Her Story
About Brigitte
Brigitte JeanLouis is a dedicated nonprofit professional with eight years of experience, including four years on the social service side at YWCA Princeton. In her role, she focuses on racial justice, gender equity, civic engagement, and legislation, while also overseeing the marketing department and managing interns. She completed her bachelor's degree in communication studies from Kean University during the pandemic after earlier studies at Rutgers University in broadcast journalism. Brigitte serves as Director of Digital Communication for New Jersey Young Democrats and has achieved notable successes such as completing a full website migration and bringing Dr. Roxane Gay as a guest speaker. As a first-generation Haitian American with immigrant parents from Haiti, she attributes her perseverance to her family and is passionate about coaching youth volleyball.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Brigitte
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from my family, especially my parents who are immigrants from Haiti. They uprooted their lives for my potential. I also think of my four nieces, young women of color, who are watching me. The quote 'you didn't come this far to only come this far' motivates me to keep persevering and be the best version of myself for them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be authentic in your connections and not be afraid to lean into them when you need to, whether looking for another position or connecting to different services.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Remember to give yourself grace. Nonprofit work is difficult and it's easy to feel hopeless, so have a hobby to debrief and take time for yourself. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so figure out what you need to fill your own cup to come back with a clear mind.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges include the changing landscape under the current federal administration where priorities don't align with our organization's mission of racial justice and women's empowerment, affecting funding. Opportunities exist in engaging youth, such as a new New Jersey bill allowing 17-year-olds to vote in primaries, and connecting young people to organizations and voter information.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity is the biggest value in both work and personal life. In the nonprofit realm, it's obvious if someone is not authentic in their partnership or pursuit of the mission to eliminate racism and empower women. As a young woman of color, I love showing up authentically myself every day, whether wearing my hair in braids or straight, which opens doors for others to feel that way too.
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