Today we’d like to introduce you to Temina Chebelyon-Dalizu.
Hi Temina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has always centered on service, problem-solving, and helping people build strong foundations for their lives. As an American born to Kenyan parents, growing up in both Kenya and the United States profoundly shaped my worldview. This cross-cultural upbringing instilled in me a deep desire to serve and a unique perspective on the power of community support systems.
I began my career as a Registered Dietitian, working with vulnerable populations, including formative years supporting children and families at Head Start of Greater Dallas, before stepping into executive leadership. Today, I serve as a Director of Food and Nutrition Services for two hospitals in North Texas, where I manage complex operations to ensure high-quality care for thousands of patients.
Beyond the hospital walls, I am deeply rooted in community leadership. I am a proud graduate of Leadership Denton Class of 40 through the Denton Chamber of Commerce, an experience that further fueled my commitment to local civic engagement. My board service at Shiloh Fields Community Garden, recognized as the largest community garden in the nation, allows me to tackle food access and sustainability head-on. Additionally, as a certified lactation counselor and preceptor for dietetic interns, I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals and supporting families during their most critical stages.
Recognizing that stability requires more than just physical health, I have expanded my mission to include financial education and life consultancy. This holistic approach allows me to help families solve problems physically, emotionally, and financially. Currently, I am completing my Executive MBA at the University of Texas at Arlington to further strengthen my ability to lead community-centered initiatives.
Looking ahead, my ultimate goal is to translate these years of boots-on-the-ground experience into systemic change by running for public office. I am dedicated to becoming a champion for families and a leading voice for nutrition policy, ensuring that the health and stability of our community are protected at the highest levels. Driven by my faith and my desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus, my mission remains constant: helping people move from survival to stability, and from stability to purpose.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has come with its share of challenges. I’ve experienced failed business attempts, seasons where ideas didn’t take root as expected, and moments where criticism or misunderstanding from others tested my resolve. Navigating family challenges while carrying leadership and community responsibilities also required significant emotional and mental endurance.
There were times when the road felt lonely, especially as my vision outpaced my current circumstances. Having a strong sense of purpose can be isolating, particularly when others don’t yet see what you’re working toward. Those moments forced me to slow down, reflect, and grow. Not just professionally, but personally and spiritually.
Each challenge sharpened my resilience and strengthened my leadership. I learned to adapt, to rebuild, and to stay anchored in my values even when outcomes were uncertain. Most importantly, these experiences deepened my reliance on Jesus, who has been my source of strength, clarity, and perseverance through every season.
Looking back, the struggles weren’t detours; they were formative. They prepared me to lead with greater empathy, compassion, discernment, wisdom, and courage, and to continue moving forward with faith and purpose.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work sits at the intersection of healthcare leadership, community service, and problem-solving. I’m known for taking a holistic approach, looking beyond surface issues to address the physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial factors that shape a person’s life. Whether I’m mentoring future dietitians, supporting mothers as a certified lactation counselor, serving on the board of the largest community garden in DFW, or working with families one-on-one, my focus is always on sustainable impact, not quick fixes.
What I’m most proud of is the trust people place in me during pivotal moments of their lives. What sets me apart is my ability to bridge strategy with compassion, combining executive-level leadership, community advocacy, and faith-grounded service to help people move from uncertainty to stability and purpose.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is spending time on my grandparents’ tea plantation in Kenya with my brother and cousins. We would run through the tea trees, pick fruit straight from the trees, and spend long days under the warm sun. Everything was shared: work, meals, laughter, and responsibility.
Those moments shaped me more than I realized at the time. Being on the farm gave me a deep appreciation for food, where it comes from, and the power of community. It planted the early seeds of my passion for food and nutrition and reinforced my desire to serve others because in our home, we did everything together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shilohfield.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsofshilohgarden/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofshilohgarden
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/temina-chebelyon-dalizu/
Image Credits
Dagmawi Geremew
Denton Chamber of Commerce
