Her Story
About Gladys
Gladys Calatayud-Vargas serves as an Emotional Wellness Coach and Career Coach, bringing together more than a decade of experience in life coaching, mental wellness support, and career development. She has spent four years as a Career Coach with the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation, where she helps individuals identify career pathways, develop professional skills, and connect with opportunities aligned with their goals and aspirations. As a certified career coach, PhD coach, and community specialist, Gladys supports clients in discovering their strengths, overcoming personal barriers, building confidence, and achieving meaningful professional and personal growth.
Gladys holds a degree in Business Administration from a university in Caracas, Venezuela, and has earned additional professional certifications from institutions in Florida. Before transitioning into workforce development, she served as Director of Housing for twelve years, leading shelter operations and providing critical support services for young adults and members of the LGBTQ community. Her work has been centered on advocacy, empowerment, and creating supportive environments where individuals can overcome challenges and build brighter futures. She also collaborates with organizations such as MoveHair 360 and Talita Kumi to inspire and empower women to embrace leadership and pursue their ambitions.
Throughout her career, Gladys has been guided by her passion for helping others transform their lives. She attributes her success to the love and encouragement of her family, children, and a global network of supportive friends. She believes in following one’s dreams, embracing personal passions, and encouraging women to recognize their potential as leaders. Outside of her professional work, Gladys enjoys spending time with her two children, cooking, hiking with her family, and caring for animals, including a turtle she rescued seventeen years ago. Having lived in the United States for thirty-three years and being bilingual in Spanish and English, she continues to dedicate herself to helping others overcome limitations, build confidence, and achieve their goals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gladys
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering love and support of my family, my children, and the incredible friends I have gained from around the world. Their encouragement, shared dreams, and belief in my abilities have inspired me to overcome challenges, face my fears, and continue pursuing growth both personally and professionally. Their support has been a constant source of motivation, reminding me of the importance of resilience, connection, and staying committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to follow my dreams and pursue my passions with confidence and determination. Throughout my journey, I have learned the importance of believing in my own abilities and embracing opportunities to grow as a leader. As women, especially those from cultures where we are often encouraged to follow rather than lead, it is essential to recognize our voices, strengths, and potential. I am passionate about empowering women to step forward, embrace leadership, and create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are love, compassion, family, and a commitment to helping others. Being a mother to my two children has been one of my greatest joys and has taught me the importance of patience, resilience, and unconditional support. I value creating meaningful connections with others and bringing kindness and empathy into everything I do. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy cooking, hiking with my family, and caring for animals. I am also a proud animal lover and rescued a turtle 17 years ago that continues to be part of my family. Having lived in the United States for 33 years and speaking Spanish at home, I value my cultural heritage and the importance of embracing diversity, connection, and community.
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