- Costume Contest: Fun and engaging costume design competition for teams.
Personal Styling Services
(Basic Package starts at $50 and up to $250 for the Premium Package)
Our Personal Styling Service provides tailored fashion advice to help you look and feel your best. Whether you’re preparing for a special event, updating your wardrobe, or seeking everyday outfit inspiration, we offer personalized recommendations that align with your unique style, body type, and preferences.
Services Include:
- Personalized Outfit Recommendations: Receive curated outfit suggestions based on your preferences, body type, and occasion.
- Wardrobe Audits: Assess your current wardrobe to identify key pieces and suggest new additions.
- Shopping Assistance: Get advice on where to purchase recommended items, including links to online stores.
- Style Development: Work with our stylists to refine and develop your personal style.
