Name and Title:
Mónica Diaz, Administrative Manager.
How long have you worked at RYSE?
I started working at RYSE in June 2011, so soon to be 7 years.
How did you first hear about RYSE and why did you choose to get involved?
I first heard about RYSE my senior year of high school through a friend who was a youth member at the time. I chose to get involved because RYSE was different. The ambience, the programs, and the staff were all so welcoming and caring something I wasn't used to. Before coming here I did not know what social justice work meant or how systems of oppression played a big role in my life and in the way things are set up. RYSE gave me the tools I needed to empower, express, and love myself.
As the Administrative Manager, what do you do?
As the Administrative Manager I manage the organization’s facility operations, vendors, and assist the Executive Director.
What do you love most about your job?
I love how RYSE values youth voices. Since day one youth have been at the table working in partnership with adults making decisions for the organization. I appreciate that even though I don’t work with youth one on one anymore they still come in my office to say hello and have a quick chat, it warms my heart. I feel enormously grateful to be able to share a space with so many talented staff and youth who inspire my personal growth. I love my job because of the people who are a part of it.
If you had to describe RYSE in three words, what would they be and why?
FUN, RESILIENT, LOVE
If you had any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would have the power to time travel. Since a kid I’ve watched movies about time travel and it just seems so cool. I don’t know where I would go first though still thinking about that…
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