A few changemakers we’ve heard from ahead of Upswell have highlighted some of their favorite things about the physical space they work in. Rebecca Lechner’s space might be our runaway favorite, because she and her Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance team work in the space where Janet Jackson made her fourth studio record in 1989! Changemaker trivia aside, Rebecca is passionate about telling the stories of women and families affected by ovarian cancer. Learn a little about this advocate and storyteller who will be joining us in LA this week from South Minneapolis.

Q: Who are you, what drives you, what are you working on, and why are you inspired to make the world a better place?

RL: My name is Rebecca Lechner and I’m the communications manager for the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA). As a former journalist, I think of myself as a storyteller and love to share the stories of the women and families we serve to educate others and further our reach. I am driven to make a difference for women with ovarian cancer – especially raising awareness about the disease and raising funds for ovarian cancer research. My passion is both professional and personal; I lost my mom to ovarian cancer nine years ago.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about the physical space you work in?

RL: At MOCA we have a solid sense of community and an amazing group of professionals and volunteers dedicated to the cause. We collaborate often and work as a team with a common goal. Oh, and it’s pretty cool that our office in South Minneapolis was once Jimmy Jam’s studio. Janet Jackson recorded Rhythm Nation here!

Q: What’s the last issue you personally advocated for – and why?

RL: Each year, I go to Washington, DC as part of Ovarian Cancer Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. It is a thrilling feeling to be there, connecting with our representatives and asking for vital funding that will make a difference in women’s lives.

Q: What excites you most about Upswell?

RL: I am so excited to get new ideas and network with others in the nonprofit and business community. I am so excited to bring new ideas from Upswell back to Minnesota!