Jessica Valencia, YNPNsd Board Member & Membership Committee Co-Chair
Jessica is currently a Prevention and Community Engagement Specialist at Center for Community Solutions and is passionate about working to end sexual violence and dismantle the roots of oppression. She is excited to join the YNPN SD Advisory Board as the Membership Co-Chair and looks forward to connecting with other members.
Jessica is a San Diego native and graduate of San Diego State University, where she received her B.A. in Women’s Studies and Spanish, along with a certification in Spanish-English Translation and Interpretation. Through her experience working with different social justice organizations, she has gained skills in public speaking, conflict resolution and event planning. Jessica is committed to community engagement and volunteers with the Hermanitas Program through MANA de San Diego, CA Latinas for Reproductive Justice and the ACLU of San Diego and Imperial Counties. On her down time, she enjoys reading, running, and dancing to live music.
Now let's hear directly from Jessica!
What made you want to join the YNPN board?
I joined YNPN to have a space in which I had a network to rely on for professional advice and support. I had been a part of the Programming Committee for two years and had been contemplating joining the board for over a year. I wanted to make sure I was ready for board service before I committed to it and now here we are!
What is your favorite thing about your career thus far?
I love all of the connections and friends I have made as a result of my career. Ever since I graduated college, I have been able to continue growing my support system and community. I don’t think I would have made these connections if it wasn’t for my path in the nonprofit sector.
If you had one extra hour of free time a day, how would you use it?
I would learn how to play guitar. I love music and I would love to be able to play my favorite songs on guitar.
What has been the most fulfilling aspect of being a part of YNPN San Diego?
For me it would be having a space that fosters growth and development. It has been very rewarding to be able to talk about issues and challenges that come up in the workplace with a group of YNPN members, who all have a wide range of experience and advice, and discussing potential solutions. I also find it very helpful that I can talk openly about my vision for a world that is more equitable.
What would you say to someone on the fence about becoming a member, or even joining the board?
If someone is not sure about becoming a YNPN member, I would say to join us at our next Connection Corner to learn more about YNPN and discuss their professional goals to see if it may be a good fit. If someone is on the fence about joining the board, I would suggest to consider joining a committee to see how they like it and if they enjoy it, to apply to join the board the following year.