Today we’d like to introduce you to Nely Sanchez.
Nely, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Born and raised in Houston, Texas one of the most diverse cities, I grew up in a loving Hispanic household. Where family was at the forefront and higher education was the goal. As a young Latina growing up, I realized that individual passions can bring people together. I am proud to say that my culture, family, friends and experiences have led me to a path of giving, community service and philanthropy.
During my undergrad studies, I joined organizations that focused on volunteering and community service. Through those experiences, I knew that once I graduated I wanted to be involved with nonprofit work. After graduating in 2013 from the University of Houston-Downtown, I began my work in the nonprofit sector at a women’s healthcare clinic and fell passionately about the mission and the work that we were doing. I started to explore nonprofit fundraising and realized that is what I wanted to do. The culture of Philanthropy in Houston is enormous and I wanted to be part of that and hoped that others would join. We all have the strength and ability to give and improve our communities, all you have to do is find what you are passionate about.
After leaving the women’s health center in 2018, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management at the University of Houston-Downtown. I am currently in my second year in the program and have learned so much from my classmates and the remarkable professors who are leading these nonprofit organizations in Houston. My experiences growing up as a Latina and working in women’s healthcare has shaped me into the person I am today. I currently work for Shriners Hospitals for Children – Houston in the Medical Center and continue to work with individuals who are changing lives. At the current moment, I am also pursuing further knowledge in the art of portrait photography.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Yes, there have always been struggles along the way. Such as the wage gap, not only do women get paid less than our counterparts, but Hispanic women get paid even less. I think that it is important to advocate for ourselves. In Nonprofit fundraising, another struggle I have encountered is walking into a room and realizing that you are the only Hispanic woman. You have to confidently maneuver the room and believe in yourself that you do belong there and you have a lot to offer. These struggles have made me who I am today and will continue to advocate for those who are afraid to speak up. We all have something to offer and allowing everyone to have a seat at the table allows for better discussions and real change.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I currently work in Donor Development at Shriners Hospitals for Children- Houston in the medical center. I’m also a graduate student at the University of Houston-Downtown pursuing a Masters in Nonprofit Management. I hope to continue my work in the nonprofit sector and teach others about philanthropy and giving.
What were you like growing up?
From the time I was a small child, I was always relaxed and calm. I was naturally introverted but was able to come out of my shell when the situation called for it. My interests included going to museums – I always wanted to know the answers to my questions. I have always had a love for the outdoors and go] camping and fishing with my family throughout the year.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 832-659-7852
- Email: j.nelysanchez@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nelys4/
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