Her Story
About Angelica
Angelica Iglesias is the United Nations representative for the Salesian Missions, representing the Salesians of Don Bosco order in the NGO arena at the UN. Her professional journey began in the mid-1990s when, as an immigrant to the United States, she started working in an immigration attorney's office. She identified a path into church work focused on empowering young people and began her ministry at the Diocese of St. Petersburg in the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, later serving as executive secretary to Bishop Lynch for 11 years and then as director of Hispanic Ministry. She subsequently worked in humanitarian and development efforts with Catholic Relief Services before assuming her current role. Iglesias is a dedicated relationship builder skilled at accompanying local communities, empowering youth to develop their leadership and voice, and advocating for the rights and needs of communities in over 130 countries where the Salesian Missions operate. She serves as a Salesian cooperator and as a board member of the Justice Coalition of Religious at the UN (JCOR) and Religious at the UN (RUN).
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Angelica
01What do you attribute your success to?
Pure heart and dedication! Staying positive and never giving up!
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Let things unfold!
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be true to yourself and always treat others with respect and compassion. Have the courage to advocate for what is right, even when it is difficult. Lead with love, enjoy life, and remember to smile more. Take your responsibilities seriously, but not so seriously that you forget to appreciate the joy, beauty, and blessings around you. Never forget where you came from, the people who helped shape you, and most importantly, remember that you are never alone on this journey.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Callenges today include the rapid development of AI, which brings tremendous benefits but also raises serious concerns about its potential impact on humanity and human dignity. Other challenges include consumerism that often overlooks environmental consequences and the needs of others; limited opportunities for young people to express themselves, participate, and take on leadership roles; and the lack of education and basic resources, such as clean water and adequate food, in the communities we serve.
At the same time, these challenges present important opportunities to advocate for human rights, accompany and listen to communities, protect and promote human dignity, empower young people to become leaders, and strengthen local economies so communities can build sustainable and hopeful futures.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Dedication, hard work, honesty, and a deep commitment to family, all grounded in faith. Learning and strive to do better each day. I try to learn from others, and from the good and difficult experiences I had along the way. I try to listen and accompany others in their journeys. I strive to give 110% to everything I do, not simply for personal success, but for a greater purpose—so that others can have the opportunity to shine, reach their full potential, and live lives of dignity and in peace.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.