Bay Area Women Magazine - Jessica Aguirre by Rich Borell

Summer2020

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• Over 30 years sales and marketing executive in telecom and hi-tech • Serves on the boards of two non profit senior care corporations • 4th generation Peninsula resident & has lived in Los Altos for over 30 years • Consistent top producer & member of Alain Pinel’s President Club

Serving The Communities Of Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, And Cupertino

Lynn North Respect, Service, Results, & Referrals

RESULTS: All homes have sold in an average of 9 days and all for over the asking price!

“I am personally committed to your success in selling or finding your dream home.” Lynn North direct 650.209.1562 | cell 650.703.6437 | fax 650.941.1411 lnorth@apr.com | www.LynnNorth.com

• Over 30 years sales and marketing executive in telecom and hi-tech • Serves on the boards of two non profit senior care corporations • 4th generation Peninsula resident & has lived in Los Altos for over 30 years • Top 1% nationwide & member of Compass' President's Round Table

Serving The Communities Of Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, And Cupertino

Lynn North Respect, Service, Results, & Referrals

RESULTS: All homes have sold in an average of 9 days and all for over the asking price!

“I am personally committed to your success in selling or finding your dream home.” Lynn North direct 650.209.1562 | cell 650.703.6437 | fax 650.941.1411 lnorth@compass.com | www.LynnNorth.com

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Meet Richmond District 1 Supervisor Candidate

Veronica Shinzato She Will Bring a New Voice at City Hall for a San Francisco that Works For All!

Growing up undocumented immigrant from Peru and the eldest of three siblings, Veronica had a front row seat to economic injustice from lack of access to healthcare and decent housing to barriers to employment - that far too often plagues low-income people of color. She’s been a Richmond resident for over 30 years and brings 20+ years of local and state government experience. She’s also a “Supermom” that’s use to juggling multiple responsibilities as a working single mother to a child with a pre-existing condition. Now she’s running to be your Supervisor for District 1 in San Francisco.

Q: What inspires you for this journey of public service to be a candidate for Richmond District’s next supervisor? VS: Growing up undocumented, I had a front row seat to economic injustice, which often plagues working-class people of color. As a child, I remember living in a tiny multi-generational apartment on 18th and Clement. I remember taking the bus to get to San Francisco General Hospital, debating whether or not we should seek medical help out of fear. No child should ever go through that, especially during a pandemic. I am running to build a San Francisco that works for all, the same San Francisco that gave me and my family a second chance. If a former undocumented Okinawan-Peruvian girl who worked full-time while going to college and graduate school, can one day make it to City Hall, imagine what powerful message it will send to young girls and boys across San Francisco. Q: What is the biggest problem in Richmond District you will pledge to work diligently on? VS: As a working single mother to a child with a pre-existing condition, I understand the housing insecurity experi-

3-year old Veronica (middle) with her aunts Lucy and Nancy, growing up at the Tawada Farm in Lima, Peru enced by so many Richmond families. The fact is even with a state government job and a small family restaurant, I still cannot afford to buy a home. But I know I am not alone. In fact, I am among 19,000 Richmond households that spend more than 30% of their income on housing and 73% of single parent households living below the minimum income required to live in the City. At City Hall, I will work tirelessly to make building more affordable housing easier, including reevaluating our requirements and permitting process. I will also work to boost families’ safety net, like expanding relief to small businesses and families directly impacted by COVID-19. As Supervisor, I will introduce a resolution to explore Universal Basic Income for low-income San Francisco families. The fact is a one-time $1200 stimulus payment and a $1500 childcare tax subsidy is not enough when on average, parents spend between $800 and $1200 a month on childcare. Veronica Shinzato Candidate for District 1 Supervisor, San Francisco www.veronicashinzato.com

Meet Richmond District 1 Supervisor Candidate

Veronica Shinzato She Will Bring a New Voice at City Hall for a San Francisco that Works For All!

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www. mdesi gnsar chi t ect s. com | 650. 565. 9036

She’s well known as a Leader in the Newsroom and Advocate for Women in Journalism. Meet Our Evening Anchor at NBC Bay Area News & Emmy Award Winning Journalist

Jessica Aguir re

Q: What was your first job and how did it shape or influence you? JA: My first job was in a mall, I was working at a clothing store called “The Body shop.” I was a senior in high school, got involved in a ton of clubs, and was working too. I knew I really could not complain since I saw how hard my parents worked, so it taught me how to manage my time and to multitask. My parents also told me to be the best at whatever I did, so I was quickly the best sales clerk! That really came into play when I was in college doing an internship at the Spanish Language station and the woman I was interning under quit. The new director then asked me if I could handle her job, I didn’t falter, so I said yes, and turned that internship into a full-time job. I was back to working full-time and going to school full-time. To this day, my daily schedule is super full, with charity events, stories, interviews, and board meetings. Then, I actually go to the station to do my job. Q: How did your career start as a news Anchor? JA: My career started in Miami. Way before, I was a news anchor as an intern at the local Spanish Language television affiliate for UNIVISION. I was at the University of Miami when the woman I worked under suddenly quitted, and in a “Broadcast News” (movie), they turned to me and said, “Can you do her job? You are hired “. From that moment on, I went to school during the mornings and worked as a night shift at the TV station until I graduated doing a variety of jobs from production assistant, prompter, assignment desk, and producer, and after I finished school, I became a reporter in Spanish. It was great training because it really helped me have a grasp of how the entire news operation works and what I take to get a story on the air. A year later I got a call from the CBS station in town, they asked me if I wanted to switch to English Language, and I said yes! My next jump was to weekend anchor and eventually full time, from Monday through Friday primetime anchor. I worked in Miami and Los Angeles before arriving in the Bay Area in 1998. I have always been a reporter at heart, I love being out in the field covering a story and really seeing it unfold for myself. Q: Can you share with our audience one of your most memorable events that you’ve covered? JA: I have had so many memorable experiences, some historic, some heartbreaking, some adventurous, and some silly. My kids always tease me that I can’t remember all the people and things I have done and it’s true because I am always deleting them from my memory bank to make room for more. I have covered natural disasters like Hurricane Andrew and more recently the North Bay fires, manmade disasters like the Oklahoma City bombing and “9-11 “. I have traveled to report on immigration issues in Cuba, Princess Diana in England, and the Olympics in Brazil. This is the beauty of this job; it is never ordinary, so it’s very difficult to single out one great event.

She’s well known as a Leader in the Newsroom and Advocate for Women in Journalism. Meet Our Evening Anchor at NBC Bay Area News & Emmy Award Winning Journalist

Jessica Aguir re

Q: What was your first job and how did it shape or influence you? JA: My first job was in a mall, I was working at a clothing store called “The Body shop.” I was a senior in high school, got involved in a ton of clubs, and was working too. I knew I really could not complain since I saw how hard my parents worked, so it taught me how to manage my time and to multitask. My parents also told me to be the best at whatever I did, so I was quickly the best sales clerk! That really came into play when I was in college doing an internship at the Spanish Language station and the woman I was interning under quit. The news director then asked me if I could handle her job and I didn’t falter, I said yes, and turned that internship into a full-time job. I was back to working full-time and going to school full-time. To this day, my daily schedule is super full, with charity events, stories, interviews, and board meetings. Then, I actually go to the station to do my job. Q: How did your career start as a news Anchor? JA: My career started in Miami. Way before I was a news anchor, I was as an intern at the local Spanish Language television affiliate for UNIVISION. I was at the University of Miami when the woman I worked under suddenly quit, and in a “Broadcast News” (movie), they turned to me and said, “Can you do her job? You are hired “. From that moment on, I went to school during the mornings and worked as a night shift at the TV station until I graduated doing a variety of jobs from production assistant, prompter, assignment desk, and producer, and after I finished school, I became a reporter in Spanish. It was great training because it really helped me have a grasp of how the entire news operation works and what I take to get a story on the air. A year later I got a call from the CBS station in town, they asked me if I wanted to switch to English Language, and I said yes! My next jump was to weekend anchor and eventually full time, from Monday through Friday primetime anchor. I worked in Miami and Los Angeles before arriving in the Bay Area in 1998. I have always been a reporter at heart, I love being out in the field covering a story and really seeing it unfold for myself. Q: Can you share with our audience one of your most memorable events that you’ve covered? JA: I have had so many memorable experiences, some historic, some heartbreaking, some adventurous, and some silly. My kids always tease me that I can’t remember all the people and things I have done and it’s true because I am always deleting them from my memory bank to make room for more. I have covered natural disasters like Hurricane Andrew and more recently the North Bay fires, manmade disasters like the Oklahoma City bombing and “9-11 “. I have traveled to report on immigration issues in Cuba, Princess Diana in England, and the Olympics in Brazil. This is the beauty of this job; it is never ordinary, so it’s very difficult to single out one great event.

Jessica with Gloria Steinem

I have had the opportunity to interview Presidents, movie stars, and even the Pope. However, for me as a reporter, the most satisfying stories are often about ordinary people doing extraordinary things —these kinds of interviews stick with you and make you reflect as a person. Q: for most of us, it’s very difficult to discuss events like 9/11 or Natural Disasters … for those seeking a career in broadcast, can you offer advice on how you dealt with these events emotionally and still be a calm voice to your viewers? JA: I have covered almost every natural disaster including earthquakes, hurricanes, and manmade disasters like 9-11 or the bombing of the Murrah in the Federal Building. It is daunting to see the pain and fear that people feel when something that horrible touches their lives. It is hard not to let it overwhelm you when you see so much loss and cruelty. The important part is not to let the barrage of tragedy ever take away your ability to feel. I have over decades learned to use my empathy to be a better journalist, to share other people’s heartache with respect and dignity, and to highlight the human resolve and spirit of optimism. I see it so much… when tragedy strikes, we rise to be better. I also know that it is on my shoulders to be that calm voice of information and reassurance that people desire when there is such breaking news. It is in those moments like the “Wine Country “firestorm that we must individually and as a profession bring our best selves and put our own fears, our own worries aside, and do what is best for the viewers looking to us for answers. It’s a strange profession when you have to leave your family and hope they are ok because you have a responsibility to care and inform others, but that is what we do

Jessica Covering Wine Country Fires

without even thinking twice. Q: What’s the toughest part of your job? JA: From a personal perspective, it’s the very nature of the job that requires that “it” be first in your life. I have missed many birthdays, holidays, vacations, and back to school nights. When there is breaking news, you have to go without hesitation because your commitment has to be to the community, often before your own family. In many ways, it is like a first responder. When things go bad and everyone is running home to take care of their loved ones, the firefighters, police, and reporters are the ones running toward the mayhem. On a professional level, all that “mayhem” takes a toll on your psyche. I am the most prepared person at every event because I always think something could go wrong. I see potential danger everywhere! When I was the class mom at my girl’s schools, I would book the field trip busses, and everyone knew I would inspect them before anyone got on. I am a worrier and all my fears are on a grand news scale! Q: What is the key to success when communicating with the public? JA: Being yourself, being honest and allowing them to see who you really are. Q: Do you have any advice you can share for those women who may want to pursue a career in Broadcast Journalism? JA: I talk to women studying broadcast journalism all the time and I always say the same thing: start in the trenches. You need to know how to do everyone’s job in the newsroom, so you are self-sufficient as an anchor and reporter. If you are looking to be on TV because you think it’s glamorous, you will be disappointed.

Jessica at the Olympics in Rio

Jessica as Club Reporter in Miami

You are not reading the news; you are living the news. I also always tell young women coming up not to be afraid, to be direct, to take chances, or to ask for what they want.

I see the way she carries herself while she works so hard at a job that many would consider to be unskilled, and I think to myself, I hope I can one day live up to her.

Q: What’s the greatest fear you’ve had to overcome to get where you are today? JA: I am still combating it: that I am not doing enough, accomplishing enough, or giving enough.

Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? JA: I think a lot has changed since I started in TV in the 90’s. At that point, I was one of handful of minority reporters in the newsroom and the men ran virtually all the stations. Today, newsrooms reflect the communities in which we live. At KNTV the main anchors are Hispanic, Indian and Chinese and African American, I could not have imagined that level of diversity 30 years ago. Even more significant a woman runs our network division, my general manager is a woman, and my news director is a woman. But I would be naïve if I didn’t admit that we still face some of the same issues we did decades ago, as do most women in workforce, dealing with kids, family, and having our voices heard.

Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments in your career? JA: There is no single moment, it is a tapestry of moments woven together where you feel satisfied and proud that you made a difference, that you helped someone, and that you changed a life. What I often most remember are the hugs, the thank you notes, and the photos people send me years after I have done a story, updating me on how they are doing and reminding me that all the lost personal moments were well worth it. Q: What’s the one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? JA: You get a new chance every day to do right. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? JA: I see inspiring women on a daily basis, Moms who fight to get their kids’ medical care, Women fighting to get a seat at the table in corporate boardrooms, or Women battling to lead, I see it every day in my co-workers who are unafraid to run toward a dangerous story. I see it at night when the elderly woman who cleans our studio comes by my desk. She does her job with such dignity and diligence to help pay for her daughters’ college.

Q: What do you like the most about living in the Bay Area? JA: I love the diversity of the Bay Area from the people to the landscape to the opportunities that are available. You forget how beautiful it is here and how much there is to do until you have out of town guests. You have a very sophisticated social scene in San Francisco and a wonderfully creative vibe in Oakland. The peninsula is innovative and the East Bay where I live still has a small-town feel. Go to the North Bay, it is breathtaking and healing. My only complaint is the ever-increasing costs to live here, which I fear will eventually force my own daughters who were both born here to move away.

Jessica with Gloria Steinem

Jessica Covering Wine Country Fires

Jessica at the Olympics in Rio

Jessica as Club Reporter in Miami

You are not reading the news; you are living the news. I also always tell young women coming up not to be afraid, to be direct, to take chances, or to ask for what they want.

I see the way she carries herself while she works so hard at a job that many would consider to be unskilled, and I think to myself, I hope I can one day live up to her.

Q: What’s the greatest fear you’ve had to overcome to get where you are today? JA: I am still combating it: that I am not doing enough, accomplishing enough, or giving enough.

WE DESIGN HAPPINESS www.staceylapukinteriors.com (415) 493-6469

a difficult time to start businesses. There have been ups and downs and we have learned a lot. I enjoy working with my husband, Mike on all of our businesses. We have a great team around us, and we have narrowed our focus to the foundation, the ANNIKA Collection of clothing with Cutter & Buck, and golf course design.

Annika and her family having fun at a photo shoot.

Having Been Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame as One of the Greatest Winners in LPGA History, Our Exclusive Interview with Golf Legend, Annika Sorenstam Q: You started playing Golf at a young age, what inspired you to pursue it professionally? AS: As a kid, I loved all sports. I played soccer, badminton, did downhill skiing and my first love was tennis. I didn’t start playing golf until the age of 12 and was introduced to it because my parents played a lot. My sister, Charlotta and I would ride my parents’ pull carts like a horse and get ice cream at the turn. I didn’t take it seriously until the age of 16. That’s when I focused on golf, rather than tennis. Fellow Swede, Liselotte Neumann won the US Women’s Open in 1988 and that really inspired me. If she could do it from our small country, why couldn’t I? I continued to work hard and went to the University of Arizona on a golf scholarship and after two years there I decided

it was time to turn professional and give it a shot. Q: For those in our audience not familiar with the Annika Foundation, tell us what kind of opportunities it provides for young women. AS: We started the ANNIKA Foundation in 2007 to provide golf opportunities at the junior, collegiate and professional levels while teaching young people the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition. It has partnered with key organizations to promote healthy, active lifestyles for children. Some initiatives are SPARK, the Florida Hospital for Children in support of its Healthy 100 Kids initiative and The First Tee in development of the Nine Healthy Habits curriculum for children.

The Foundation annually conducts six major golf events for aspiring junior girls. They are the award-winning AJGA tournament, the ANNIKA Invitational presented by Rolex at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla.; the ANNIKA Invitational at Mission Hills, the first all-girls junior tournament in China; the ANNIKA Invitational in Europe; and the ANNIKA Cup, a team event for the top juniors in Sweden. In partnership with The R&A, the Women’s Amateur Latin America, and the ANNIKA Invitational Australasia at the famed Royal Wellington Golf Club in Wellington, New Zealand. With the support of Stifel, the Haskins Commission and Golfweek, the Foundation created the ANNIKA Award Presented By Stifel in 2014. It is given annually to the best collegiate female golfer. In concert with the award, the Foundation launched the ANNIKA Intercollegiate Presented By 3M, a college tournament featuring 12 of the top Division I schools. This tournament takes place at Royal Golf Club and has had the strongest field in all of college golf since its inception. Q: Have any of your alumnae gone on to pursue a professional career in Golf ? AS: Each year we have over 600 girls from over 50 different countries compete in our global events. We have had over 60 of our alumnae play on the LPGA Tour, and over 150 on the Symetra Tour. Q: You’ve accomplished so much as a Professional Golfer, Businesswoman, and mentor to many young women. Has it been a smooth road? AS: I think the lessons I have learned from golf certainly apply to life. It teaches you integrity, how to overcome adversity, how to make goals and accomplish them. There are a lot of correlations. Each day brings you new challenges. Some days you get good breaks and some days bad ones. I stepped away in 2008, which in hindsight was

Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? AS: My dad taught me when I was a young girl that there are no shortcuts to success. It was raining and I didn’t feel like practicing, so I called my Dad to pick me up. As we drove out of the course, we passed the driving range, and there were still kids hitting balls in the rain. My dad turned to me and said that to me. I will never forget that, and it still drives me to this day. Q: Can you tell us one of your most memorable moments in your career? AS: I have been fortunate to have a lot of very memorable events of which I’m proud. I would say shooting a 59 in 2001, playing against the men on the PGA TOUR in 2003 at Colonial, and being inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace? AS: I would tell young ladies in the workforce to find their passion. Life is too short to do something you don’t love. Work hard and put in the time. Again, there are no shortcuts to success. Surround yourselves with good people and network as much as possible. Q: What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your resume alone? AS: I am a normal Mom and wife. I love to hang with our family and kids. I cook probably six nights a week and love it. I enjoy housework and chores and am constantly busy.

Annika and players at the gala dinner to kick off the ANNIKA Invitational USA presented by Rolex hosted at the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Annika and her family having fun at a photo shoot.

Annika and players at the gala dinner to kick off the ANNIKA Invitational USA presented by Rolex hosted at the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Meaningful Remedies “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain” We do not always know what life will throw at us. Whether it is managing daily tasks at home or at work, taking on just that “one more thing or experiencing an unexpected life event that we were not initially prepared for. These experiences may lead to feelings of confusion, sadness, loneliness, anxiousness, irri-tability, stress, exhaustion, or more. Over time, we can lose our emotional and physical reserves that we generally have to manage these tasks. We may even forget or overlook our own limits, needs, wants, goals, desires, and dreams. Life can be unpredictable and unmanageable at times, and we may not know all of the answers that come along with itWe often look for understanding, meaning, or strength through it all, but we may not know where to find it.

Michelle Medeiros Ph.D. (650) 830-8334 | www.michellemedeirosphd.com

Therapy can be a safe and non-judgmental environment to explore these experiences, find meaning through them, examine how we respond to them, and gain guidance on how to navigate them. The goal for therapy is to develop an individualized treatment plan that provides you with the opportunity to eYplore your experiences, gain new insights, identify your needs, wants, and goals, build on your unique strengths, obtain a clearer sense of direction with confidence, and restore a sense of harmony and balance. I commend you on your courage, strength, and willingness to explore these experiences to find meaning and answers. I am committed to working in a collaborative approach by carefully listening, helping you find the solutions you have been looking for, and starting this journey with you. Finding the right therapist or psychologist takes time. Please contact me at (650) 830-8334, if you have any questions. My office is located in Palo Alto, CA and is accessible to many locations in the San Francisco, Bay Area. I also offer audio and video telemental health for individuals anywhere in California. I accept Lyra Health and Modern Health benefits.

Michelle Medeiros Ph.D. (650) 830-8334 | www.michellemedeirosphd.com

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Female Ground Breakers in Professional Sports

Michele Roberts: National Basketball Association

Michele Roberts was ranked Numero Uno by a panel of sports insiders for the top spot on a list of “The 25 Most Powerful Women in Sports,” and for good reason. As the current executive director of the NBA Players Association, Roberts represents the interests of over 300 of the best basketball players in the world. Michele is the first woman to ever hold the position and is first woman to head a major professional sports union in the United States. A graduate of UC Berkeley Law and former trial attorney, Roberts success is an inspiration to women everywhere.

Sarah Thomas: National Football League

NFL Down Judge Sarah Thomas has made making history a habit. In 2007 she was the first ever female official to work in a major college football game. Since then Sara was the first ever female official to work a college football bowl game, the first ever full-time female official to work in the National Football League and in January of 2019 Sarah became the first ever female official to participate in an NFL playoff game. Aside from making football history, Sarah lettered five times playing high-school softball and received a basketball scholarship to the University of Mobile where she was an academic all-American.

Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird: Women’s National Basketball Association/Team USA

Legends in the making and double trouble for opposing teams, point guards Diana Taurasi of the Phoenix Mercury and Sue Bird of the Seattle Storm account for a combined eight Olympic and seven FIBA World Cup gold medals and will again team up for the 2020 Olympics. Taurasi was the first WNBA player to score 8,000 points and is the league’s all-time leader in field goals. One of the highest paid female athletes in the world, at 38 years old Sue Bird is still a backcourt phenom with ball-handling skills that rival those of any basketball player, male or female, at any level. Unless one of them breaks a leg, the 2020 gold medal should be a lock for Team USA.

Alex Morgan: Women’s Professional Soccer

Women in sports have come a long way since the inception of Title IX in 1965. In an industry that had for so long been dominated by men, women have assumed their rightful place as being able to hold their own both on the field and in the front office, even obliterating the glass ceiling in some instances. Here are just a few cases in point:

Very few players can start out at the top and stay there, but Alex Morgan has made it look easy. Soccer fans will never forget Alex Morgan’s game-winning shot in overtime that beat Canada and sent the USA Women to the gold medal match vs Japan in the 2012 London Olympic Games. Since her juggernaut debut, Alex has played professionally at home and abroad, including a stint with the French Olympique Lyonnais, where she helped the team win a French Cup and UEFA title. Most recently, in July of 2019, Morgan once again help the U.S. team win the FIFA Women’s World Cup and was awarded the Silver Boot.

Serena Williams: Professional Tennis

Ranked as Number One in the world eight different times, Serena Williams has won more combined Grand Slam tennis titles then any active player, with 39 major victories. Serena is the most recent female player to hold all four of the singles Grand Slam titles at once, is only the third player in professional tennis history to do it more than once and is also the most recent player to win a championship on hard court, grass and clay in one year. With over $28 million in earnings in 2016 and again in 2017, Williams was the only woman to make Forbes’ list of the 100 highest paid athletes. At 37 years old in 2019, Williams is ranked 8th in the world and will arguably go down in history as one of the greatest female athletes of all time.

Female Ground Breakers in Professional Sports

Michele Roberts: National Basketball Association

Sarah Thomas: National Football League

Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird: Women’s National Basketball Association/Team USA

Alex Morgan: Women’s Professional Soccer

Serena Williams: Professional Tennis

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Julie Castro Abrams

is a CEO of How Women Lead, a network of women influencers and gamechangers. As a result she is also a GP in a venture fund, How Women Invest and Managing Partner for a corporate board search firm, BoardLeaders. She is admired as an advisor to many female executives and entrepreneurs. Q: After you graduated from college, where did you feel your career path would take you? JCA: I thought I was going to be a clinical social worker and was on my way to graduate school. Once there I realized that I am better at the administration side and focused on health policy and hospital administration. I only worked for 2 years in that arena. Q: What was your first job? And how did it shape or impact you? JCA: I worked at the Chicago Foundation for Women and that helped me see how I could use my skills and passion to work aligned with my values. I saw powerful women using their wealth and influence to change the world. They were big thinkers with a discipline around racial and gender justice that shaped my life. Q: You are Founder & CEO of How Women Lead. For those in our audience not familiar with your organization, can you tell us how it started and where it’s at now? JCA: How Women Lead is a network of 13,000 women leaders who come together to disrupt antiquated unequal systems to ensure women leaders are in the room where the most critical decisions are made. We champion the voices of all women and propel their leadership forward through designing and training on leadership and pathways to take action together. Women influencers find a platform for thought leadership, collaboration, resource sharing and to make an impact.

We started because I wanted to get together with other senior women leaders. They found such relief and inspiration by coming together, they asked for more and I invited them to architect programs and ultimately an organization. This is truly an organization and effort built out of the collective. As a result, we can pivot quickly, be responsive to the environment and take bold action. Today our areas of focus are on supporting women leaders in a variety of short and long term programming, to train and place women on corporate boards and to encourage and support women to invest in women founded companies including our venture capital arm we are just now launching. Q: Where do you see How Women Lead five years from now? JCA: We have had a lot of requests to expand into other regions of the world. I would love to share the “toolbox” and support others to build something like what we have here. That said, now that the world is virtual, perhaps we will have robust virtual networks around the globe. Q: If you could make one change to help women at work, what would it be? JCA: Remove bias in the promotion systems Q: What’s your advice for women in

male-dominated fields? JCA: Define your values and your leadership traits based on a measuring stick that is feminine and let others know what they will see in you and how they can best utilize your gifts. Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? JCA: Those people who look like they have it all figured out, don’t. So, move forward even if you don’t have all of the answers and let others know they can support you in filling in the blanks. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? JCA: Stacey Abrams. No relation. She is unapologetically standing in her values and sense of herself. She is smart, prepared, disciplined, and deeply rooted in justice and integrity. Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments in your career? JCA: I was hired for my first CEO role and I moved my family across the country. When I arrived, the entire board said they were resigning now that I was there, and I could handle the challenging board chair. I told them no, they hired me, and they had to stick it out until we could restructure the board. Q: What are the best practices you have employed to build a successful career?

JCA: • 80/20. Don’t let perfection be the enemy of getting it done. • Tell them what you are going to tell them, tell them and then tell them what you told them. Own the narrative. • Be responsive • Be authentic • Be clear • Ask what success looks like • Drive decision making as close to the client as possible • Be loving and clear about how someone can do a good job, whether it is a board member, a client, or a staff person.

Q: What is one word of advice you can offer to young women who want to reach your level of success? JCA: Get rid of the itty bitty shitty committee in your head. You have to keep working at it because it crops back up.

Identify the stories that no longer serve you, acknowledge that what might have been true when you were 12 served you but it is time to move forward with a new story about your value and qualities and strengths and define yourself.

Julie Castro Abrams

Traci is certified as a Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. She graduated from Santa Clara University in 2000 and was admitted to the bar in December of that year. During her tenure at Santa Clara, she was the Sr. Technical Editor of the Computer Technology Law Journal and received a Certificate of Excellence in Legal Research and Writing. After graduation, Traci was recruited by a top corporate law firm. She worked at Gray Cary (now DLA Piper) from 2000 - 2002 as a securities and corporate transactional attorney. She was involved in complicated tax issues, mergers & acquisitions, and securities filings. Although Traci was recognized as one of the best in her recruitment class, she missed the personal satisfaction she had hoped to gain as a legal advocate. In 2002, Traci moved firms and began practicing exclusively in the field of family law. After practicing in this field for almost 5 years, she founded Mello & Pickering, LLP with her colleague and close friend, Jennifer Mello. Traci loves being a family law attorney. What sets her apart from other family law attorneys is her first-hand knowledge of the issues concerning blended families. Her personal experience and the awareness of the legal challenges involved motivated Traci to continue her pursuit of family law. Traci is committed to providing excellent client service. She works hand-in-hand with

her clients, informing them of their various legal options, leaving no stone unturned, as well as doing what it takes to get them the results that they deserve. Traci has exceptionally strong negotiation skills and is known to settle entire cases in a few hours. Traci is further committed to taking an ethical approach to each unique family law situation. She practices all areas of family law, including stepparent adoptions, legal separation, mediation, annulment, divorce, alimony/spousal support, child support, child custody, child visitation, domestic violence, modification of prior orders, paternity, postnuptial agreements, prenuptial agreements, and property valuation and division. Prior to earning her J.D. from Santa Clara University, Traci received her B.A. in History with honors at San Jose State University. She is an active member of the Santa Clara County Bar Association, a member of the Family Law Executive Committee of the Santa Clara County Bar Association, and is admitted to practice law in the State of California. Traci has lectured as part of the continuing legal educational process. Traci is married and has three children. For your free 20-minute initial telephone consultation with Traci Pickering, call her at Mello & Pickering, LLP at (408) 288-7800.

African American film critics. Being accepted as a member meant a lot because we get access to the team and talent behind films that mean the most to our culture.

Wycleff Jean interview at Andrew Young Leadership Awards.

Our Exclusive Interview with Influencer

Kim Ford

Kim Ford Is A Keynote Speaker, TV Host & Media Consultant. She Has Appeared On CNN As An Entertainment Correspondent Where She Shares Her Take on What’s Relevant in Film, Television, & Celebrity News. Q: After college, where did you feel your career path would take you? KF: Honestly, I wasn’t really sure. All I knew was I wanted to live in Atlanta. I knew I’d figure it out when I got there. It took a while, but I finally figured it out. Q: What was your first job? And how did it shape or impact you? KF: My jobs after college were random and all over the place. I first worked at Macy’s in the handbag department

until I locked in a “real” job after college. After Macy’s I entered the Management Trainee program at Enterprise Car Rental. Working there taught me a lot about owning a business, sales calls, and teamwork. The hours were long and sometimes I had to wash cars in my suit. I hated it back then. Now I understand the lesson was to get the job done no matter how uncomfortable I was. That’s a skill I use today. Q: Can you share with our audience some details about your role as a CNN/Headline News entertainment contributor? KF: I appear as a guest Entertainment Contributor on CNN/HLN to give my take on what is relevant regarding film and television. Typically, when there is a special segment. Q: In March 2019 you were accepted into AAFCA (African American Film Critics Association). Can you tell us what it meant to you? KF: AAFCA isn’t an award. It’s the world’s largest organization of

Q: Tell us about Jubilee Mag, how it started and where you see it going. KF: Jubilee Mag was an online mag I started in 2007 that covered faith, culture, and style. I created it because I saw a void in the industry for positive media. I built my own website and gained access to events like the BET Awards, Essence Fest and countless press junkets affiliated with NBC, CBS, Sony, Warner Bros, and many others. In March 2020, the growth of my audience led to me to leave Jubilee Mag behind and evolve from just an online magazine. My audience wanted more of me as a personal brand instead of a magazine. As a result, I launched iamkimford.com covering entertainment, personal development, and lifestyle. Q: You must keep a hectic schedule between speaking engagements and TV commitments. How do you maintain a healthy work life balance? KF: It’s all about prioritizing. The commitments my children have come first. I schedule everything else around that. My kids are older, so that makes it a lot easier. Q: What’s the greatest fear you’ve had to overcome to get where you are today? KF: Since I didn’t study media in college, I was concerned about what I didn’t know that should know. I’m in grad school now, but for many years it was a concern in the back of my mind. It’s definitely possible to do it without grad school, but it was a personal goal of mine.

NBC press dinner for ‘This Is Us’. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? KF: It’s hard to narrow it down to one woman. There’s definitely a village of women I admire for various reasons. A few are: Oprah, for obvious reasons. Myleik Teel for her entrepreneurial journey. J Lo because she’s been timeless for decades. Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? KF: I’m actually writing a book about that right now. It’s called “It’s Never Too Late”, releasing late summer 2020. A lot of women think just because they’ve had major setbacks, it’s too late to pursue their dream life. If God called you to it, “It’s Never Too Late”. Q: What is one word of advice you can offer to young women who want to reach your level of success? KF: Do your research. Pay attention to the greats. Find your lane and dominate.

African American film critics. Being accepted as a member meant a lot because we get access to the team and talent behind films that mean the most to our culture.

Wycleff Jean interview at Andrew Young Leadership Awards.

Our Exclusive Interview with Influencer

Kim Ford

www.UrbanEastBayHomes.com 510-725-7422

Photo credit: Thomas Kuoh

Q: Can you share with us why you decided to have a career in Real Estate? ET: Taking a “road less traveled,” I came to real estate as a career-change when I realized it was already my lifestyle. I was the corporate-relocated spouse, moving my family coast-to-coast and back again, through 7 states and 15 homes. It was on the 5th re-launch of my former career – as a journalist, then a marketing-PR executive – (also the purchase of the 12th home) that I realized I knew more about making the real estate deal than most of the agents I hired. It dawned on me that having lived through so many moves – some happy, some traumatic; some profitable, some not – with kids and pets in tow, that my personal experience could be of enormous help to people. I wanted to put down roots – I saw the deep connection to the community that comes with deep market knowledge. I realized I could make a difference in people’s lives in a meaningful way.

they work with the Eileen Townsend & Team? ET: The agents who joined my team share that foremost commitment to the client’s goals, and we really work on educating and leading our clients through the process. Our team right now is all women, each with a different strength. I’m the content-focused communicator – I want to know everything and be able to explain everything involved in a transaction. Sharon is a MBA scientist – formerly in pharma sales – she’s details-driven and goes the extra mile. Janna is a born advocate; she is going to push her clients’ objectives to the finish line. Megan is a natural leader, fearless and willing to tackle any challenge. Backing us up is our team admin, Sarah, a former teacher. Together we follow systems and procedures designed to ensure nothing is overlooked, and that we have the expert resources to draw in whenever needed.

Q: What do you think are the ingredients that keep you as a top Realtor year after year? ET: It’s really one main ingredient, supported by hundreds of details: Succeeding in each real estate challenge is enormously personal for me. It is deeply fulfilling to me to get it right for my clients – I think it’s quite like the urgency I felt when I was trying to make each move right for my children. Resonating with the dreams people hold about real estate … understanding how huge the financial stake is … knowing how to solve each of the property-finance-legal-negotiation-and human dilemmas along the way … and finally, helping people create “home” in their new space … it is just important to me that it be done well. This commitment to excellence – and to caring – is a common thread among my team.

Q: How do you help buyers come to a decision? ET: By respecting that the decision is, in fact, theirs to make. My job is to understand their goals and their capabilities, then to provide them with the resources to move ahead and opportunities to do so. I see my job as to keep them “safe” along their way. I use the expression, “eyes wide open.” While it is easy to get wrapped up in the dream, and to feel pushed by the pace and competition in our market, I lay out for my buyers the facts about condition, about comparative values, about how the market is behaving … and when they make the decision that “this is the one,” I help them put their best foot forward.

Q: Can you share with our audience what Buyers & Sellers can expect when

Q: If we interviewed all your past clients… what is one common word that comes up when they describe working with you? ET: “Real.” Working with me, people sense my commitment, and know I see each

www.UrbanEastBayHomes.com 510-725-7422

Photo credit: Thomas Kuoh

Q: Can you share with our audience what Buyers & Sellers can expect when

Photo credit: Thomas Kuoh

situation as uniquely as they do. They feel my confidence which comes from completing hundreds of purchases and sales – for myself, my friends, my clients – and now with my team agents. They know that if I don’t already know something, I’ll tell them, and then I’ll go find out. They quickly learn that I’ll go outside the box to solve problems and that those years in the news business taught me how to find whatever it is they need, to comprehend even the prickliest of problems, and to be direct and goal-focused in getting it all done – on time. Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? ET: Patience and calm along this journey. There’s no point in being the drama queen, and usually no gain. Know your craft – in my case it’s the market, the many details and connecting dots of the contract, and my client’s goals. They choose the destination; I chart the savvy course. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? ET: My daughter, Tess Townsend, never ceases to amaze and impress me. Half my age, she has always had smarts and wisdom beyond her years; she is as ideals driven a person as I’ve ever met. She challenges me to remain true to myself and my strengths, and she holds me accountable. Having grown up in newsrooms across the country, she has charted her own career as a journalist, today working as deputy opinion editor of the Sacramento Bee. She has committed her free time to leading the non-profit she founded, Journalists in Classrooms (JiC), to ensure that our next generations understand the difference between the “noise” and dis-information in our media, and properly researched, factbased information … she teaches, and teaches other journalists to teach, students what to trust and what to discard as “fake.” Like her millennial generation, she seeks both to disrupt systems that no longer are working, and to form new ways to make life and our world work toward the greater good.

Covering the Greater Berkeley-Oakland market: Left to right: Janna Woods, mother of two in the Melrose Leadership Academy and La Plazita preschool in Oakland; Sharon Gill, MBA, focusing on Oakland and suburbs to the East, from Concord to Dublin; assistant Sarah Lawrence; Megan Gurrentz, a former wilderness guide living in West Berkeley; and Berkeley-based Team Lead Eileen Townsend.

Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? ET: Honestly, I have never thought in terms of challenges that limit or are unique to women. I grew up the only girl with four strong brothers, and I think I took life on with perspective just like theirs: to be and do whatever I choose, to neither respect nor accept boundaries or limits imposed by others. Q: What advice do you have for parents with daughters graduating from high school? ET: I think it is our duty to provide models

of success in the endeavors that matter to our children. Help them find mentors who can guide them and help them grow. Being a mentor and seeing success emerge among my team agents is as rewarding as “winning” in my career myself. Pass it on. Q: What do you see as the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? ET: I truly believe the sky is the limit and as long as they believe that too, it will be. Q: What advice would you give to young

women who want to succeed in the workplace? ET: Come from courage, never fear. Set a goal and work toward it. Setbacks, even failure, are part of the process. Learn from every win, and every loss, and use what you’ve learned to keep progressing. Ask for help – there is no shame in accepting help. Ask questions. There are no stupid questions; anyone who makes you feel your question is “dumb” is the problem – not you. There will be another person who will answer your question, and that is the one to follow.

Photo credit: Thomas Kuoh

What Does it Mean to be a Successful Woman in Business?

he U.S. Census Bureau in its Annual Survey of Entrepreneurs notes that women owned 20 percent of all employer firms in 2016. The number of women who are starting their own companies in the U.S. continues to grow. These women find that entrepreneurship offers a unique opportunity to use their talents, expand their influence and increase their wealth. Although starting and maintaining a successful business is not always smooth sailing, women often find the endeavor not only suits their personalities, but also their personal goals.

Creating an Enterprise That Reflects Your Own Values

you get to determine your own level of financial success. Your ability to earn is only limited by your own efforts to maxStarting a business is often an uphill imize profits. This requires doing a sigclimb that many people never even attempt. The corporate world offers many nificant amount of research and understanding important features of your area perks and financial benefits, but you of the economy. In addition, successful must always bow to the “vision” of the corporation. For some women, this effort woman entrepreneurs know that you can can be too limiting. They may be able to never rest on past laurels. They always see other aspects of the market that need keep an eye out for new opportunities to addressing, and the chance to tackle the expand their markets, increase their customer base and refine their operations. task in your own way offers personal gratification at the highest level.

The Freedom to Manage Your Own Finances Having your own business also means

Becoming an Expert in Time Management

Women have a natural aptitude for multi-tasking, and this quality can be of

significant benefit when they are running a business. Women prioritize activities to schedule work efficiently and keep the most important aspects at the forefront of their actions. Managing a workforce well is a critical part of success in business, and women often have the “people skills” needed to maintain high efficiency and productivity.

Dealing with Harassment & Discrimination

comfortable situations. In addition, you may still feel acquiring loans, getting important contracts and maintaining your competitive edge still requires you to work harder in order to be judged as equal to a male-owned company. However, as you develop a record and reputation for success, this need to “dance backwards and in high heels” tends to diminish.

Being a woman in business offers a chance to forge your own path in your own way. Unfortunately, the downside for women continues to be frequent incidents of sexual Although the obstacles can be daunting and harassment and discrimination that may oc- often reflect institutional prejudices, being a cur at both personal and institutional levels. woman also offers a variety of natural adLearning ways to skillfully deflect unwanted vantages that can help you excel in business. attention can help you manage these un-

What Does it Mean to be a Successful Woman in Business?

Creating an Enterprise That Reflects Your Own Values

The Freedom to Manage Your Own Finances Having your own business also means

Becoming an Expert in Time Management

Women have a natural aptitude for multi-tasking, and this quality can be of

Dealing with Harassment & Discrimination

www.keeleyrankin.com

Do you want to be more confident in bed? Feel sexually uninhibited & experience more pleasure in your body? Do you want to have the sex you dream about? Are you motivated & open minded with a desire to look inside yourself? Could you use guidance around where things are misaligned? I use practical & body-based sex therapy methods to help individual & couples move through physical and emotional intimacy struggles. They’re looking to make sex playful, fulfilling and invigorating — to fully let go erotically! My clients have a huge capacity for love but they can’t seem to put it all together in the intimacy category. If you’re ready to stand in your power in the bedroom, understand yourself sexually and unleash what you have always know was inside of you, I can help you get there.

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She’s Committed to Her Profession, Her Community, and Impassioned Goodwill. A Successful Woman Making a Significant Impact in our Community. Meet Action Cleaning Service President

Davlyn Spetch Q: Can you share with our audience some history about ACS and how long the company has been in business? DS: ACS originally started as a partnership with my sister Erica. I believe it was 2005. We decided to form a partnership as we were working together quite a bit. I fought to name it Action Cleaning Service. It went through a major change in 2011, which is when I first started hiring employees. My sister moved to Modesto from San Jose, and although I enjoyed working with her, there were some ideas I had for the business that she was not on board with at the time. The most important one being to expand the business, by hiring employees etc. So, in 2010, we became the sole owners of separate businesses. I was terrified to hire employees lol! So different from now, where one of the things I enjoy most, is supplying people jobs in a small business. But randomly and without knowing something like this existed, I found a great consultant/ coach for cleaning and have had two

different consultants since then, who have really helped me to move along. Quite awesome! Don’t be afraid to get help! This world is hard enough. Forget tackling it alone, if you don’t have to. At this point in my career, I have realized that the only thing that can hold me back in life is me. I have really focused on self-care in the last few years and am now ready to bring my business to a whole new level. We are definitely in a growth period. One idea that I have planned is opening more branches of my company to widen out my service areas. It’s very exciting, and will give me the challenge I need, to stay fully engaged and interested in what I am doing. After being in the cleaning business for over 22 years, it is important to me to have new goals and plant new seeds. Q: For those who maybe looking for a house cleaning service … which areas of Santa Clara County do you service? DS: San Jose, Campbell, Santa Clara, Milpitas, Sunnyvale and parts of Los Gatos and Saratoga (in town).

“After being in the cleaning business for over 22 years, it is important to me to have new goals and plant new seeds.”

Q: If we interviewed all your clients … what is “one” common word that comes up when they describe working with your cleaning service? DS: I would say dependable. We hear that in a lot of our interaction with clients. It is one of our core values as well! We are very grateful to have awesome employees and clients. Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? DS: In the end, nothing is that big of a deal. We tend to make it a big deal. And that can hold us back from changing our perspective on it. But in the real scheme of things, nothing is that big of a deal. We can get through it! 408.690.8016 www.actioncleaningsvc.com

She’s Committed to Her Profession, Her Community, and Impassioned Goodwill. A Successful Woman Making a Significant Impact in our Community. Meet Action Cleaning Service President

“After being in the cleaning business for over 22 years, it is important to me to have new goals and plant new seeds.”

They often say that the future is female, and they’re not wrong at all. Women are beginning to truly take the world by storm. They’re covering many different sectors, too. Women are starting to become bigger forces in everything from athletics to business. If you look around, you’ll probably notice that there are more small businesses owned by women than ever before. Things are changing in rapid and meaningful ways all over the United States and globe. It doesn’t look like things are going back ever again, either.

Small Businesses and

Female Owners

Women of past decades and centuries were often kept down by societal standards. They in many cases felt as though they had no option but to lead certain types of lives. It wasn’t uncommon for women to believe that they had no option but to remain at home. The situation is totally different now, however, and without a doubt for the better. Women are rapidly discovering that they have more options than ever. It doesn’t matter if a woman wants to pursue a life as a small business owner. It doesn’t matter if she wants to go after a rewarding career as a staff member for a massive corporation, either. Women are gaining major traction in all sorts of career divisions. They’re setting fantastic examples for young girls that are part of newer generations, too.

Small Businesses and

Female Owners

longer taking others telling them that they cannot accomplish certain objectives. Women are not sitting back and settling for things. They’re standing up for themselves. They’re speaking up about the things on the planet that make them feel the most passionate. It’s happening in women across many different walks of life. It’s happening in women of many different age categorizations as well.

Women and Small Businesses of All Kinds Little girls are growing up with so many positive female role models around them. It isn’t hard to come across female small business owners in this day and age. If you visit a bakery or general dining establishment in your community, there’s a strong chance that it’s owned and operated by a hard-working woman. Women are quickly learning about all of the ins and outs that are associated with keeping businesses running smoothly. They’re figuring out the fundamentals of getting their hands-on business loans of all kinds. They’re figuring out the logistics that are part of recruiting staff members. They’re figuring out how to train their team mem-

bers. These things are only the beginning. There are many women nowadays who have bosses and who appreciate their careers. There are also many women who are having serious epiphanies. They’re realizing that they can opt to be their own bosses if they wish. They’re realizing that there are choices that go beyond being part of a company’s staff. They can make pertinent choices that relate to staffing. They can make meaningful choices that relate to getting their hands-on supplies and tools. What makes things so different for women who are keen on the concept of entrepreneurship as of late? Women are no

Women are becoming more supportive of their fellow female entrepreneurs, too. It’s not atypical to see women giving their full support to other businesses that are owned and managed by female aficionados. Sisterhood is more than alive in the United States. It’s more than alive all around the planet, too. Young girls in elementary schools are learning that sisterhood is a wonderful thing. They’re starting to make it a huge priority in their existences. Women have a lot of potential. The future may revolve around women and all their possibilities. They’re making enormous waves in all sorts of fields and industries. They’re thriving in science. They’re thriving in politics. They’re thriving in many sectors that go beyond those as well. It’s going to be fascinating to see where women will go next. Small businesses that are run by women are going to become even more ubiquitous.

Buyers and Sellers immediately benefit from Cat’s instinctive abilities gained from over 18 years of practicing law. She started her journey in real estate during the housing crisis where she defended hundreds of homeowners, both investors and primary residents in foreclosure proceedings. She negotiated with lenders and worked alongside agents and tax advisers to ensure the most favorable results for her clients. You can trust that Cat will work hard to protect your interests and keep you informed and empowered during the entire process. As an attorney and broker who routinely works with high profile professional athletes and executives, you can rest assured that your privacy will always be protected. Having grown up in Lafayette and making Orinda her home, she understands the local mar-

ket and recognizes the value of owning in Lamorinda. She will help you avoid pitfalls that aren’t always identifiable and will take the stress and anxiety out of what should always be a positive experience! Cat is an alum of Santa Clara University and New York Law School and is licensed with the California and Florida State Bars. She is a board member of the San Francisco 49ers Academy in East Palo Alto and advocates for former NFL players with disability claims. “As my client, you will work with me one-on-one. Not with my team or my assistant. This is why I take on only a select number of clients at a time. I recognize when there are potential conflicts of interest and I strive for quality vs. quantity.”

I am dedicated to ensuring that I take care of all of my clients, and that their legal needs are not just met, but exceeded. I offer high-quality legal advice and personal client service. I am committed to providing you with top notch legal support and representation. I serve a wide range of clientele, and value every client relationship greatly. I approach every client with a focus on integrity, advocacy, and understanding. I will fight for you and your rights!

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Mirella is an expert who specializes in investment-grade properties, particularly apartments and mixed-use properties located throughout

Mirella Webb

Senior Investment Advisor DRE lic.: 01409540 O: 415.814.6699 M: 415.640.4133 mirella.webb@compass.com

San Francisco and the Bay Area. With 15 years of experience specializing in these properties, she clearly understands the intricacies of San Francisco’s rent controlled apartment buildings and she’s become one of the best sources for market information. Prior to joining Compass, Mirella worked at Alain Pinel RE Investment Group where her team built the strongest group of apartment brokers in San Francisco. Prior to APR, Mirella worked at Grubb & Ellis Commercial Real Estate for over 10 years where she successfully completed over $150 million in transactions and she was Rookie of the Year in 2005. Since joining APR in 2008, Mirella has become one of the top producers for the Alain Pinel Investment Group earning the coveted President’s Club Membership for the last 7 years and a totol of over $1 billion in sales volume. Mirella’s market knowledge has earned her a column in the San Francisco Apartment Magazine where she writes regularly about the most recent sales. With her many years of experience in selling investment properties, Mirella can help maximize the value of your property. She takes pride in always achieving the highest price for her clients and she has the track record to prove it.

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https://www.compass.com/agents/sf/mirella-webb/

Bay Area

WOMEN magazine

We Support Diversity and Gender Equality – An Issue Greater Than Just “Equal Pay in the Workplace”

The story behind Bay Area Women Magazine and Website has always been to empower, inspire and support women in our local communities and the workplace. We believe in diversity and gender equality, equal pay for equal work and believe that no woman should have to be in fear of harassment or assault in her community or workplace. Women have made unquestionable advances — from American boardrooms and courts of law, to political and sports arenas — but inequality remains, especially in poor or rural areas. By simply being inclusive of an equitable number of women in an organization, it has availed itself of a larger talent pool, increased its attractiveness to potential talent, increased its ability to retain talent and has brought an insightful eye to market to potential users and clients of the organization’s products or services. While outcomes of equality in the workplace should be achievable equally among genders, these outcomes may not necessarily be the same for all. Still, it’s essential to advance the trend of acceptance and advancement in gender equality to ensure that access and enjoyment of the same rewards, resources and opportunities are available to all. This includes freedom from gender discrimination and its stereotypes, pregnancy and parenting, freedom from discrimination in fields of employment where women have traditionally been excluded or discouraged and the systemic undervaluing of work traditionally performed by women. Workplaces need to provide equal opportunities and pay for equal work; there is no justifiable reason based on gender not to do so. There should never be limits to the equal participation of women in the workforce. All should have access to all positions and industries; including leadership roles regardless of gender. Women represent nearly half of the U.S. workforce and the number of women in politics is increasing rapidly. At some point in their career, one in four women has been subjected to harassment at work. Management has a responsibility to ensure they act early to both identify and stop harassment, but unfortunately, in many companies, occurrences are often ignored. If there are signs of harassment taking place within the workplace– no matter how big or small – it should be rectified immediately, and preventative processes reevaluated to avert such occurrences from happening again. Organizations have a responsibility to maintain an environment that is free of sexual harassment. Today we are asking that our communities’ most prominent workplaces and community organizations take a step to join Bay Area Women Magazine and its website to advocate for respectful, fair and dignified treatment of women. Thank You Rich Borell Founder & Publisher

Bay Area

WOMEN magazine

We Support Diversity and Gender Equality – An Issue Greater Than Just “Equal Pay in the Workplace”

Infoblox - a global leader in delivering Actionable Network Intelligence to enterprise, government, and service provider customers around the world - has launched a global initiative entitled the“Women’s Internal Network”(WIN) to increase the representation of women at the company. The purpose of WIN is to build an internal support system to attract, retain and promote women in the workplace. A global initiative of this magnitude can only be successful with active support at the highest level.

Bay Area Women Magazine caught up with the Executive Board for the WIN group … • Jesper Andersen, CEO • Sonya Andreae, Vice President of Global Customer Advocacy • Norma Lane, Executive Vice President of People & Places Read on to see what each has to say . . .

Q&A with Infoblox’s WIN Executive Team “Our primary focus is to expand the presence of women in leadership, enterprise direct sales, and engineering roles.” JESPER ANDERSEN - INFOBLOX CEO

Q: What is the purpose of Infoblox’s “Women’s Internal Network” and what need will it serve? JA: Our purpose is to build an internal support system to attract, retain and promote women in the workplace. Our primary focus is to expand the presence of women in leadership, enterprise direct sales, and engineering roles.

SONYA ANDREAE - GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT EXECUTIVE

Q: As a company, what made you stop and say … “we need to create a WIN program?” JA: We value diversity at all levels and in all job categories throughout the organization. We’re fortunate to have a diverse workforce, in general. However, we lack broad representation of Women in senior leadership and technical roles. We decided to create an internal network for women to learn together and from each other. Additionally, we want to support external efforts that inspire young women to pursue engineering and technology careers. This will help fill the pipeline with qualified candidates in the future. Collectively, we think we can make a difference. The result will be a more engaged and productive workforce, and ultimately a more successful organization. Q: What goals do you hope to achieve and what is your time frame? JA: We haven’t established a timeframe or specific quotas to achieve. Instead we’re taking direct action to achieve our goals in everything we do. From recruitment, to employee development, outreach activities and mentoring efforts. Additionally, we’re participating in a variety of community initiatives that align with our goal. Q: How will you monitor the progress of WIN? JA: We’ll measure our effectiveness in engagement levels of women employees through our mid-year and annual employee engagement survey. Additionally, we’ll measure our percent of women representation in leadership and technology positions.

JESPER ANDERSEN - INFOBLOX CEO

Q: What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership? SA: A primary concern is the lack of women entering the Engineering/technical profession resulting in fewer women available to assume leadership position in the high-tech industry. There are a variety of social and economic reasons that have resulted in an imbalance of women in leadership and technology. Many women don’t have mentors at home to help shape their career aspirations. Others were preoccupied with fulfilling traditional roles of being a mother and/or caretaker, placing their career goals on the back burner. Additionally, there are still deep-seated biases that have existed for many generations. During the last few decades I’ve seen a positive shift in this mindset. As a result, women are achieving parity in the workplace. Although we’re seeing positive change in the workplace, it will require sustainable change in institutional mindset to correct these biases over time. Male presence still dominates the boardroom and C-Suite positions.

Q: Why is tech the fastest-growing industry in the U.S. which is predicted to provide more job opportunities than all other professional sectors, still failing to attract and retain women in your opinion? SA: I wouldn’t say the high-tech industry is failing at attracting and retaining women in the workplace. Quite the opposite. I think we’re making significant progress. More than ever, employers are sponsoring mentorships for women in technology and proactively pursuing opportunities to expand their representation of women, particularly in technical positions. Additionally, there are now many Corporate-backed outreach programs designed to attract and inspire women to enter high-tech careers. STEM and Code.org come to mind as two well-funded programs sponsored by employers in the high-tech industry. However, as noted earlier, it takes time to change mindset and practice resulting from generations of gender bias. Infoblox is one of many employers who are embracing this change in mindset by promoting women leadership in the workplace and sponsoring programs aligned with our beliefs.

Q&A with Infoblox’s WIN Executive Team “Our primary focus is to expand the presence of women in leadership, enterprise direct sales, and engineering roles.” JESPER ANDERSEN - INFOBLOX CEO

SONYA ANDREAE - GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT EXECUTIVE

JESPER ANDERSEN - INFOBLOX CEO

NORMA LANE - CHRO AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE & PLACES NORMA

“We would like to see a significant increase of women represented in our management and technical positions. We are committed to creating and maintaining a work environment that reflects gender diversity, which in turn, will result in higher employee morale, superior performance, and ultimately profitability. ” NORMA LANE - EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE & PLACES

Q: Focusing on diversity in the workplace is an essential step in building a great culture. How has Infoblox responded to this challenge as a company thus far? NL: Fortunately, we’ve built a great culture and a cool work environment which focuses on collaboration, respecting others, and having fun. (“We believe that a fun, caring, collaborative, and learning work environment will stimulate creativity and innovation that results in customer satisfaction and business success,” said Jesper Andersen, CEO of Infoblox) We also maintain a diverse work environment and fully embrace diversity in all areas of the company. Our challenge is finding qualified candidates in our senior management, direct enterprise sales, and Engineering environment. We’re taking steps to sponsor programs (like Hour of Code) that promote women in technology through STEM and various professional associations (such as Watermark) who are also aligned with our purpose. This will help build a strong pipeline of female candidates for future consideration. Additionally, we’re sponsoring a variety of programs to develop and promote women currently employed at Infoblox. Q: There is currently lack of women in tech … does Infoblox have a goal of how many Women they would like to employ in the company? NL: We would like to see a significant increase of women represented in our management and technical positions. We are committed to creating and maintaining a work environment that reflects gender diversity, which in turn, will result in higher employee morale, superior performance, and ultimately profitability. Q: A diverse workplace is proven to get better results, more accurately reflects your customer/client base, and ensures a wider range of experience. Do you feel WIN project will help Infoblox meet its goals? NL: Absolutely! A diverse work environment offers diverse opinions on broad business issues. Ultimately, business decisions are well thought out and result in sustainable solutions because we’ve considered a variety of creative ideas and in-depth insight.

SONYA ANDREAE - GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT EXECUTIVE

NORMA LANE - EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE & PLACES

Q: What woman inspires you and why? NL: Personally, I relate to women who are successful because of their resilience and grit. They’ve been through their share of life experiences that may have been challenging. However, they remained focused and determined, despite the obstacles. These women were not born with a silver spoon. They didn’t come from privileged families who paved the way for their success. Instead, these women envisioned their dreams and seized opportunities to pursue them; Overcoming many speed bumps along the way. Even after achieving success they remained humble and gave back to their community so that others can also prosper. Oprah Winfrey comes to mind. My Grandma is another.

NORMA LANE - CHRO AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE & PLACES NORMA

SONYA ANDREAE - GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT EXECUTIVE

NORMA LANE - EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE & PLACES

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I sincerely enjoy my career as a real estate agent. For over 20 years I have lived and provided excellent service, as well as practical guidance, in the listing and sale of properties in the Santa Clara Valley and beyond. Whether I am negotiating to garner the best contract price for my sellers or working hard in a multiple offer scenario for my buyers, I thrive on helping my clients realize their property ownership dreams. I bring Honesty, Integrity, and Passion for the Job! If I am not with a client or working on marketing and advertising a new listing, you will find me at the gym working out, running, spending time with my two grown daughters, playing a competitive tennis match, or sipping a wonderful glass of wine with my husband at the end of the day. For many years I have supported and volunteered for local ballet and dance troupes and I am passionate about supporting Breast Cancer Awareness events and finding a cure for Lyme disease. As a prospective client, you may be assured that I will always place your interests and needs as my first priority. I take my responsibilities VERY seriously and am more than full time in your service. One extremely satisfied client of mine summarized my work ethic better than I could, “Kerry is extremely professional and has the commitment and high energy needed for top performance… Kerry’s sales efforts show preparation and creativity, along with quick and excellent results.” I bring a wealth of experience, education, tenacity, and ingenuity to each transaction. I believe my degree in psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder has provided me with the ability to keep interactions between people positive. My training as a Certified Residential Specialist and Relocation Specialist enhances my capacity to represent your interests at the highest level. I am thankful to have received numerous honors over the years from my full-service broker, Alain Pinel Realtors including: Top Producing Agent, Silver, Gold, and Platinum Circle Awards, and Rookie of the Year. APR has since joined forces with Compass Real Estate.

Raised in the Bay Area and Silicon Valley, Angelé is intimately familiar with the area, neighborhoods, schools, and lifestyle. Going on 25 years as a full-time agent, Angelé has developed her talent for selling and finding dream homes for her clients so well that she is consistently a top producer. She now works with Compass, a cutting-edge real estate company sleekly designed with the goal of helping clients find their place in the world. Being part of such an organization gives both her sellers and buyers the competitive edge needed in today’s complicated market. Markets served: Santa Clara County, parts of San Mateo County, and Santa Cruz County. Angelé has earned her SRES® Desgination as her commitment to assist Baby Boomers and the 50+ homeowners with decisions about aging in place, reverse mortgages, or senior housing options. First time homebuyers and up-sizing homeowners are specialties as well!

Making an Incredible Impact on Community Through Selfless, Dedicated Volunteer Work

Meet Lynn North,

Recognized Top Realtor & Dedicated Community Volunteer “My clients would say that I’m honest, trustworthy, experienced and committed to working with integrity. I truly care about my clients and am personally committed to their success, which shows in how I work with them and in my results.” Sunny View Award Presentation to Francis N Njuakom, Director CDVTA in Cameroon, Africa for senior housing there: Francis accepts his award of $20,000 donated by the residents and staff of Sunny View & Front Porch (left to right: Sally Plank, EVP Front Porch, Francis’ wife Rosie, Jack York (founder of iN2L and large donor to CDVTA), Lynn North, Chair of Sunny View’s Foundation, Francis N. Njuakom, Director of CDVTA in Cameroon)

Lynn North has been a realtor for the past 15 years & ranked in the top 5% with the prestigious Alain Pinel Realtors in the Bay Area. She has served as coordinator and director of programs and is currently in various leadership positions at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Los Altos, California. Previously, she was director of telecommunications business development at Network Appliance and vice president in sales with SBC and Pacific Bell, where her large team literally built the infrastructure known today as Silicon Valley.

“I believe there will continue to be a strong demand for housing with continued struggles of less inventory and pent up demand.”

After earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Behavior from University of San Francisco, Lynn’s expertise has been in helping her clients deal with change, whether it be in growing their business or with her recent board experiences, in helping families with seniors deal with the challenges of life changes. Lynn has been the Chair on the Board of Sunny View’s Foundation since 1999 & with Front Porch since 2004. Lynn has been in several key leadership roles at Immanuel Lutheran Church for 33 years. For 3 years, she took 40 youth and adults to Mexico to build homes for the poor and has been an active role in local schools and community sports programs. Lynn is a licensed real estate agent drawing on her wealth of experience helping clients and is a fourth generation Bay Area resident, who has lived in Los Altos for 33 years. She was past president of her neighborhood association. Lynn has earned the reputation among her colleagues and clients for honesty, integrity and loyalty. Lynn’s philosophy on real estate recognizes the need for a knowledgeable consultant who can produce top results. “I work continually to keep up with this ever-changing, complex market and strive to help my clients realize the greatest return on one of their largest investments.”

Sunny View’s Annual Benefit Dinner, Lynn North, Chair of the Foundation

Q: How long have you been in the Real Estate business? LN: I have been in real estate for 16 years, starting as an assistant for 2 of the top agents for a year to really get a sense of the business and develop a strong understanding of the details. Prior to changing careers, I was a vice president at Pacific Bell and SBC, where my team built the infrastructure that we now know as Silicon Valley with all of the large accounts headquartered here. Also, I ran our church (Immanuel Lutheran Church) for 5 years when our long-term pastor retired. As a youth director at our church during 4 of those years, I took 40 teens to Mexico to build homes for the poor, which was very inspiring and really rewarding in seeing how it gave the kids a broader perspective of life. Q: What designations or certifications do you hold? LN: Relocation is my current designation, where I help my clients and their families moving to this area get settled into the community. Compass has an extensive relocation program, where I have helped many of my clients buy vacation homes or

relocate to anywhere in the world through their recommendations and referrals. Q: What percentage of your clients are buyers vs. sellers? LN: The majority of my clients are sellers. While I am in the top 1% of my business, I only take one listing at a time, so I can dedicate my attention to that seller in marketing their home. The result is I usually bring in the highest offer for that neighborhood, which gives them their greatest return on their investment. I attend to all of the details, including preparing their home for the market and directly working with all of the potential buyers and their agents. For my buyers, I really focus on what they are looking for and make sure they have a great lender, which can strengthen their offer and make them as competitive with all cash offers. Also, I have a good reputation amongst my peers, so listing agents really encourage me to write an offer for their properties, which helps my buyers as well. I am thorough in researching the comparative market sales and reviewing the disclosures, so my buyers are confident in what they are buying and at the right price.

Making an Incredible Impact on Community Through Selfless, Dedicated Volunteer Work

Meet Lynn North,

“I believe there will continue to be a strong demand for housing with continued struggles of less inventory and pent up demand.”

Sunny View’s Annual Benefit Dinner, Lynn North, Chair of the Foundation

rienced and committed to working with integrity. I truly care about my clients and am personally committed to their success, which shows in how I work with them and in my results. Q: How do you compare Compass Real Estate from past companies you’ve worked for? LN: I have had the privilege to always work and be associated with strong, respected market leaders. Specifically, in real estate, I previously worked for Alain Pinel Realtors, (a privately owned Bay Area company), which was a highly respected brand in terms of integrity, professionalism, and high standards. Compass brings that same quality in a broader scope on a national scale. It is the number one largest independent brokerage in the country with a strong financial backing (over $1.5 billion in funding as a market leader), resulting in a stronger marketing brand. This gives its agents an opportunity to invest in the company and participate in equity shares for their own financial planning goals. The company’s mission is to help everyone find their place in the world. With the agents at the core of the company, Compass drives market insights and offers continuous new tools that help us differentiate ways to better serve our clients. They have incredible leadership beginning with their CEO, Robert Reffkin, who communicates regularly for input and encourages us to collaborate without ego. Q: Can you tell us about your involvement with the Sunny View’s Foundation? Sunny View resident, Sara Carter receiving the Oliver Ruud Award (left to right: Bill Penrod, Director of Sunny View’s Foundation, Lynn North, Chair of Sunny View’s Foundation & Sara Carter, resident)

Q: If you had to make one prediction of where the Silicon Valley Real Estate market will be this year … what would it be? LN: I believe there will continue to be a strong demand for housing with continued struggles of less inventory and pent up demand. Most of our buyers are looking for closer commutes. Many seniors and baby boomers are not moving because of their capital gains and the need to keep their property taxes down with Prop 13 (currently they can only transfer it to 8 counties). Frequent needs in the cycle of life are first time home buyers, young families moving up, baby boomers downsizing and selling their parents’ homes, along with people from all over the world here looking for new jobs. Our main concern is buyers being priced out of the market. We have already seen a correction in our appreciation rate to a more “normal” rate (10% per year) and listing prices seem to be lower. With 5 world-leading industries headquartered here (see list below), we continue to be a buoyant economy with so many

diverse jobs requiring many different skill sets resulting in healthy appreciation rates: • Entrepreneurial/VCs/Stanford • Tech including Apple, wireless, chips, Google and new AI • Bio Tech, Pharmaceuticals & Medicine (Stanford & UCSF) • Clean Tech such as solar, Tesla (automotive) • Animation Entertainment (Pixar, Nvidia & Lucas Films) Q: What has been your most satisfying moment while in the Real Estate business? LN: Helping my clients realize their dreams in getting their first home or seeing my retired clients realize their greatest return on their investment for their retirement. Q: You were featured in the 2019 list of Americas Best Real Estate Professionals. If we interviewed all your past clients … what is “one” common word that comes up when they describe working with you and why? LN: My clients would say that I’m honest, trustworthy, expe-

LN: I have been chair of the Sunny View board for over 20 years, which is a non-profit senior retirement community in Cupertino. We have created an environment where our seniors have a renewed purpose to their lives and are able to continue to thrive in their later years & fulfill their legacy. We leverage tech products such as iN2L (very large computer wall tablet) and artificial intelligence tools such as Echo dots and Nest thermostats to assist them. With iN2L, our cognitive or dementia residents in Summer House can play the piano and entertain their neighbors or other residents can see their hometowns or attend their grandchildren’s weddings. Partnering with local high schools, those students can earn community service hours in writing the biographies of our residents as a gift for their families. Residents raise money for scholarships for the staff and together they work on community projects that benefit children in the hospital. The local Lutheran churches started it, so the spiritual element is there, and we have a full time wonderful chaplaincy team, who brings wonderful programs and worship services for our residents as well. Q: If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why? LN: I would like to answer with 2 people. Jesus Christ and Abra-

ham Lincoln. As a direct descendant of Abraham Lincoln (my paternal great grandmother’s cousin was Nancy Hanks, his real mother), I would love to interview him on how we can heal our nation by realizing we have more in common than have differences. I would love to meet Jesus to learn from him on how he changed us to serve others and be inspired by his message on gratitude and being in his presence. Q: How do you maintain a healthy work life balance? LN: Life is so precious! Keeping a perspective and having a sense of humor (along with eating right, getting enough sleep and exercise) brings so much enrichment and joy into my life. Knowing that God, my family and my life’s work of making a difference are my priorities and keeping clarity of purpose are the keys to keeping a balance. Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? LN: That the value of truly listening to my clients can really guide me to better serve them. It is the ability to focus on what clients really need and give them that concierge experience! Recently, the actor, Tom Hanks shared how Mister Rogers was a masterful listener and used the acronym, WAIT as a guide to help him improve his ability to better listen. It stands for “Why Am I Talking”, which I have found to be a great tool for thoughtful listening. Q: What advice do you have for the next generation of women behind you? LN: Don’t let fear sabotage your ability to take risks and don’t lose the courage to be your best self! It can be challenging for women to continue to believe in themselves and to know that they can succeed and to not lose the confidence and faith that they are on the right path despite the challenges. Rehearse each challenging task mentally in advance, so you are ready to address them and have considered all scenarios (from Stephen Covey). Previously, as a corporate VP in a very dynamic and changing environment, I knew that the people I had the privilege to lead truly made the key difference, as they were the ones closest to the clients’ needs. Respect all those who have led the way, listen and be grateful to your mentors. All of us can recollect those who believed in us and were humbled by their incredible support. They were the ones who created your path!

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CATHLEEN GOUVEIA DESIGN PRINCIPAL AT CATHLEEN GOUVEIA DESIGN, ALLIED ASID

Cathleen Gouveia is the Design Principal of Cathleen Gouveia Design, an award-winning design firm based in Belvedere-Tiburon, California delivering high-end residential Interior Design and Project Management services to the San Francisco Bay Area, Lake Tahoe, the Napa and Sonoma Wine Region, the Hamptons, Nantucket and beyond. Her work has been featured on Home and Garden Television (HGTV), California Living® Television, in The San Francisco Chronicle, and several other periodicals. Cathleen is the 2016/17 President of ASID California North, and an Associate Member of the IIDA. CGD was founded in Sausalito in 2004. Cathleen previously designed spaces for prestigious residential design firms in San Francisco. Her work has appeared at The Traditional Home Napa Showhouse (2012 and 2014), The San Francisco Decorator Showcase House (2011), The Elle Décor Home Tour (2011) and the Marin Designers Showcase House (2004, 2005, 2007, 2010). The San Francisco Chronicle named Cathleen a, “San Francisco Stylemaker”. Ms. Gouveia was the recipient of The 2011 ASID Cal North Design Excellence Award for, “Best Sustainable Residential Interior Design Project”; The 2015 Design Excellence Award for, “Best Showhouse Design” (1st Place); “The Best Residential Project Under 3,000SF” (2nd Place), and ASID Design Excellence Award this year, “Best Residential Space in the Public Domain (Living Rooms, Dining Rooms). Cathleen graduated with Honors from the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) where she received an MFA Degree in Interior Architecture and Design, and received The Departmental Award for Design Excellence. She studied European Architecture, Art and Design in London, Paris, and Rome; and completed post-baccalaureate studies at The School of Visual Arts (SVA), and The N.Y. School of Interior Design. The hallmark of Cathleen’s style is a conceptual perspective unique to the history and vernacular of each building and design client. Cathleen has established a cornucopia of unique sources, artisans and suppliers. In her free time, Cathleen may be found indulging her passion for travel, art, design, music and boating. She divides her time between San Francisco, CA; Bay Head NJ; and East Hampton, NY and one day plans to open a design studio in Nantucket, MA.

P.O. BOX 1203 | TIBURON, CA 94920 TEL. 415.203.8663 | FAX: 888.908.1634 WWW.GOUVEIADESIGN.COM

If you want to find the best home or investment, partner up with an experienced and proven agent, Jessie Lee. She is an award-winning realtor with a track record of among the top 1% of real estate professionals in the Bay Area. Anyone who worked with Jessie is familiar with her tenacity and exceptional negotiating skills. She is well-informed, well-connected, a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), and a consistent top-earning producer for her brokerage since 2010. Jessie specializes in high-rise condos, urban lofts, corporate, and personal investments, multi-family units, and single-family homes. Over the years, she has cultivated valued client relationships, which help continue to grow her business through referrals. Jessie offers her clients the most up-to-date market analysis and investment opportunities, and her guidance continually leads to smoother transactions. She also prides herself on her hard-working team to provide resources and the best service possible to clients. Raised in Korea by parents who are real estate

investors, Jessieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formative years were heavily influenced by entrepreneurs who often discussed real estate-related topics at dinner. Her upbringing taught her invaluable real-world business experience long before many of her peers began their path to entrepreneurship. Today, Jessie is a product of Korean, American, and French influences, having married a French hubby. She is multilingual and can speak English, Korean, Japanese, and French. Outside of work and family, Jessie is active in the Foreign Investment Professionals Group, and serves as the Vice President of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce in San Francisco. She is an avid traveler who frequently visits Asia and Europe while keeping a close eye on global and local real estate market trends and always brewing up ways to expand her network of investors, financial service providers, and other agents and brokers. Jessie aims to continually bring value to her clients and foster new relationships. If interested in real estate, partner up with Jessie and gain a true friend in the business.

Pamela Lindsay Pamela Lindsay co-founded the College of Adaptive Arts (CAA) with DeAnna Pursai in the spring of 2009, launching a vision of lifelong collegiate education for those who have historically not had access to such opportunity. The effort began with one student and endless possibilities, a twinkle in the eye, and a call upon their hearts. However, that little-vision-that-could has developed into one of their community’s most historic and impactful contributions to accessible, lifelong higher education for adults with differing abilities. The importance of this mission has been recognized locally and state-wide while the college itself has grown strong as a California charitable organization. CAA “Cardinals” are spirited collegiate men and women with a whole wide and beautiful range of learner profiles, including those who happen to have Down syndrome and autism. They have collectively earned over 11,000 credits to-date toward private diplomas in designated areas of adapted classroom study. The students do not need to leave the program upon graduation or cease their learning journey. They can stay and pursue as many diploma tracks as they like or take just one class. Like any community college, CAA is there for students whenever and however they need it. Lindsay explains that adults with differing abilities ages 18 to 70+ can experience obstacles to their pursuit of lifelong academic development including cost, age-out, class content, pace of study, and access to programs. These obstacles inhibit movement toward ongoing diploma goals. Lindsay’s M.A. in Theatre Arts, background in special needs education and consulting, and experience in college classroom instruction guide continual invention of innovative designs for eliminating these limits. She is currently completing her doctorate in research and development of ground-breaking ways for CAA staff, students, families, and community partners to collaboratively construct new solutions for curriculum and instruction within this disruptive and adaptive learning model. A day in Cardinal life has expanded to include joyful learning moments in nine schools of study. However, the need for expanded classroom space also grows every year. According to Lindsay, this is a great problem. They are now launching the next stage of their vision to accommodate growth: the move of their students and programs from current studio space to an existing college campus. The significance of this step will only be surpassed by the increase in the students’ learning and contribution potential. Colleges with space on their campus and in their plans for expanded impact

will experience another stratosphere of identified inclusive learning opportunities when they add CAA to their student community. The battle cry for this revolutionary work is, “Move the mountain!” The students’ motto is, “Showcase ability!” The community cry is “Transform perception!” Lindsay describes these as ingredients for powerful momentum and change if, as their alma mater asks, we all work together and “Just Believe.”

Pamela Lindsy, Co-Founder | College of Adaptive Arts 1401 Parkmoor Ave. #260 | San Jose, CA 95126 | mobile: 408-538-3809

DeAnna Pursai DeAnna Pursai teamed up with Pamela Lindsay in 2009 to co-found College of Adaptive Arts, which provides an equitable collegiate experience to adults with special needs who historically have not had access to college education. This lifelong college model is one the first of its kind in the country, and it’s grow 12-fold since inception. CAA’s vision is empowering the student body to creatively transform perception of individuals with disabilities. The long-term vision is to make this model of lifelong education as flexible and scalable so that it can be replicated across the country to become the Special Olympics model in the education space. DeAnna received her Bachelor’s at Purdue University in special education and elementary education and her Master’s from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in Educational Policy Analysis. She’s active in the San Jose in San Jose Rotary Club, in the MyProGroup business leads/referrals group, and she sits on the board of Christmas in the Park. Her guiding force is her sister, Angel, who happens to have Down syndrome, who is a constant source of love, guidance, and in rethinking possibility.

DeAnna Pursai, Executive Director | Official Mountain Mover, College of Adaptive Arts 1401 Parkmoor Ave. #260 | San Jose, CA 95126 | mobile: 408-394-6816

Priscilla is a totally passionate Realtor® with tremendous energy for helping her clients buy or sell their homes. She worked in the construction industry for over a decade and this has given her an extensive network of contacts as well as an experienced eye for evaluating properties. She speaks the language of construction and this is crucial for working with contractors and inspectors throughout the buying and selling process.

Priscilla is a homeowner herself who bought a fixer 33 years ago and has watched it grow in value. She is a believer in Real Estate investment as a means to create wealth. It’s her greatest joy to take care of her clients’ needs and make them her top priority. She is extremely hardworking and dedicated. She has excellent negotiation skills and a great reputation in the Real Estate industry. Priscilla utilizes her expertise throughout the process to provide her clients with the highest level of service.

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Recognized Education Leader,

Meet Dr. Mary Ann Dewan, Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools Q: When your career in Education started, did you have any idea, you would be where you are today? Dr. Dewan: I began my career in education as a fourth grader teacher. I loved teaching and I had no idea at that time what the future would hold nor what the possibilities for advancement were.

Dr. Dewan, presiding over the Opportunity Youth Academy’s (OYA) ribbon cutting ceremony at Snell. The blended program engages 16-24 year olds to earn their high school diploma and leave with a path to post graduation college or career.

“As a teacher, I thought it was important to create the conditions in the classroom for active learning and collaboration. I believed that children enjoy learning, like to set goals and embrace new challenges.”

Q: When you began your career as a teacher, can you describe your philosophy of teaching? Dr. Dewan: As a teacher, I thought it was important to create the conditions in the classroom for active learning and collaboration. I believed that children enjoy learning, like to set goals, and embrace new challenges. Students demonstrate their knowledge and are most engaged with “Hands on” learning lessons and projects. I believed that it was my job to be prepared and I was always eager to work long hours to prepare lesson plans and materials for students. Q: How long were you a teacher before you knew you wanted to take the next step as Principal? Can you share with our audience what motivated you to take that step up to Principal? Dr. Dewan: My career in Educational administration started when a leader I admired greatly encouraged me to become a school principal. I was hesitant at first to leave the classroom after nine years because the students inspired me. I had taken on several leadership roles with committees and schoolwide projects and really enjoyed the work. My mentor convinced me that I could do even more as a school principal and that I could make a bigger contribution to the community. Q: Tell us about the time you spent as Director of Special Education?

The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is a champion of public education, providing instructional, administrative, business, and technology services to the 31 school districts of Santa Clara County, representing over 275,000 students from preschool through 12th grade.

Dr. Dewan: I served as Director of Special Education for about five years. It was a remarkably challenging and extremely rewarding position in which I could create programs and support young people and their families. During this time, we explored the concepts of universal design for learning as a means to break down silos and support all students. Q: How is education changing? Dr. Dewan: It is a very exciting time in education. We know more about how students learn than we ever have before. We are able to engage students in learning about science, technology, computer science, engineering and math through project based learning and hands on projects. We are also seeing the value of civics education, encouraging youth to understand and participate in our democracy, understanding history through varying perspectives and applying the skills of civil discourse. Q: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges that teachers face today? Dr. Dewan: Teachers today are facing many challenges. Teachers worry about the increasing levels of anxiety that young people are experiencing. Safety and emergency preparedness are top of mind for many educators today as well. Teachers have to be prepared for potential emergencies cre-

ated by fire, earthquake or flood. Campus safety continues to be an area of challenge for all of us in education. Q: Can you share with us some of the educational opportunities you have championed as Superintendent? Dr. Dewan: I am a strong advocate for the expansion of Early care, heath, and education. The first five years of a child’s life are the most vulnerable years and also the time when the most brain development is occurring. Along with my colleagues on the County Board of Education, we have championed efforts to increase access to quality early learning. I was an early champion of Educare of California at Silicon Valley, a high quality early learning campus in east San Jose. Inclusive learning is a high priority and one way that I demonstrate the importance is through support of the Inclusion Collaborative. We expanded the Inclusion Collaborative to have a focus on equity and to serve families and children birth to Grade 12. Q: In your role as Superintendent, what steps can you implement to see that every child gets the opportunity to succeed and be prepared for college, career and life? Dr. Dewan: Every child is precious, and it

Recognized Education Leader,

is our obligation to provide each and every child with opportunities. Strong partnerships are key. When we work together to offer enriching programs and services in and out of school and remove barriers to access, children have their best chance. A firm foundation in the first few years is an important component and investments in health and wellness pay dividends. Q: I see several issues facing Public Schools like; Classroom Size, Parent Involvement, Student Health (Obesity) along with Bullying. I’m sure funding is a big issue … what do you feel still needs to be done to assure that no child is left behind? Dr. Dewan: I am glad that you brought up funding. It is the biggest challenge facing our schools. California still ranks near the bottom in the nation in terms of per pupil spending, despite the fact that we are one of the wealthiest economies in the world. I think there is more that could be done to address funding in education. Educators, families, and community want schools to be able to support the needs of their students in many areas including social and emotional wellness. Another issue that is becoming more prominent in the bay area is homelessness and housing insecurity. More families and children are impacted by the devastating consequences of instable housing on their health, wellness, and education. Q: What types of programs can be implemented to assure students and teachers can have a continued successful partnership? Dr. Dewan: Programs that create a safe and healthy community and promote equity build the foundation for successful partnership. Mindfulness and trauma informed practices building community and wellness. Q: What’s the toughest part of your job? Dr. Dewan: I sincerely love my work. The things that make the work tough are the same things that make it rewarding. I enjoy tackling new challenges and problem solving. I hope that in some small way, every day, I can make a difference for the children in Santa Clara County. Q: What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? Dr. Dewan: The pace of change today is incredibly fast, and the allure of the next new thing is ever present. This environment can be challenging and anxiety inducing. Living, working, and leading in this environment requires balance in ways previous generations did not have to worry about. Q: What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? Dr. Dewan: Leaders make mistakes. We don’t always get it right. The leadership lesson is forgiveness. We have to be willing to reflect, learn from our mistakes, forgive ourselves and then extend the same to those with whom we work. Leadership is a people business. Q: Can you share with our audience one of your most memorable events of your career? Dr. Dewan: One of the most memorable events of my career was at the first graduation of our Opportunity Youth Academy. Each graduation continues to be memorable. Opportunity Youth Academy is a school for young people who need another chance and some additional support and encouragement to earn their high school diploma and embark on college and career. As one of the architects of the program, I was overjoyed at our first graduation. The stories of perseverance and gratitude from the students are unforgettable. We demonstrated that we believed in them and they achieved despite all odds.

L-R: Dr. Dewan, County Superintendent of Schools; Rebecca Reynolds Lytle, CEO of Santa Clara County Federal Credit Union; and Ron Gonzales, President and CEO Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley and former Mayor of the City of San Jose, attend the 49th Annual Teacher Recognition Celebration in 2018. Every fall the Teacher Recognition Celebration honors Santa Clara County’s finest teachers, each selected by their respective school districts. The SCCOE produces the annual gala with the generous support of community partners. The Teacher Recognition Celebration is the oldest and largest celebration of teachers in California, and the most prestigious local award given to classroom teachers.

Q: Which woman inspires you and why? Dr. Dewan: I am inspired by women and girls every day. I admire the courage of women who run for elected office and engage in public service. This calling to elected office is foundational to preserving our democracy. Qualified, committed women who serve in elected office deserve our support and admiration. I would like to honor my deceased grandmother, Rosella. She inspired me as a young person and continues to do so. Rosella advocated for inclusion and acceptance of her daughter with Down’s Syndrome at a time in our country’s history when individuals with disabilities were removed from their families and institutionalized. She fought against institutionalization knowing that inclusion, acceptance, and love were inherent rights for all children. Rosella encouraged me to pursue college and to

have a career, opportunities that she and other women of her generation did not have. I continue to be inspired by her courage, persistence, and wisdom to advocate for all children. Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? Dr. Dewan: Women continue to face challenges related to wage equity, affordable childcare, and access to diverse opportunities. We still have a long way to go towards equity in representation in elected office, CEO positions, and in the board room. And, in certain fields of work, women are still underrepresented. Women working in careers that have been traditionally dominated by women such as childcare and early education have lower than average wages. Q: Can you offer some advice for young women that

may want to pursue a career as an educator? Dr. Dewan: I hope more young women will consider a career in education. I have found it to be a very rewarding profession. There are many types of positions in education so consider all of the possibilities. Not everyone who works as an educator is a classroom teacher. All types of positions exist such as college professor, community college instructor, tutor, special educator, school psychologist, interpreter, audiologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, and school nurse. Educators are everyday heroes. The first few years can be challenging so it is important to take care of yourself, establish a network of colleagues, and never stop learning. The more we learn, the more we realize how much there is to learn about children, teaching and learning, curriculum, brain development, and building community in the classroom.

After graduating from the University of San Francisco in 1976 with an elementary credential, Jackie was faced with a downturn in the education system with schools closing and teaching jobs scarce. Wanting to use the degree she obtained, she searched for a position in the corporate world where she’d not only be an employee but educator as well. Always fascinated with construction and property, she landed her first job with Century 21 Real Estate in their Regional Office in San Francisco where she oversaw the company’s real estate school; scheduling classes and managing the students, as well as acting as activities coordinator organizing events for the 144 franchises. In 1979, a new marriage took her to San Diego and another real estate firm, only this time it was as an Asset Manager for The Koll Company, a real estate investment group. Her projects were the Rancho San Diego Shopping Center, with seven major stores and forty small “mom and pop” business. It was her responsibility to see construction was done on time, move the tenants in, and manage the rents. Her next project was The Bank of America Building in downtown San Diego, a twenty-two-story high rise. In 1981, Jackie moved back to the Bay Area with her children’s father to start their family and raised four children in Los Altos. Twenty-three years later, in 2004, as her last child left the nest, Jackie knew her talents would be best served to help others with the largest investment they ever own, their home, and became a residential real

estate agent. In her practice, she prides herself on acting as a consultant, not a salesperson. Her duties to her clients include the education necessary for making the proper decisions when buying or selling a home, as well as serving them above and beyond their expectations. She works to bring her sellers top dollar and guide buyers to properties that will not only have resale value but a home where memories are created, shared and last a lifetime. Her primary goal is to make realty a reality. With her Senior Real Estate Specialist designation, she works closely with the older population and their families making transitions in their life smooth and stress-free. She also holds a certification in dealing with distressed properties. In her spare time, she volunteers at the YMCA, helping adults and children reach their fitness goals; is a mentor with Partnering for Next Generation guiding high school students towards college; and spends her free time raising money for the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity, and The 100 Women Foundation. Jackie is also a published author. Her first book, My Life in a Tutu, a memoir, was launched in June 2018 with WriteLife Publishers. She is currently working on her next project, The Promise I kept, and is a columnist for the Los Altos Town Crier newspaper with her column Haugh-about-That, covering newsworthy and human-interest stories.

Dr. Aparajita Sohoni Physician Lead, QTbreasthealth

For every woman who is diagnosed with breast cancer, 19 more are likely to endure the sleepless nights, depression and anguish commonly associated with a false positive. And those are just some of the reactions felt by women who have been mistakenly told they have a potentially life-threatening disease. At QTbreasthealth, our mission is to provide reassurance without radiation. With two locations right here in the Bay Area, we provide the only true 3D, FDA-cleared breast imaging technology for women as a follow-up to mammography – and with no radiation, compression or injections. Throughout my career as an ER doctor, I’ve witnessed the results of delayed cancer diagnoses or side effects from treatments and wondered what may have happened with earlier detection or a more progressive approach to medicine like we have at QTbreasthealth. It’s time you put the decision making about your breast health in the most qualified hands – yours.

3 Hamilton Landing, Suite 180 Novato, CA 94949 415-497-4800

Sunaina Arora is proud to be part of Compass, one of the most sophisticated and dominant real estate companies in the Bay Area. She is a full-service real estate professional and brings years of experience to the business. She is committed to growth and is constantly educating herself on ever changing real estate laws and learning new skills. She brings wealth of knowledge and professionalism to the business. Sunaina strongly believes that in business, the best reward is a happy customer. She is patient and takes all the time necessary to guide her clients through the process. Her relentless commitment to clients and their needs, and her passion and enthusiasm for her work has enabled her to build a strong referral based business. A business that is built on partnership, trust and client focus. Whether you are a first time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, Sunaina guarantees that you receive the highest level of service. She is highly skilled in marketing and negotiation. And ensures that you have the best representation in every transaction.

Honest, Funny & Filled with Passion to Empower Women!

Dion Lim,

News Anchor / Reporter ABC7 News, KGO-TV Q: How did your career start as news anchor? DL: By a stroke of pure luck! I had always wanted to be a reporter, then a network correspondent before the age of 30. This was the career path I had carved out in my head. But during my first on-air job in tiny Springfield, Massachusetts, (market 109) just a year into the job, somehow, my agent got a call from the ABC station in Kansas City (market 33) and asked if I wanted to try anchoring. Having never anchored before, and wanting to keep it a secret, a friend of mine from a competing station snuck me into their studios after hours to record a demo using the day’s old scripts. When I got the job and first sat down at that desk, (much to the chagrin of my much older, experienced, talented co-workers) I made a lot of mistakes but learned so much. All it took was for one person to believe in me, someone who thought I had talent and just needed the experience and skills. He laid the foundation for what I do today, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else in the world. Q: What is a typical day like for you? DL: After working nights most of my career, I’ve discovered unless you are regimented on waking up it’s far too easy to sleep in until noon! So, when the alarm goes off, usually around 8 I immediately get on my phone and scroll through social media and catch up on the big news of the day. That keeps me from going back to sleep. DION AT THE OSCARS 2019

In the news business you never know what your

REPORTING ON THE KAVANAUGH HEARING

shift will be depending on the day...and that some weeks I work day shifts and night shifts and the occasional early morning 3am shift! The hours before my shift starts at 2:30 or 3 pm, I try to be as productive as possible. This week, I’m meeting with the Asian Realtors Association of America to go over a speech I’m presenting for their yearly gala.Other days I meet up with friends for lunch since I’m at work at the time most people go out to dinner and drinks. I’ve been a part of an online food group called #FoodTravelChat for several years and for the San Francisco members, we explore new places to eat and we jokingly refer to ourselves as “those people” who take photos of our food to post on social media later! As soon as work begins, it’s go-go-go. For reporting shifts, I’m in assignment meetings, making calls, in the field grabbing interviews and trying to juggle many tasks at once. A photographer friend of mine introduced me to a device called a Hot Logic, which is like a portable oven the size of a lunchbox. I use it to eat while I write my story script and web script. Depending on what I’m covering, I could be live in the 11 pm newscast. The fact you never know where you’ll be on any given day is what makes reporting exciting. On anchoring days, it’s equally as busy, but inside the station. There is proofing and writing of scripts. Recording teases and tracking story packages and calls to set up stories for reporting days. Since we have a lot of newscasts at ABC7 during

the week and on the weekend, I usually use my Hot Logic at my desk for dinner or we’ll all order delivery. Postmates, Caviar and Uber Eats are a must some nights! Some evenings, we’ll have special guests visit the studio. I’m involved with a group called Best Buddies, which promotes friendship, job creation and confidence for those with physical and developmental disabilities. Recently, a generous donor spent $1600 to sponsor a group of 10 Buddies and their family members to watch one of our newscasts. My co-anchor Eric Thomas and I, along with meteorologist Drew Tuma spent time answering their questions, showing them the technology of the studio and just spending quality time eating cake with them. These evenings are very special to me and part of why I love what I do! After getting home at around midnight, (or later if I’m reporting and live somewhere far away from the station) I stay up another hour or two reading, unwinding with all of my DVR’d shows and eating my 4th meal with my husband. He is a professional poker player and has a flexible schedule, so it’s good he’s a night-owl too! Q: Can you share with our audience one of your most memorable events you’ve covered? DL: My first day on air at ABC7 was when the North Bay Fires broke out. As soon as I stepped into the newsroom, a colleague thrust a big red

Honest, Funny & Filled with Passion to Empower Women!

Dion Lim,

In the news business you never know what your

REPORTING ON THE KAVANAUGH HEARING

newscast from her. She taught me every has a season and a place to shine. Lyanne Melendez here at ABC7 News/KGO-TV is inspirational because she’s reported all over the world for CNN and is tough as nails, knows who she is and has been a cheerleader for me as the relative new kid at KGO. Members of Women Entrepreneurs of Los Altos launch festive inaugural 2017 WE Vibe Block Party highlighting the women-owned businesses of Los Altos.

I’ve had a lot of success, but behind it also came a lot of rejection. But it’s those who said “yes” and took a chance or believed in me that helped me get to where I am today.

DION VISITS GOOD MORNING AMERICA

bag my direction and inside was my fire-retardant suit, a face mask, and hard helmet. I’ve covered tornadoes and hurricanes and all other natural disasters...but a wildfire, which grows, and spread is unlike anything I could ever imagine. I met so many people those first few days who had experienced tremendous loss. A man, covered in ash, dazed and wandering the streets. A family frantically packing up their belongings to evacuate. A woman who had lost a dozen horses to the flames. I still keep in touch with some of them today, and it’s been encouraging to hear how they’re starting to rebuild and piece their lives back together. The funniest? A time in Kansas City when a man was arrested after licking a frog, hoping the animal’s poisonous venom would create a hallucinogenic experience! Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? DL: That you don’t have to be the smartest, the most talented or most skilled in order to thrive in your career. (I’m definitely not and have the grades from school to prove it!) It’s about being able to communicate, not

Q: Do you have any advice you can share for those women who may want to pursue a career in broadcast journalism? DL: Don’t be discouraged by the “no’s”. Let them fuel your passion to strive for something better. This is a subjective business. It’s not like mathematics, where there is always a clear and defined right or wrong answer to an equation. In TV news, you could be a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, but if one person doesn’t like your voice, and you don’t get the job, does that mean you’re not talented? Absolutely not.

only with an audience but during those day-to-day “microinteractions” in the workplace and also with yourself. Being comfortable in your own skin to have the confidence to tackle any challenge that comes your way. This is the theme of my book “untitled” (McGraw-Hill 2019) coming out this fall. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? DL: Do I have to pick just one?! The cliché thing to say would be my mom but she is truly remarkable in many ways. My mother grew up in Taiwan and because girls were not viewed as valuable like boys, she was given away to another family. When that family rejected her and gave her back, can you imagine what that must do to you psychologically? Later as an immigrant she faced tremendous racism and adversity in the US. I’m amazed by her work ethic and grit to get things done and to take care of our family despite all of the hurdles. When it comes to TV news, I’ve had the fortune of working with some remarkable women in my career. Sonja Gantt the former main anchor at the NBC station in Charlotte taught me how to lead a newsroom with kindness and empathy when I took over the 11pm

Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? DL: What AREN’T some challenges women face today? An important topic I speak about often at schools and at women’s conferences is being “ok” with who you are and understanding you are “enough”. There is so much pressure to look and sound a certain way. To fit the standard of beauty and success. But unless you wholeheartedly grasp the notion of acceptance of who you are, you cannot effectively emote and communicate with your audience, your colleagues, the environment around you. Early in my career, I was very insecure. Unaware of my unique talents as a person. But during this time, I was portraying this image of perfection on TV. It was not authentic. My advice is to never let others take away your confidence. Your sense of self-worth. It empowers you to pass on these lessons to others and empower them. If you remember what that is, you’ll be untouchable. Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?

DION AT THE 2018 OSCARS

DL: It’s why I partnered with my literary agent at Full Circle Literary and my publisher, McGraw-Hill to write a book about communication. It’s number one. Unlike in say, college, workplaces are filled with people from all different backgrounds, all different ages. The bringing together of a diverse workforce means each person can bring inherent skills and talents to the table. But it also can mean breakdowns in communication style. This breeds stress, drama, and frustration. You don’t have to be the smartest, the quickest or the most talented. But when you know how to listen and react appropriately with those you interact with, you’ll have a more productive, harmonious work environment. Q: What do you like the most about living in the Bay Area? DL: Hands down the diversity, which is reflected in the thinking, the lifestyle, and the FOOD! Every city I’ve had the opportunity to work in has shaped who I am today, and I’m so grateful for those experiences. But San Francisco has a vibrancy like no other, which makes me feel alive.

I’ve had a lot of success, but behind it also came a lot of rejection. But it’s those who said “yes” and took a chance or believed in me that helped me get to where I am today.

DION VISITS GOOD MORNING AMERICA

DION AT THE 2018 OSCARS

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Q: How did you get involved in the nonprofit sector? PD: I wanted to make a difference and give back to the community and felt the nonprofit sector was aligned with my values. I started off my career providing direct services in education to migrant children and immigrant families in the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys. Being a child of immigrant parents and wanting to give back to my community, I decided to pursue a master’s in social work with a focus in serving low-income Latino children as a therapist. As I was pursuing my degree, I gained a better understanding on how policies impact low-income families and decided to concentrate my career in policy advocacy and community building. For the past 20 years, I’ve worked in the nonprofit sector advocating for improving the lives and opportunities of Latino and immigrant families. It’s my passion and it’s personal. Q: Tell us about your time with the SIREN organization … what changes did you bring about in your role as Executive Director? PD: SIREN, an immigrant rights organization in San Jose, will always be close to my heart. I first started working at SIREN as their policy director. I’m so grateful for SIREN providing me the space and tools to learn how to bring the voice of the immigrant community on issues that are impacting them. I left SIREN to continue advocating for the Latino community in Sacramento with UnidosUs (formerly National Council of La Raza) and Latino Coalition for a Healthy California. I was happy to return to SIREN as their Executive Director in 2005. During my ten years at SIREN, I brought the organization to financial stability, reorganized its program priorities, and partnered with key statewide and national partners that led to victories for immigrants and their families. This couldn’t have happened without having a dynamic and dedicated Board and staff. Q: In your current position as Executive Director of the Chicana / Latina Foundation, can you share with our audience the foundations mission? PD: The mission of the Chicana Latina Foundation (CLF) is to empower Latinas and Chicanas through personal, educational and professional development. We invest in helping Latinas find their own path to success and open a path for others. It’s about cultivating leadership so that they have the confidence and skills to succeed in college, career and life. Q: What has been the impact of Chicana / Latina Foundation in the Bay Area since its inception in 1977? PD: The Chicana Latina Foundation was founded by three Latinas attending UC Berkeley who found the need to support other Latinas pursuing higher education. As first-generation college students, they realized the importance to come together to support each other and future generations of Latina college students. As of today, CLF has awarded nearly $1 million dollars in scholarship assistance to over 600 low-income and first-generation Latina college students in Northern California. Of this number, 400 scholarship awardees have participated in CLF’s leadership institute to succeed as leaders in social change. In 2015, CLF conducted a survey to its alumnae and found that CLF doubled the rate of educational attainment compared to Latinos statewide average.

Promoting Professional & Leadership Development of Latinas,

Patricia Diaz,

Executive Director of the Chicana Latina Nonprofit Foundation

Q: Tell us about your role as Executive Director of the foundation. PD: I joined CLF in January 2018. As their Executive Director, I’m responsible for the agency’s leadership and oversee program and organizational management, resource and fund development, financial operations and administration, and the management and evaluation of personnel. During my time at CLF, I am amazed by the love, community and support that underlies everything we do. CLF is successful because at the core of its work is an inherent love for the women we serve and a desire to serve as their cornerstone as they seek to grow as individuals and as leaders. When we provide a scholarship, we are saying “we believe in you.” When we provide our leadership program, we are helping them find their voice and make their words powerful and impactful. And what results, is a group of activated women who are involved in our communities and effecting change. Our participants and alumnae are powerful Latinas who will transform our future. Q: What are some of the goals you would like to achieve for the foundation? PD: First, it’s an honor to be able to follow in the footsteps of Olga Talamante and to receive so much love from the CLF board and community. As its first Executive Director, Olga led CLF for the last 15 years to be a respected and effective organization in building the power of Latinas.

With 40 years of investing in the leadership of Latinas, my goal is to listen and learn what has made CLF programs effective and through partnerships with the board, staff, alumnae, and supporters. I look forward to building onto that success to take it to the next level. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on our past and current work and the impact we want to make in the future. I’m excited of the endless opportunities. Q: Can you share with our audience your most memorable achievement in your career? PD: Obtaining my college degrees. I’m the first one and the only one in my family that graduated from college. My parents and siblings made sacrifices so that I could go to college. Because of that I am forever grateful to my family and completely understand what first-generation college students go through. When you receive that college degree, it has your name but it’s a family accomplishment. Q: What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience? PD: Embrace your cultural identity. This is what makes you a leader and better able to serve your community. As a woman and person of color, I’m strongly attached to my cultural identity. I had been to numerous leadership trainings that were very much related to skill acquisition. While they were very helpful, it didn’t get to the deep core of your identity. Growing up in the 70’s, my culture was not seen as an asset. The messaging we are hearing from the administration about Mexicans is similar to what I heard growing up. Oftentimes we internalize these beliefs and thoughts and they affect how we “show up.” After going through the Rockwood leadership program, I embraced my identity as a proud second-generation immigrant from the Salinas Valley. I learned from my immigrant parents and relatives to be courageous and brave, resilient, determined, and compassionate. This is what it means to be an immigrant. And that is why I’m grateful my journey landed me to the Chicana Latina Foundation. Their leadership program develops the student’s awareness and positive identification with the Latinx community by engaging them in the process of framing their individual stories of their past experiences from a deficit to an asset. We help our students build a strong cultural identity and pride in their heritage that propels their leadership and passion to create positive change. Q: Which woman inspires you and why? PD: It’s not necessarily one person but all the women in my family and relatives inspire and motivate me - My mom, sisters, tias (aunts), and primas (cousins). They are all immigrants or children of immigrants. They are all strong, determined and hardworking mujeres (women). They are my foundation. Q: What are some of the challenges you feel women face today? PD: As a Latina, we still face discrimination and gender stereotypes. In just 12 years, Latinas will make up the largest share of California’s workforce. Even though Latinas college graduation rates are increasing, far too many Latinas live in poverty and have the lowest median earnings. Keeping Latinas unprepared and things as they are, is a reality we cannot afford. Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace? PD: First, be true to who you are by embracing your identity and culture with pride. What you have to offer is vital and needed. You deserve to be at the table and your voice matters. Next, build a network of people you trust to be vulnerable. Have people in your circle who will support and uplift you and provide honest feedback with love. These are people who will help you through your growth and development. We’re always learning regardless of our age. Finally, take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Self-care is so important to be able to give your best, and I recommend integrating this at an early age. Selfcare shows that you value yourself. Q: What do you like the most about living in the Bay Area? PD: The food! My children are such foodies. When we moved to Eastern Washington, I learned how to cook Mexican and Indian foods – our favorite! I never learned how to cook and joke how my husband taught me how to boil chicken.

Promoting Professional & Leadership Development of Latinas,

Patricia Diaz,

Executive Director of the Chicana Latina Nonprofit Foundation

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Meet

Keynote speakers Randi Zuckerberg and NASA’s Dr. Natalia Batalha, Event Chair Jenny Dearborn, playwright Lauren Gunderson, and speaker Ann Bowers at TheatreWorks’ Leading Ladies, held in 2014, at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Photo credit: Drew Altizer Photography

Jenny

Dearborn,

Senior Vice Present, Chief Learning Officer, SAP

Speaking on The Art of Learning, Developing & Inspiring Leadership When you talk about Leadership, Management, Human Relations, Sales, and Excellence and someone who is one of the most inspiring, leading positive role models in Silicon Valley - Jenny Dearborn’s name will come up.

at Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems (acquired by Oracle), Suc-

peers are awesome and my manager is visionary and just

cessFactors and SAP. I’ve been a Chief Learning Officer at four

an all-around great guy. I love the type of work that I do,

different companies.

it’s challenging and rewarding. I love the variety in the work I do – leading the function at my company, helping

SVL: Who and what inspired you along your path to be where you

customers solve complex business challenges, writing arti-

are?

cles and speaking at conferences on topics that are import-

JD: I am severely Dyslexic, have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hy-

ant to me like data analytics, business strategy, the future

peractivity Disorder) and mild OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Dis-

of workplace and diversity & inclusion.

order) and was undiagnosed until age 18. The most formative part of my early life was

enny is Senior Vice President and Chief Learning Officer

and a Teaching Credential in 1993, and San Jose State University

growing up knowing that I was very smart

of SAP, the world’s largest business-to-business software

with a MBA in Organizational Development in 2003.

and capable, but placed in the lower tracked and Special Education classes at school. I felt

company, and is accountable for the learning and devel-

I love the type of work that I do, it’s challenging and rewarding. I love the variety in the work I do

SVL: You have learned so much about the special dynamics of Leadership … First, what is your definition of Leadership? JD: Great leaders inspire a common purpose, collaboratively create a shared vision and

opment of the 75,000 SAP employees worldwide. She has won

Q: Where do you work? What do you do? What has been your

that my early education years were wasted.

many top industry awards, including recognition as one of the 50

path leading you to today?

I felt great resentment towards the teach-

Most Powerful Women in Technology by the National Diversity

JD: I work at SAP, the world’s largest business software company.

ers and school system and vowed to make

Council in 2014 and 2015.

As the Chief Learning Officer, I’m accountable for the training, ed-

a difference in the education system so no

Her invaluable experience...plus interviews with more than 100

ucation, development and readiness of SAP’s 75,000 employees

student would ever experience the frustra-

global leaders,...has led to her best seller: Data Driven - How Per-

world-wide. I am in Human Resources and report to the Chief Hu-

tion and humiliation that I went through in

formance Analytics Delivers Extraordinary Sales Results.

man Resources Officer who reports to the CEO. I started as a high

my K-12 years. I felt great passion to drive

In the high tech universe, Jenny serves as a highly regarded advo-

school English, Public Speaking and Drama teacher at Woodside

change in our education system. This fire

cate and inspiration for many. Please enjoy this delightful conver-

High School. After two years I transitioned to corporate education

got me started in education, then after 2 years as a high school

their greatest potential. “Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to

sation with Jenny Dearborn...

as an instructor at Hewlett-Packard teaching the personal devel-

teacher I transitioned to the corporate education world for the

high sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher stan-

opment, management and leadership courses. I worked my way

opportunity to apply exciting and growing new learning tech-

dard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.”

Q: Where were you born and raised? Where did you go to

up through all the various roles in corporate learning and educa-

nology to impact learners on a mass scale.

—Peter Drucker

school and what did you study?

tion including carrying a quota in Sales selling learning services

JD: I was born in Marin, California and raised K-12 in Davis, Califor-

to external corporate customers and partners. I’ve worked at a

SVL: What do you like most about what you do?

ple, they instinctively redirect all credit to the team when praise

nia. I graduated from Davis High School in 1987, American River

small learning technology start-up that went public (Docent, now

JD: There are so many things I like, that I can’t say what I

comes and absorb all blame when criticism comes. They are slow

College with an AA in Social Science in 1989, UC Berkeley with a

Sum Total Systems), and had a succession of executive roles with

like the most. I love my team, they are hands down the

to punish and swift to reward. Leadership is about the courage to

BA in English in 1991, Stanford University with a MA in Education

increasing responsibility in Human Resources, Sales & Services

best professionals I’ve ever worked with in my career. My

stand alone and the integrity of intent. “Leadership and learning

translate that vision into reality. Leadership is about action and driving results for the greatest good, great leaders see solutions where others only see challenges and obstacles. Great leaders know that people want to “make a dent in the universe” as Steve Jobs famously said, and make the world a better place. This comes through empowering others to achieve

Great leaders have the humility to be a servant leader to their peo-

Meet

Jenny

Dearborn,

Senior Vice Present, Chief Learning Officer, SAP

at Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems (acquired by Oracle), Suc-

peers are awesome and my manager is visionary and just

cessFactors and SAP. I’ve been a Chief Learning Officer at four

an all-around great guy. I love the type of work that I do,

different companies.

it’s challenging and rewarding. I love the variety in the work I do – leading the function at my company, helping

Q: Who and what inspired you along your path to be where you

customers solve complex business challenges, writing arti-

are?

cles and speaking at conferences on topics that are import-

JD: I am severely Dyslexic, have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hy-

ant to me like data analytics, business strategy, the future

peractivity Disorder) and mild OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Dis-

of workplace and diversity & inclusion.

order) and was undiagnosed until age 18. The most formative part of my early life was

enny is Senior Vice President and Chief Learning Officer

and a Teaching Credential in 1993, and San Jose State University

growing up knowing that I was very smart

of SAP, the world’s largest business-to-business software

with a MBA in Organizational Development in 2003.

and capable, but placed in the lower tracked and Special Education classes at school. I felt

company, and is accountable for the learning and devel-

I love the type of work that I do, it’s challenging and rewarding. I love the variety in the work I do

Q: You have learned so much about the special dynamics of Leadership … First, what is your definition of Leadership? JD: Great leaders inspire a common purpose, collaboratively create a shared vision and translate that vision into reality. Leadership is

opment of the 75,000 SAP employees worldwide. She has won

SVL: Where do you work? What do you do? What has been your

that my early education years were wasted.

many top industry awards, including recognition as one of the 50

path leading you to today?

I felt great resentment towards the teach-

Most Powerful Women in Technology by the National Diversity

JD: I work at SAP, the world’s largest business software company.

ers and school system and vowed to make

Council in 2014 and 2015.

As the Chief Learning Officer, I’m accountable for the training, ed-

a difference in the education system so no

Her invaluable experience...plus interviews with more than 100

ucation, development and readiness of SAP’s 75,000 employees

student would ever experience the frustra-

global leaders,...has led to her best seller: Data Driven - How Per-

world-wide. I am in Human Resources and report to the Chief Hu-

tion and humiliation that I went through in

formance Analytics Delivers Extraordinary Sales Results.

man Resources Officer who reports to the CEO. I started as a high

my K-12 years. I felt great passion to drive

In the high tech universe, Jenny serves as a highly regarded advo-

school English, Public Speaking and Drama teacher at Woodside

change in our education system. This fire

cate and inspiration for many. Please enjoy this delightful conver-

High School. After two years I transitioned to corporate education

got me started in education, then after 2 years as a high school

their greatest potential. “Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to

sation with Jenny Dearborn...

as an instructor at Hewlett-Packard teaching the personal devel-

teacher I transitioned to the corporate education world for the

high sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher stan-

opment, management and leadership courses. I worked my way

opportunity to apply exciting and growing new learning tech-

dard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.”

SVL: Where were you born and raised? Where did you go to

up through all the various roles in corporate learning and educa-

nology to impact learners on a mass scale.

—Peter Drucker

school and what did you study?

tion including carrying a quota in Sales selling learning services

JD: I was born in Marin, California and raised K-12 in Davis, Califor-

to external corporate customers and partners. I’ve worked at a

Q: What do you like most about what you do?

ple, they instinctively redirect all credit to the team when praise

nia. I graduated from Davis High School in 1987, American River

small learning technology start-up that went public (Docent, now

JD: There are so many things I like, that I can’t say what I

comes and absorb all blame when criticism comes. They are slow

College with an AA in Social Science in 1989, UC Berkeley with a

Sum Total Systems), and had a succession of executive roles with

like the most. I love my team, they are hands down the

to punish and swift to reward. Leadership is about the courage to

BA in English in 1991, Stanford University with a MA in Education

increasing responsibility in Human Resources, Sales & Services

best professionals I’ve ever worked with in my career. My

stand alone and the integrity of intent. “Leadership and learning

about action and driving results for the greatest good, great leaders see solutions where others only see challenges and obstacles. Great leaders know that people want to “make a dent in the universe” as Steve Jobs famously said, and make the world a better place. This comes through empowering others to achieve

Great leaders have the humility to be a servant leader to their peo-

are indispensable to each other.” —John F. Kennedy Q: What is the best course of action for management when it comes to Leadership? What is the best course of action for the employee when it comes to Leadership? JD: I believe in leadership at every level, leadership is about person power not position power. Everyone, regardless if they are people managers or individual contributors, can and should be a leader.

Hone your management skills – When managing your work and family, you’re managing a complex organization. Do activities as a family, to maximize efficiency.

Photo credit: Drew Altizer Photography

Q: How do you see the workplace evolving and improving?

Keynote speakers Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo, New York Times best-selling author Lalita Tademy, Event Chair Jenny Dearborn, and Emmy Award-winning writer and producer Margaret Nagle at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s Leading Ladies event celebrating passion in arts and innovation, held in 2015, at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Photo credit: Drew Altizer Photography TheatreWorks Artistic Director Robert Kelley, Event Chair Jenny Dearborn, and TheatreWorks Managing Director Phil Santora at TheatreWorks’ Leading Ladies, held in 2014, at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Photo credit: Drew Altizer Photography

JD: The overarching theme for the workplace of the future is transparency.

the help you need.

business trip to align with a school break or just pull them from school

• Transparency in how we work: Your mobile device will become your office.

• Let it go – Your house does not have to be spotless. When you have a full

for a week here or there. John (or a grandparent or nanny) and the kids

• Transparency in where we work: We’ll work from everywhere - Workers will be

work and family life, the children have to learn to be independent. With

visit the local sites while I’m at the office working. We’ve done work/

spread across many time zones and countries in numerous satellite offices for

clear and consistent communication, every child can do their own laun-

family trips to: Mexico, Germany, China, Dubai, Singapore, Japan, Pan-

worker interaction, but not necessarily as daily destinations. Always-on video will

dry, clean their own rooms, clean the kitchen and bathrooms, make their

ama, Canada, England, France, Amsterdam, Australia, Belgium, Italy,

facilitate collaboration with colleagues in other locations.

own breakfast and lunch. Learning to be responsible and capable early on

to name a few….

• Transparency of our competence and value: Everyone will have a rating score,

is good for everyone.

I throw myself fully into what my children love as a way to spend time

based on his/her reputation capital, which is the sum total of your personal brand,

• Focus and prioritize – Do the high value work that only you can do and

together doing what interests them. Currently my 12 year old is ab-

the quality of your results, your expertise, depth and breadth of experience and

outsource the rest. You can outsource the laundry but your child only

solutely obsessed with Giants baseball, so he and I watch the games

social networks. The new workplace will be a results only work environment.

wants you there to see her win an award at school. Knowing how to fo-

together. It’s our special thing to do.

• Transparency in who we work for: Every manager will also have a rating score

cus on your highest priorities makes a big career and a big family possible.

I love to be creative. I write and publish articles in business magazines

based on similar criteria plus people management and functional leadership.

SVL: What do you see are some of the major issues facing us in today’s

and my first book Data Driven: How Performance Analytics Delivers

Employees will be hired into a company and then choose which manager they

work environment?

Extraordinary Sales Results was published in March 2015 – it debuted

want to work for based on the rating score of that manager.

JD: The globalization of work and changing demographics of the

at #1 in the new business releases on Amazon. I like to paint large

• Transparency of skill gaps: Big data, predictive analytics and artificial intelli-

workforce; multiple generations in the workplace

scale acrylic on canvas pictures, primarily pop art versions of comic

gence are enabling a workplace of the future that magnifies the global talent

• Contingent labor force

book superheroes.

shortage and makes more sparse highly skilled workers. Thus making lifelong

• Big data and analytics

learning a business requirement.

• Adaptation of mobile and social networks

SVL: Who are some of your favorite authors and what are some of your favorite books? Different topics? Are there books you like to rec-

Q: What do you recommend as tips and strategies for work-life balance?

SVL: If you could wave a magic wand, what would you like to see for

ommend?

JD: Well, I don’t think there is such a thing as work-life balance, but work-life inte-

progress in the workplace?

JD: I try to read what my kids are reading for pleasure or in school to

gration is very do-able. I was recently quoted in the Fortune Magazine article on

JD: I’d like to see a true meritocracy in the workplace. A workplace

make our dinner table conversation richer with the themes they are

this topic - Women with big jobs and big families: Balancing really isn’t that hard.

where people are paid equally for equal work regardless of their gen-

exploring and how to connect with broader issues in the world. So

Here are the tips and strategies mentioned in that article and others that I use.

der or race, and the diversity in the workplace at all levels of an organi-

if it’s a popular young adult series, I’ve probably read it. I go through

• Hone your management skills – When managing your work and family, you’re

zation mirroring the diversity in the population at large.

phases with the books I read. Right now I’m doing a research project on the knowledge and skills first time managers need and I’m reading

managing a complex organization. Do activities as a family, to maximize efficiency. I use a shared on-line calendar and each kid is color coded, they all have an

SVL: Who are some of the people who inspire you most and why?

stacks and stacks of books and white papers on the topic. For fun I

iPhone and can see where they need to be at any given time.

JD: My children and husband. I follow the research of a few social

listen to audio books and love Doris Kearns Goodwin who is such a

• Prioritize self care – Put your own oxygen mask on first. Managing your life takes

scientists, like Amy Cuddy of Harvard and Kelly McGonigal of Stanford,

great story teller.

energy, so never skimp on sleep, nutrition or exercise.

I find their work fascinating. SVL: What are some of your favorite movies, music, theater?

• Build your support team at work – Invest in the development of your staff to be accountable and independent. Seek sponsors and allies that understand and

SVL: You have many interests … please share with us what some of

JD: For movies – I love all horror / thriller / suspense films. I wrote my se-

support you.

these are?

nior thesis at UC Berkeley on the evolving role of women in horror films

• Build your support team at home – Enlist a village to help you and don’t be afraid

JD: I love to travel, I’m always up for going to a country that I’ve nev-

from Nosferatu in 1922 to Silence of the Lambs in 1991. The central idea

to ask for support (it’s a sign of strength not weakness). Live near family if possible.

er been to before. I’ve just passed 60 countries. I’m very fortunate

is that the female character in horror films is the manifestation of how

Invest in things that make your life easier. Not at the same time, but in the last 20

professionally to have worked for companies with operations around

our culture views women in society and as societies views of feminism

years I have employed all of the following: a part-time nanny, a full-time live-in au

the globe and have the opportunity to travel extensively for work. I

evolve, so does the female protagonist.

pair, home cook, meal delivery service, housekeeper, and a personal accountant.

also love to share with my family the cultures of the world and I’ve

For music – I love classic rap, hip hop and alternative punk from the 80s.

Depending on what the big challenge is at a given phase in life, reach out to get

brought them along on many of my business trips. I typically plan a

For theatre – I love any production that my kids are in.

are indispensable to each other.” —John F. Kennedy SVL: What is the best course of action for management when it comes to Leadership? What is the best course of action for the employee when it comes to Leadership? JD: I believe in leadership at every level, leadership is about person power not position power. Everyone, regardless if they are people managers or individual contributors, can and should be a leader.

Hone your management skills – When managing your work and family, you’re managing a complex organization. Do activities as a family, to maximize efficiency.

Photo credit: Drew Altizer Photography

SVL: How do you see the workplace evolving and improving?

JD: The overarching theme for the workplace of the future is transparency.

the help you need.

business trip to align with a school break or just pull them from school

• Transparency in how we work: Your mobile device will become your office.

• Let it go – Your house does not have to be spotless. When you have a

for a week here or there. John (or a grandparent or nanny) and the kids

• Transparency in where we work: We’ll work from everywhere - Workers will be

full work and family life, the children have to learn to be independent.

visit the local sites while I’m at the office working. We’ve done work/

spread across many time zones and countries in numerous satellite offices for

With clear and consistent communication, every child can do their own

family trips to: Mexico, Germany, China, Dubai, Singapore, Japan, Pan-

worker interaction, but not necessarily as daily destinations. Always-on video will

laun-dry, clean their own rooms, clean the kitchen and bathrooms, make

ama, Canada, England, France, Amsterdam, Australia, Belgium, Italy,

facilitate collaboration with colleagues in other locations.

their own breakfast and lunch. Learning to be responsible and capable

to name a few….

• Transparency of our competence and value: Everyone will have a rating score,

early on is good for everyone.