Her Story
About Alexandra
Alexandra Vidal is the CEO and founder of her own nonprofit organization, Aquis A Puede (Cue It's Possible), a role she has held for the past three months. With six years of experience in the nonprofit sphere, she specializes in workforce development, creating economic pathways for young adults impacted by the justice system, and nonprofit governance and compliance. Alexandra earned her bachelor's degree from Rutgers University in 2019, where she studied political science and history with a minor in Middle Eastern Studies. She has also completed the Eagleton Fellowship, which led to an internship at the New Jersey Department of Labor, the Rice Fellowship at the Institute of Nonprofit Practice (graduated June), and an NYU fellowship for Global Public Affairs. In addition to her professional work, she volunteers as a mentor for first-generation college students through American Needs and serves as Global Operations Manager for Flunt Hall (Sonthall), a Nigeria-based technology education organization expanding to the United States.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alexandra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to luck, having a strong support system from family and friends that allows me to be creative and take risks without fear of failure, and being tenacious and comfortable being uncomfortable. This safety net has enabled me to start my own organization and pursue new opportunities.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was from my mentor Ellie: Always ask. Closed mouths don't get fed. Always ask for the favor, ask the question, don't be afraid to ask or put yourself out there. I immediately applied it by asking her to be my mentor and she said yes.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be audacious. As a woman, you're conditioned to make yourself smaller or ask for permission, but men don't have that conditioning. Be okay going to networking opportunities on your own, lean into what you're passionate about, don't be afraid to hear no or feel rejection.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is the impact of the economy on nonprofits, leading to layoffs and talented people leaving for more stable for-profit work, resulting in loss of institutional knowledge. The opportunity is to be intentional about creating entry-level positions and internships so the next generation can join and bring freshness and creativity.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being present is most important to me. Whether in personal or professional life, try to really enjoy the moment, whether a victory or not your best moment, and learn from it. This keeps me aligned with my morals and values, ensuring I make the best decisions for my mental health and future.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.