Her Story
About Enjolie
Enjolie Cetinkaya began her advocacy work at the age of 16 while living with her mother after her parents' divorce. As a neurodivergent individual, she faced challenges in school systems with limited support and started advocating for herself, which led her to support others facing similar issues. She attempted to implement a mental health club in high school and spoke to school officials, eventually expanding her efforts to city councils and local communities after some initial rejections. In college, Cetinkaya joined youth councils and advocacy groups, focusing on mental health, LGBTQ issues, and youth justice. She has been recognized by the city and state, San Diego Pride, and Cleaner Academy for her contributions, and she has supported the Arts and the Child Office in San Diego while participating in programs for incarcerated youth. Cetinkaya is involved with the LGBT Center in San Diego, South Bay and Hillcrest Youth Centers, San Diego Youth Services, Urban Street Angels, Mid City Cannes, and Bendigo Pride, all on a volunteer basis. She values kindness and honesty in her work and personal life, and she advises starting small when advocating, such as at school, before building up to larger efforts. Cetinkaya plans to start her own nonprofit called Fight For Your Rights to educate youth on self-advocacy.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Enjolie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I really owe it to the people that I supported and who supported me. Definitely to all the people that need support. If it wasn't for my social workers, I wouldn't be where I am today.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't take the first [option]. Experiences is what makes life better. Think of everything as an experience, whether it is a gain or a loss, it's still an experience, you're still learning from something.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Start small and build up. You don't have to advocate to the city or the whole world. Start by advocating to your teachers or school. Even professionals have some kind of fear and it's completely okay. Work with what you can.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is trying to reach out because nonprofits go to the same places over and over. They need to branch out and get more exposure. It's a give and take with funds and helping more people.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Definitely kindness, definitely honesty. Without kindness you can't really move forward, and without honesty you won't build trust, and having trust is the most important part.
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