Unpacking Sex Work and Community Engagement
To The Point Maryland Podcast: Season 1, Episode 10
This final episode of Season One of the “To the POINT Maryland” podcast examines the impact of stigma, common misconceptions, and the complex intersections of sex work. Through candid conversation we tackle how to foster meaningful engagement, and create affirming services that honor the experiences, autonomy, and resilience of sex workers.
Host
Leo Sheridan (Senior Capacity Building Manager) is a certified Community Health Worker residing in Baltimore city. He specializes in workforce development, drug user health, HIV prevention and care, and community-based public health initiatives. With a background spanning direct service and healthcare law, Leo works to strengthen the capacity of providers and community organizations serving disproportionately impacted populations. Leo has traveled throughout Maryland training CHWs through the TEACH program, certified outreach workers for HIV testing protocols through ALIVE Maryland, and has spoken and facilitated discussions surrounding rural healthcare access and polysubstance use.
Guest
Kaniya Walker serves as the Lead Community Engagement Coordinator at Heart to Hand, Inc., one of the only Black-led HIV organizations in Prince George’s County, Vice President of FLUX DC, and Executive Director of Auntie’s Home. Through her leadership, she advances culturally responsive HIV prevention and community engagement initiatives while connecting individuals to essential services and support. Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Health Services Management at the University of Maryland Global Campus, Kaniya has been recognized nationally by the Washington Blade, Insider, WUSA9, and the #CancelHIV campaign. A passionate advocate rooted in lived experience, she is also known for organizing impactful community events, including Trans Day of Visibility and Trans Day of Remembrance, creating spaces that foster visibility, empowerment, and lasting community connection.
Related Resources
Sunny Side: Joy and Humor in Outreach, Continued
Season 1, Episode 9 — This episode continues our exploration of the moments that make outreach work meaningful, memorable, and fun. Join us as we share stories that highlight the power of connection, the importance of workplace joy, and the ways laughter can sustain us through even the most challenging days.
Mountains and Margins: Healthcare Access in Western Maryland
Season 1, Episode 1 — This inaugural episode of the “to the POINT Maryland” podcast examines how geography shapes access to care. We are joined by outreach workers from Western Maryland, and together we review some of the issues including transportation barriers, workforce shortages, and informal support networks. What makes outreach here different? How does lived experience come into play to support the community? Tune in to find out!