YWCA Women of Excellence: Nikki Ramirez-Jennings

What inspires you?

What inspires me most is being able to do life with people who are nothing like me, and to be able to equip and empower others so that they can be their best self.

What advice do you have for others?

Listen and love others well, be kind, and be brave.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned on your journey?

Good leaders do not only lead, but we also know how to follow. I have learned the importance of listening not so I can formulate the perfect reply, but to listen for understanding. To love, listen, understand, and then move with purpose, so I can serve others genuinely well. Nothing I do is about me, but how to do life not for, or against but with others.

What does your vision for our community look like?

My vision for our community is to become a place where people don't have to be, but where they want to be.

What does "Equal - Powerful - Unstoppable" mean to you?

The ability to use love and logic, to be of service and be mindful of the importance of equity for our community at large. It also means using one's power and platform to empower others.