Her Story
About Nadine
I run Naissance Place, a nonprofit for children on the autism spectrum providing support services and resources all year round for families in underserved inner-city communities. I was previously a manager in the banking industry at Citibank for almost 20 years before leaving to create the nonprofit after my son was diagnosed with autism. I went back to school later in life and earned a bachelor's degree in business management and marketing from Felician College.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nadine
01What do you attribute your success to?
My faith, number one. And then my mother. My mother was one of the strongest women that I've ever known. Because of her upbringing and her example of what giving back to your community and helping others, it prepared me well for my journey of giving back.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Stay true to yourself. Never let anyone take you from what your dreams are, and stay focused on what your mission is.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be patient. Nothing's gonna happen overnight. Stay true to what your goals are, stay true to who you are. Be steadfast on your mission, your journey, and stay true to you. I always lean on my faith.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Biggest challenge is getting funding to come back down into our community for grassroots organizations in black and brown underserved inner-city families. Another challenge is the higher staffing needs and costs for children with special needs compared to typical children while maintaining quality of care.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty. Compassion. Understanding. Because you never know what someone is going through. Just be kind all the time. Make sure that you're there to support people. Uplift them.
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