Papitto Celebrate Women’s History Month
In honor of Women’s History Month, we connected with several women-led, POC-funded nonprofits whose transformative work is shaping communities and driving change. We asked them who inspires them and what advice they can offer to women who are pursuing similar career paths in community service—and here’s what they had to share:
Nirva LaFortune, City Year RI
The women who have shaped my life helped me understand the power of resilience, education, and service.
My grandmothers shaped my understanding of strength and sacrifice. My aunt, who was also my best friend growing up, played an important role in my life as well. I was also deeply influenced by educators and mentors who believed in me along the way. One of the most significant was Dr. Theresa Powell, the former Vice President for Student Affairs at Temple University. She guided me through a pivotal time in my life and was a pillar of encouragement and wisdom. From mentors like Dr. Powell, I learned the importance of lifting others as you climb and believing in people even when they cannot yet see their own potential.
Nirva’s advice to other women:
Trust your voice. Be bold enough to follow your own direction and remember you do not have to do it alone. Seek advice, mentorship, and support along the way.
The very things that make you different may be the very things that allow you to change the world.
Marcela Betancur, Latino Policy Institute
My mom is one of the most inspirational people in my life. Her determination, work ethic, and compassion have been exemplary ways to live and move through life. Even while she had to leave her family and country behind, she always led with focus and determination to ensure I had a safe home, food on the table, and a good education. She faced enormous challenges and discriminatory behavior at work and in society as an immigrant with little English language abilities. However, that never prevented her from putting on a big smile at work and doing her best.
Marcela’s advice to other women:
Surround yourself with humans who can cheer you on when you’re doing great things, but more importantly, when you’re failing. Create friendships and relationships with people who have lived different lives, because it is only through proximity that we can truly understand the world. Read, travel, laugh.
Anita Bruno, Women in the Trades
I’m inspired by trailblazers in the building tradeswomen who have broken barriers and created space for others to follow. Tammy Rivera, the first female business agent for the New York District Council of Carpenters, represents what progress looks like in action. Another powerful example is Vicky O’Leary, an ironworker who has used her experience in the field to advocate for safety and stronger protections for women in construction. Her work reminds us that progress isn’t just about getting women into the trades—it’s about ensuring they can work safely, be respected, and truly thrive once they’re there.
Anita’s advice to other women:
To the next generation of tradeswomen: know that you belong in this industry. Your skill, determination, and perspective make the trades stronger. But just as important as learning the craft is building community with the women working beside you.
Julie Owens, Social Enterprise Greenhouse
Professionally, I must highlight Kelly Ramirez Stone, who preceded me as CEO of Social Enterprise Greenhouse. I vividly remember our first conversation, at the SEG Hub in Providence. After 25 years as a management consultant focused on health care systems, that conversation was a lightbulb moment: I could align my professional expertise in business strategy with my passion for social impact … through social enterprise. Now as CEO of SEG, I work every day with entrepreneurs who are building not just healthy businesses, but healthier communities. I’m grateful every day that this is the work I get to do.
Julie’s advice to other women:
1. When you feel completely over your head, recognize that as the sound of rapid growth. DO listen to it …and put in the work. But DON’T run from it.
2. Be proactive about networking—it is everything.
3. Stay curious. Really listen when people around you are talking. Ask questions when you have them. I love when people I work with ask questions, especially when they’re questioning assumptions or pushing for clarity. We all leave the room smarter.
