Meet Our Expert
Dr. Lavern Deer
Dr. Lavern Deer is a distinguished advocate, executive leader, and speaker dedicated to social justice, community empowerment, and policy reform. With a career spanning over two decades, she has made significant contributions in government, healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and human trafficking prevention.
Known for her fiery passion and inspiration, she brings her expertise and real-world impact to every stage she graces. Her voice has inspired change, shaped policies, and empowered countless individuals and organizations.
Education & Certifications
Education & Certifications
Education & Certifications
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- B.S. in Healthcare Administration
- Certified Medical Assistant
- Certified in Human Trafficking Prevention
- United Nations Certifications in Anti-Corruption & Organized Crime Prevention
Subject Expertise
Education & Certifications
Education & Certifications
- Women Empowerment
- Human Trafficking Prevention
- Advocacy
- Healthcare Administration
Her Impact
As the Founder and CEO of Female Development World Organization, Inc. (FDWO), Dr. Deer has been at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking. Her advocacy efforts have led to groundbreaking changes, including Florida becoming the first state to mandate Human Trafficking Education in Schools, impacting 3.2 million students in the 2021-2022 academic year.
Through FDWO’s initiatives:
- Approximately 800 attendees have benefitted from FDWO’s symposiums, which provide critical awareness and support to affected communities.
- The P.L.A.Y. Program has transformed the lives of over 80 youths (ages 8-17) by educating them on human trafficking risks, cybersecurity, emotional intelligence, and environmental responsibility.
- FDWO’s digital media awareness campaigns have reached over 300,000 people, equipping them with vital knowledge about human trafficking prevention.
Dr. Deer's Caribbean roots allows her to bring a spicy flavor to her presentations. She was born in Jamaica and attended school in Bahamas. As founder of the Caribbean Anti-Trafficking Committee, she has delivered presentations at two consecutive Jamaica Diaspora Biannual symposiums in Jamaica.
The Caribbean Anti-Trafficking Committee was commissioned by the Jamaica Consul General to Miami to raise awareness and strengthen prevention efforts across 13 Southeastern U.S. states and Jamaica.
Government & Community Leadership
Dr. Deer’s civic leadership extends beyond advocacy. With over 14 years in the government sector, she has served in key roles, including Chief Administrative Commissioner’s Aide and Senior Program Projects Coordinator. Notably, she played a pivotal role in bringing the West Indies Cricket Team to the U.S., generating an estimated $3.1 million in economic development for Broward County.
A former Miami Gardens Mayoral Candidate (2024), Dr. Deer continues to shape public policy and governance. She currently serves on the City of Miami Gardens District 1 General Oversight Bond Committee and holds board positions with Eve for Life, an international organization supporting young mothers affected by HIV and gender-based violence, and the United Nations Association – Broward Chapter, where she serves as Advocacy Chair.
Sports & Cultural Contributions
Dr. Deer co-founded the Jamaica High School Alumni Sporting Network Inc., an annual soccer and netball tournament that has united Caribbean nationals and supporters since 2009. The event, often called “The Reunion of a Country” by the Sun-Sentinel, has become a cultural landmark in Lauderhill, Florida.
Her vision also shaped the Reggae Girlz Awareness Campaign, which not only provided South Florida’s youth soccer players with international exposure but also played a key role in helping the Jamaica National Women’s Soccer Team qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, making history as the first Caribbean nation to do so.
@fdwo | https://fdwo.org