Today we’d like to introduce you to Zayra Navarrete
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
“Unless Someone Like you Cares a Whole Awful Lot, Nothing is Going to get Better. It’s Not.” –
Dr. Seuss.
To create a better world, it is necessary to dare to be brave enough to change it,
against any obstacle. This is why advocacy is my passion, and democracy is the vehicle
Americans have to effect change. Recently, in September 2024, I had the privilege to
experience advocacy first-hand in Washington D.C. with Nebraska Appleseed. Through my
work as a navigator at United Way, I was introduced to Nebraska Appleseed, and was afforded
the incredible opportunity to join them in advocating for positive immigration legislation at the
nation’s capital. I was in the mix for the first time, speaking directly with Senators, lobbyists,
and other legislators. The feeling of empowerment from being a part of something bigger than
myself has not left since that moment, and I aspire to continue working towards improved
legislation at the local, state, and federal levels. Through my professional and academic careers,
I have direct experience that exceeds the qualifications for the executive assistant position.
However, more importantly, I care about the vision and the mission that BISC stands for. I am
Bilingual; I speak and write fluently in both English and Spanish. I have done translation work for
United Way, the City of Hastings, and Court Appointed Special Advocates. Not only am I
Bilingual, but I am a proud first-generation immigrant, and I am the first person in my family to
graduate college. I believe that all immigrants should have equal opportunities, and I am proud
to advocate for my community
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When you are doing something as speaking your truth or your lived experience, there can always be obstacles/challenges. A big struggle along the way for me was fear. Fear of not being enough to prove my worth and what I bring to the table. Fear of not being heard and being misunderstood. Fear of public speaking and of not articulating the conversation, how I wanted. Fear of being misjudged. Fear of not receiving the same compassion as others. This struggle was my self-doubt. With fear I overcame this obstacle and did it anyway-
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently work for the Community Impact Network and a bilingual Central Navigator-
I specialize in being a Bilingual professional with a strong background in community outreach,
relationship-building, project management, and stakeholder engagement. Proven
track record in coordinating diverse populations, supporting low-income families
across several grants, and working with community partners to implement
impactful solutions. More than 5 years offering tailored support to marginalized
populations, and driving collaborative partnerships for sustainable outcomes.
Passionate about economic solutions, equity, and social justice.
What I am most proud of is my Social Justice Volunteer work, actively involved in local initiatives focused on social justice, equity,
and community development. I was able to speak in Washington, D.C, for positive immigration laws directly affecting DACA recipients. Appleseed Nebraska also invited me to advocate in the State Capitol for support of LB299, which is a bill that would grant DACA recipients the ability to use their unemployment insurance in the State of Nebraska. I think what sets me apart is that I am a go-getter, even if I doubt my capabilities, I always try to set the tone and lead for my people.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and your voice. No matter what anyone tells you, even if that’s yourself, you are worth it and what you say matters!
I wish I knew that there will always be someone out there who has the same vision as you and wants to support your cause! Let yourself be vulnerable and let people help you-
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @znavarrete
- Facebook: Zayra Navarrete
