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Amanda Garcia, Executive Director, Casa ALBA Melanie Hispanic Resource Center
Looking back, what personal experiences or milestones have had the greatest influence on your professional success?
My journey has been shaped by my parents’ sacrifices and the responsibility I felt as a first-generation Latina to bridge two worlds. Translating documents for my family as a child, advocating for immigrant rights as a young adult, and stepping into leadership roles in the nonprofit sector-all of these moments reinforced my purpose. One major milestone was realizing that my lived experience wasn’t just a personal story; it was an asset that gave me a unique voice in rooms where change happens.
What has been the most rewarding part of your professional journey so far?
Seeing the tangible impact of my work-helping families navigate systems, empowering young leaders, and creating programs that truly serve my community has been the most rewarding. It’s not about titles or recognition; it’s about knowing that what I do improves lives and strengthens my community.
Can you share one of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
First, I would say being one of the few Latina executive directors in the state can feel isolating at times and, as I have done many times before, I’ve had to learn as I go. Second, I would say avoiding burnout and prioritizing my own well-being has been a challenge, and I cannot preach that others take care of their needs if I cannot lead by example. I’ve learned to set boundaries, trust my team, and remind myself that this work is a collective effort and requires more than just leaders like me to make a difference.
What advice would you give to others looking to make a difference in their communities?
Start where you are. You don’t need a title or position to create change, just a commitment to act. Find like-minded people, educate yourself on the issues, and take action, even in small ways. Every effort counts.
What legacy do you hope to leave, both in your career and in your community?
I often share that the work I am doing now is for the upcoming generations, my hope is that I can help open doors and create pathways for others to succeed long after I leave my role or my industry. The Latino leaders that came before me allowed me to be in my role today.
