NyEla Pete
NyEla Pete is a Psychological Science major with a Computer Science minor at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans. She is a dedicated student with a strong passion for youth mental health advocacy, particularly focused on supporting young Black children. Inspired by her experiences in high school during times of social and racial tension, as well as the guidance of her school social worker, NyEla discovered her calling in psychology through her desire to ensure that children feel heard, supported, and understood. She is committed to breaking down stigma surrounding mental health and promoting early intervention and care for children in crisis.
Alongside her academic studies, NyEla has built meaningful experience in education and mentorship roles. She currently serves as a Supplemental Instructor at Xavier University, where she facilitates review sessions, develops study materials, and provides one-on-one academic support to help students succeed. She also works as a student employee supporting computer lab operations and technical needs. In addition, she previously served as a Group Leader and Instructor at the University of California, Berkeley, where she supervised youth learning groups and ensured a safe, engaging environment for participants.
NyEla is also deeply engaged in community service and leadership development. She volunteers with organizations such as Queens, STEM NOLA, and Play Like a Girl, where she mentors and teaches young students through academic support, STEM activities, and empowerment programs. Her involvement reflects her commitment to education, confidence-building, and youth development. She is also an inductee of the National Society of Leadership and Success and the National Society of Black Women in Medicine. NyEla’s long-term goal is to become a child psychologist within the next five years, continuing her mission to advocate for children’s mental health and well-being.
• National Society of Leadership and Success
• National Society of Black Women in Medicine
• Queens
• STEM NOLA
• Play Like a Girl
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family, who have profoundly shaped my values and resilience. My grandmother taught me compassion through her consistent selflessness and care for others, regardless of circumstance. My mother has been an incredible example of strength and dedication, continuing to support and care for family even while facing serious health challenges of her own. My father has provided steady guidance and encouragement, helping me stay focused on my goals while sharing insights from his background in psychology and case management. Their unwavering belief in me and the way they lead by example have been the foundation of my growth and success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to be intentional about balancing growth with self-care. While it’s important to absorb new knowledge and support others, it’s equally important to prioritize your own mental and emotional well-being. The work can be demanding, so it’s essential not to let it become overwhelming. Give yourself permission to pause, step away when needed, and take short breaks to reset. I’m still learning how to navigate moments of overwhelm myself, but I’ve found that protecting my weekends and intentionally carving out time for rest during lighter moments in the week makes a meaningful difference in maintaining balance and resilience.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the ongoing stigma that can lead to children and young people not being fully heard or taken seriously during mental health crises, which can delay timely and effective support. At the same time, the work places a significant emotional toll on those in behavioral health and youth-serving roles, with burnout being a real concern. These challenges also present an important opportunity to strengthen early intervention systems, expand trauma-informed care, and better support the well-being of both the individuals we serve and the professionals doing this critical work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are communication and consideration. As I continue to grow and figure out my path as a young woman, I’ve come to see these as foundational principles that guide how I interact with others and make decisions. I’ve especially learned the importance of consideration from my grandmother, who consistently cares for others regardless of her own circumstances or how she is treated in return. These values shape not only my personal relationships but also my approach to my career in psychology, where empathy, clear communication, and understanding are essential.
Locations
Xavier University of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA 70112