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About Me

As a first-generation immigrant, I moved to the United States from Southern India at the age of 9. I'm bilingual, fluent in Telugu, and I deeply value my bicultural identity. These experiences have profoundly shaped my journey into the world of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). "Prema" means "love" in Telugu, and there is an inseparable connection between love and social justice. Love, when fully embodied, becomes the driving force on the path to a more equitable and inclusive world. This is the guiding mission of Prema Embodied, as echoed by the words of bell hooks:

"The moment we choose to love, we begin to move against domination, against oppression. The moment we choose to love, we begin to move towards freedom, to act in ways that liberate ourselves and others."

Holistic Approach

At the heart of my approach is the integration of somatics and neuroscience, which allows me to center relationships and cultivate trauma-informed environments. I firmly believe that true transformation begins with understanding the interconnectedness of the mind, heart, and body. This principle distinguishes my work in EDI. ​

Professional Journey & Credentials

I’m a collaborative leader who readily understands complex systems, translates across sectors, and seeks to advance equity. I have over a decade of experience as a national and state-level consultant supporting communities with strategic initiatives in public health, early childhood, child welfare, and court systems. In my role at the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and as part of Workforce Development, I provide coaching, consultation, and training to state and local partners across Colorado to facilitate change, shift policies and practices, and cultivate a culture of care and belonging. I hold certifications as a trauma-informed coach, a Neurosequential Model trainer, and a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) and Intercultural Conflict Style (ICS) assessments. I am a graduate of the Buell Early Childhood Leadership Program from the University of Colorado, Denver. I hold a Master of Public Health from California State University, Long Beach, and a Bachelor of Public Health Policy from the University of California, Irvine.​

Personal Interests

I find joy in various interests outside of work. I'm often outdoors, exploring with my two dogs, Sunny and Rocco. As a certified yoga teacher, I find fulfillment in deepening my own practice and understanding of yoga philosophy and guiding others. Recreating my mom's recipes is a special passion of mine, allowing me to carry forward a piece of her and my South Indian culture through food. I also love to travel and explore new places.

A woman seated on a tree stump by a lakeshore holds a small dog on her lap, both smiling towards the camera. Another dog stands on a nearby stump, looking off to the side. The lake is a deep blue with gentle ripples, and a mountain range looms in the distance under a clear sky. The shore is lined with rocks and green shrubs, creating a serene natural setting.
Flowers

Get in Touch
Vani Tangella
vani@premaembodied.com

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