Filling the Gaps: A Conversation with Joyce Faraj-Ardura, PhD, RDN

At Diversify Dietetics, we’re passionate about sharing the stories of Black and Brown nutrition professionals and celebrating the power of community to shape the future of our field. Recently, we connected with Dr. Joyce Faraj-Ardura, a registered dietitian whose work is grounded in advancing nutrition education, fostering collaboration through mentorship and supervision, and practicing cultural humility in action through motivational interviewing (MI).

When asked why she does what she does, Dr. Faraj-Ardura reflected thoughtfully, 

“I’m very passionate about being able to reach as many dietitians that might need this type of support. And I’m passionate because I needed this years ago, and I couldn’t find anything like it. I was stuck with books, which, don’t get me wrong, I love books, but you’re not gonna learn to play an instrument by reading a book on how to play an instrument.”

This sense of purpose carries through every professional space she enters, particularly those shared with other dietitians of color. As she put it,

“I know what it’s like to be in a culture that’s not your main culture. And I know what it’s like to feel like an outsider, and I think those are some of the things that sometimes unite us. I love being able to support other dietitians, especially those who can see a bit of their journey reflected in mine.”

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Faraj-Ardura shared the advice she would give her younger self—a reminder that has clearly guided her path.

"To not make my profession my identity. I think our identity goes way beyond our profession. It has to be tied to our goals, definitely. But just as things can shift. We do not need to change our identity, necessarily, because our jobs change. It has to be tied to, like, a greater goal, and, you know, really anchored in our values.

Looking ahead, she described her future as one that blends leadership, advocacy, and mentorship in meaningful ways.

 “I’m able to impact individuals at the one-on-one level, but also have a greater impact on the profession as a whole. And I think I’m able to do that, or have the potential to do that, with the Nutrition Counseling Academy.”

When we asked how she would reimagine the field of nutrition and dietetics, her response was visionary, emphasizing inclusivity, representation, and cultural humility:

“I would love to see the idea of ongoing supervision as being the norm — without having to pay an arm and a leg, to be honest. I would love to see more collaboration and less competition. I’m all about collaborating… I think the idea of giving, and being able to collaborate, needs to happen more often in our profession.”

Her insights are informed by her experiences with professional programs designed to support growth and connection.

“The one that sticks out is the mentorship program. I loved doing that because we got the one-on-one… I found a mentor that I clicked with, who took me under her wing and said, ‘I want to support you all the way.’ I understand I got very lucky — not many people have that. So if I’m able to give back and be that person for someone else, I would love that opportunity.”

Beyond her mentorship and advocacy work, Dr. Faraj-Ardura is also making waves through her Nutrition Counseling Academy, where she equips future dietitians with the skills to confidently navigate client sessions, build inclusive practice, and thrive in their careers.

Stories like Dr. Faraj-Ardura’s remind us why representation, mentorship, and community matter. At Diversify Dietetics, we are committed to filling the gaps—connecting professionals, amplifying voices, and shaping a nutrition and dietetics field that reflects and serves everyone.

💛 Support the Movement: Help us continue this work by donating to Diversify Dietetics. Your contribution allows us to expand mentorship programs, provide scholarships, and create inclusive spaces for Black and Brown dietitians. Every gift makes a difference. Donate Here

🌟 Learn More About Dr. Faraj-Ardura’s Nutrition Counseling Academy: Explore her programs and guidance for aspiring dietitians at Nutrition Counseling Academy Link.