February 26, 2025 | Ricardo Wynn

Sarah Woods: we have the power to create change

Whether in the office or behind the turntables, Sarah’s mission is the same: to inspire, uplift, and create space.

Sarah Woods / DJ SDOT

"Those who don’t embrace you were never meant for you."

By day, Sarah Woods, APSW, SAC-IT, is a compassionate and dedicated licensed social worker and therapist, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with honesty, understanding, and realness.

By night, she transforms into DJ SDOT, a skilled and versatile DJ, using music to connect people across different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.

Whether in the office or behind the turntables, Sarah’s mission is the same: to inspire, uplift, and create spaces where people feel seen and valued.

Embracing identity

Sarah identifies simply as herself, her identity belongs to her alone.

As a Black LGBTQ woman, she moves through life with confidence, self-awareness, and an unshakable sense of purpose.

While she recognizes that judgment may exist, she refuses to let it define her. Instead, she shows up unapologetically herself, knowing that the right spaces will welcome her energy and presence.

Her family has been the foundation of her strength.

Growing up in a household that led with love and acceptance, she never felt the pressure to “come out.” Instead, her family embraced her for who she is, fostering an environment where individuality is celebrated.

She wishes more people had the kind of support system she does, one that sees a person for who they are, not who they choose to love.

A journey of growth

A defining moment in Sarah’s life was being expelled from Milwaukee’s John Marshall High School and transferring to Rufus King High school.

This shift changed her trajectory, fueling her motivation to pursue higher education and personal growth. Through self-reflection and stillness, she developed a profound sense of self, allowing her to navigate life with confidence and clarity.

She approaches life with a simple philosophy:

“Not every space is meant for everyone, and that’s okay.”

Rather than forcing doors open, she believes in creating her own opportunities, a mindset that has guided her success in both social work and music.

Making an impact

Inspired by her grandfather, whose home was always open to those in need, Sarah was drawn to community work and activism from an early age.

As a social worker and therapist, she prioritizes genuine human connection over textbook approaches. Her clients often praise her for being “real," a quality that allows them to feel comfortable, grow at their own pace, and embrace their true selves.

Beyond her work in mental health, Sarah has also made waves in the male-dominated DJ industry.

As DJ SDOT, she refuses to be confined to one genre or audience. She has played for Middle Eastern communities, children’s events, elders, LGBTQ spaces, Hispanic celebrations, gospel gatherings, and more.

Sarah Woods aka DJ SDOT

Her ability to blend sounds and cater to diverse crowds sets her apart, she doesn’t limit herself, and that’s what makes her stand out.

Words for the future

For Sarah, Black History Month isn’t just a month, it’s a lifelong celebration.

Her first historical figures are her own family, who were Black Panthers, embodying strength, activism, and the fight for justice. She sees her role in history not as someone in the spotlight, but as someone moving strategically in the background. Like an alpha wolf, she observes, learns, and moves when the time is right.

To young Black LGBTQ individuals, Sarah offers this advice:

“Be your authentic self. Those who love you will embrace you, and those who don’t were never meant for you. Not all doors need to be kicked open, some need to be built by you.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to see more representation and inclusivity within the Black LGBTQ community. And on a lighter note, she hopes to see better artists at PrideFest, so she can DJ for artist like Saucy Santana again.

Despite challenges, Sarah stays hopeful and motivated, understanding that life is a journey with seasons of stillness and change.

Her wisdom for future generations?

“Be like a tree, no matter if you’re cut down, you still hold value. Some seasons, you may lose your leaves, but they will always grow back. Stay focused.”

Through her work in social services and music, Sarah Woods / DJ SDOT is making history in her own way. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that if something doesn’t exist, we have the power to create it.

Sarah Woods aka DJ SDOT