In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, creating a culture of continuous learning and growth is more crucial than ever. Few people understand this better than Sonya Ponds, an HR Specialist in Learning and Development at the US Agency for Global Media, who’s known for her passion for fostering a positive learning culture. Sonya’s journey, dedication to professional growth, and commitment to organizational development make her a valuable asset to the team.

Journey to Learning and Development

Sonya first encountered TOC through a colleague on her team. Sonya provides Learning Management System (LMS) support to her team. Inquiring with friends about the organization, she attended TOC for the first time last year at the Conference and was instantly drawn to the possibilities it presented for professional growth and innovative learning. TOC’s L&D Pro Academy, in particular, proved invaluable, offering new insights and skills in instructional design and learning development. Sonya is now preparing to submit for awards, inspired by the exchange of knowledge she experienced with professionals from other agencies and her newfound enthusiasm for learning and development.

Passion for Creating a Learning Culture

A key project that energizes Sonya is her work in instructional design (ID) and developing a culture where employees are eager to learn. Through her involvement with L&D Pro Academy, she’s been exploring ways to communicate the intent and accessibility of educational resources, building an environment where employees feel motivated to pursue learning opportunities. Sonya refers to herself as an “accidental instructional designer,” channeling her curiosity and ambition into designing impactful learning experiences. Her goal is to drive a hunger for information within her organization, making continuous learning a central element of the work culture. She believes that the space for learning should be intentional—designed to foster growth and inspire everyone.

Inspiring Destinations and Lifelong Learning

Travel and new experiences have also enriched Sonya’s understanding of the world. Currently, as she pursues her Ph.D., she visited the Sistine Chapel some time ago, where she was captivated not only by Michelangelo’s artwork but by the fascinating history behind it. Another source of inspiration has been South Africa, where she witnessed a profound celebration of cultural diversity, fueling her drive to champion inclusivity and diversity within her own work environment.

On Personal Connections and Traditions

Sonya’s appreciation for meaningful connections is also deeply rooted in her personal life. She cherishes the memory of her mother’s Thanksgiving meals, each dish lovingly crafted with a story and significance for each family member. This tradition embodies Sonya’s approach to her work as well: a thoughtful touch on every project, ensuring that each initiative feels personalized and meaningful to those it impacts.

Embracing Authenticity

If she could choose any fictional universe to live in, Sonya would opt for the quirky world of WKRP in Cincinnati, a show she admires for its celebration of individuality and the value it places on authenticity. It’s this very quality that makes Sonya such a relatable and inspiring leader within her organization—she encourages others to bring their full selves to their roles and appreciates the unique strengths each team member contributes.

Looking Forward

With her goals set on achieving both personal and professional milestones, Sonya’s curiosity about the future is as inspiring as her achievements. If given the chance to converse with her future self, she’d ask if the goals she set for herself had been fulfilled—a testament to her relentless pursuit of growth. Looking ahead, Sonya’s passion for creating an engaging learning environment and her drive to develop as an instructional designer point to a bright future in which her contributions continue to make a lasting impact.

Sonya Ponds exemplifies the dedication and spirit essential to a thriving, growth-oriented workplace. Her journey highlights the transformative power of lifelong learning, authenticity, and cultural awareness, all of which have the potential to inspire and uplift those around her.

Look for more spotlights on our current and new TOC Members! Be sure to say hi to Sonya at our next event!