9TH RALLY EDITION: OCTOBER 10 – 19, 2024

#153

Just the Tree of Us

Di had watched Rebelles prep and run each year, thinking about when the time would be right for her and her family. Mica & Di first met thru Spectrum, Toyota’s Business Partnering Group for LGBTQ+ team members and allies, and bonded over various volunteer and outreach activities within the company. When the opportunity to Rebelle together came up it was an easy flex into their storyline, especially with Mica’s enthusiastic encouragement. Together Mica & Di bring the joy and celebrate each calculation, milestone in training, and preparation.
Sponsored By:
Toyota | Research & Development

Dianne Tykoski

Switching roles

I am a blindingly optimistic mother of three curious and compassionate little girls. I love traveling and taking on life's new adventures, and hearing other's stories.

Occupation:

Senior Engineer, Toyota Motor North America R&D

Residence:

Canton, MI, USA

Favorite Quote:

'Don't ask permission to grow'

Fun Fact:

I'll stop to save any turtle crossing the road.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

I want to see more women like me out there. I want to see a mom 'up there' doing it all, working the STEM job, succeeding at life, raising a family, having fun getting her hands dirty, and driving! I have 3 young daughters, and I want them to be fearless and face the world with all the wonder and vigor they can. I want them to be able to look anywhere and see someone 'like them, up there' so they don't even think twice about trying.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Seeing joy in others. Being a part of the reason for that joy is even better.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Podcasts: Ologies, Clark Howard, Best Friend Energy Books: Pride & Prejudice, National Geographic, The Princess Bride Shows: Nightmare before Christmas, Totoro, It’s a Wonderful Life

Greatest adventure to date?

Becoming myself through all of life's challenges and adventures with my partner by my side. One of my favorite adventures was driving the gulf coast with a newborn and 2 year old in tow for several weeks!

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Micaela Rionda

Switching roles

Thriving on yes-man moments and one-upping my last adventure. In love with life.

Occupation:

Engineer, Toyota Motor North America R&D

Residence:

Ypsilanti, MI

Favorite Quote:

You belong here. - my grandfather

Fun Fact:

I am tragically, endlessly entertained by dad jokes.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Rebelle epitomizes cool! I'm so incredibly lucky to be part of it and chosen as Toyota's representative besides! I only hope that if we fail epically there will be epic laughs about it.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Those around me who challenge me to keep up with them as they soften themselves to the harshness around them and open their minds to new ways of being community builders.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Right now, Ru Paul’s Drag Race Allstars. Always, the Once and Future King. Embarrassingly, fanfiction.

Greatest adventure to date?

A road trip adventure to hike ice trails and explore frozen waterfalls in the Black Hills!

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Vehicle

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro