Her Story
About Charmain
Charmain is a passionate advocate for social impact whose career reflects a commitment to empowering vulnerable populations and creating pathways to stability and success. As a Housing Solutions Case Manager in Orange County, California, she works directly with individuals and families experiencing homelessness, helping them overcome barriers such as domestic violence, poverty, mental health challenges, substance abuse, evictions, and child welfare involvement. Through a client-centered approach grounded in cultural humility and compassionate care, Charmain has played a key role in helping dozens of individuals and families secure and maintain stable housing while connecting them to resources that support long-term independence.
Before entering the nonprofit sector, Charmain built a diverse professional background that showcased her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. She served as Head Chef and Kitchen Manager at Wild Rivers Waterpark in Irvine, where she led culinary operations and team management while delivering exceptional guest experiences. She also founded B Sassy 2 Cosmetics, a handmade skincare and cosmetics business that achieved six-figure revenue within four months through strategic social media marketing and content creation on platforms such as TikTok and Facebook. These experiences strengthened her skills in leadership, innovation, operations, and community engagement.
Dedicated to lifelong learning and public service, Charmain is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at the University of Southern California after earning three degrees. Her aspirations extend beyond social work into the legal field, where she plans to attend law school and advocate for families and underserved communities. An emerging thought leader, she has authored commentary on community development and infrastructure issues and remains actively engaged in conversations surrounding social justice and systemic change. Through her work, education, and advocacy, Charmain continues to inspire change by combining compassion, determination, and a vision for a more equitable future.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Charmain
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, perseverance, faith, self-discipline, and the support of the people who have encouraged me throughout my journey. Overcoming personal adversity has strengthened my determination and deepened my commitment to helping others transform their lives. I am proud of building B Sassy 2 Cosmetics into a six-figure business within four months, as well as overcoming homelessness, reuniting with my children and grandchildren, earning multiple college degrees, and being accepted into the University of Southern California’s Master of Social Work program. Today, I serve as a Housing Solutions Case Manager, helping individuals experiencing homelessness secure permanent housing and access critical support services, while also pursuing my MSW and preparing to relaunch my cosmetics business.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received has come from my brother, a professor at George Washington University. His discipline, focus, and commitment to lifelong learning have inspired me to stay dedicated to my goals and continually strive for growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take care of yourself first. Make sure you're mentally stable. Have a good support system. Burnout is real in this field.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the emotional toll of the work, as professionals often support individuals facing complex and difficult circumstances. At the same time, there is a growing opportunity to strengthen community resources and advocate for greater investment in services that create lasting, positive outcomes for those in need.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide my life and work are compassion, resilience, service, faith, self-care, and perseverance. I am passionate about empowering others to achieve independence and believe everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. Outside of work, I enjoy biking, fishing, spending time outdoors, caring for my dogs, and making lasting memories with my grandchildren, while remaining committed to helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency and strengthening the communities I serve.
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