Michelle Cuevas Stubblefield | YWCA Women of Excellence
TK: What inspires you?
MICHELLE: My family... knowing my families history and the journey each member has taken to overcome and succeed is inspiring and strengthens me to give back to my community and empower others to find their way through life.
TK: What have you learned about yourself through the challenges of the past year and a half?
MICHELLE: For me finding balance is a daily challenge. I love being involved to create changes and help to improve the community, but I also have learned I have to take care of myself. The world deserves the best you have to offer and sometimes that means taking time to refresh, recharge and check-in with yourself.
TK: How do you take care of yourself?
MICHELLE: I take the time to notice my breathing to destress and simply slowdown. I listen to music, eat healthier and spend time alone enjoying my own company.
TK: What is the best advice you've ever been given? Or what advice do you have for others?
MICHELLE: The advice I have for others, is when someone speaks, do not let their words fall on the floor in silence, pick them up and help advance their influence... especially for a young employee or women speaking in a board room. Help build up their leadership ability so they do not become silent and they realize their ideas are worthy of consideration.
TK: What is your vision for our community? Has it changed through the pandemic and racial justice reckoning of 2020?
MICHELLE: Through challenges of the pandemic and racial justice issues of 2020, the world has become very polarizing. My vision for this community is to be willing to have difficult discussions exhibiting empathy, and curiosity that result in a greater understanding of perspectives and inclusive equitable solutions.
TK: The mission of YWCA is to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. What does YWCA's mission mean to you?
MICHELLE: Women, championing one another to overcome, lead, and achieve in life, both personally and professionally.
The YWCA is on a mission to empower women at all stages in their careers. Diversity in leadership is particularly vital to our vibrant business community in the Greater Topeka Area.
