Cassandra Olaya, Food Access and Outreach Director on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Food justice reform

Cassandra Olaya

Food Access and Outreach Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South

MA

2017Years experience

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Bachelor's in Women and Gender Studies Degree Currently pursuing business administration and nonprofit management Cert Serve Safe Food Manager certification

Her Story

About Cassandra

I have been working in food justice reform and with the unhoused population for about 9 years. I grew up in a low-income urban city using WIC and SNAP benefits, which inspired me to give back to similar communities. My typical day involves cold calling community partners for inventory and running mobile pantries at multiple sites using what is essentially a food truck pantry. I am currently back in school pursuing business administration and nonprofit management.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Cassandra

01What do you attribute your success to?

Having integrity, being transparent and clear in my communication, and meeting people where they're at has been key to my success in the nonprofit world.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Never doubt myself as a woman. You are so intelligent, you are kind, you light up a room. Don't ever change who you are to fit in a room with people.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Never stop trying throughout your journey. With determination and hard work, your goals will get met. It just may not follow the timeline that you think.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The biggest challenge is communication and reach due to language and understanding barriers. The biggest opportunities come from building connections in communities, such as developing farmers markets and free fridge pantries.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Integrity, transparency, and just being kind. A big part of being in the nonprofit world is understanding and working with others, like meeting people where they're at.

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