Her Story
About Yahayra
Yahayra Stephany Mejorada is the founder of ImprovedM, a growth strategy consulting agency based in Morristown, New Jersey, where she helps leaders and organizations strengthen their positioning, build strategic partnerships, and accelerate growth. Her career spans economic development, strategic partnerships, nonprofit leadership, political consulting, disability services, and community development. She previously served as Deputy Department Head for the Executive Department of a New Jersey municipality, where she advanced cultural and gastrotourism initiatives, managed constituent affairs, and secured multiple grants for community projects, including trails and an innovative asphalt mural designed to promote pedestrian safety. Prior to founding ImprovedM, Mejorada spent 12 years as a political consultant and held progressively responsible roles in disability services, helping scale an agency from three clients to 300. She began her professional journey as a political canvasser while still in high school, an experience that helped shape her lifelong commitment to relationship building, service, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for connecting people and opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, securing resources, and transforming ideas into initiatives that create meaningful economic and community impact. Mejorada graduated cum laude from Morris County Community College with a degree in International Studies and later received a Presidential Merit Scholarship to attend Drew University, where she studied International Relations and Public Affairs. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic, she brings a multicultural perspective to her work and is passionate about helping leaders and organizations communicate their value and expand their impact. She attributes her success to the many mentors who have guided her throughout her life and career, learning from their unique strengths and incorporating those lessons into her own professional growth. Her commitment to volunteering, collaboration, and continuous learning continues to drive her work as a strategist, community leader, and advocate for opportunity.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Yahayra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the many mentors who have guided me throughout my career and the invaluable lessons I have learned from each of them. I have been fortunate to learn from their unique strengths, experiences, and “superpowers,” incorporating those insights into my own professional growth and development. Their guidance has helped me broaden my perspective, build confidence, and continuously strive to become a better leader and professional.
One mentor in particular is my late grandfather, Juan Mejorada. A self-made businessman, owner of chain hardware stores throughout Peru. He first raised capitol as a teen by capturing wild mules in his village and selling them off to construction sites in the city. He taught me about grit, inginuity and perseverance in business and in life. I was fortunate enough to be legally adopted into his family. I carry his last name with pride.
Fun fact: My last name literally translates to "Improved" in Spanish. I live it, and honor it the best way I can.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to recognize that everyone has biases and to approach opportunities with a mindset that begins with “yes.” This perspective has encouraged me to remain open-minded, challenge my own assumptions, embrace new experiences, and consider possibilities before dismissing them. Saying “yes” has allowed me to learn, grow, build meaningful relationships, and take advantage of opportunities that have shaped my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to build strong professional relationships, network intentionally, and volunteer whenever opportunities arise. Be willing to contribute, take initiative, and demonstrate your abilities, even when the opportunity may not initially seem directly connected to your goals. Your willingness to get involved and make a meaningful contribution will help you become recognized for your skills, dedication, and potential, ultimately opening the door to new opportunities.
04What 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 family, leadership, and service to others. I strive to be a positive peer leader by supporting, encouraging, and helping those around me, while remaining grounded in the importance of family and meaningful relationships. Being able to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to their growth and success is something I value deeply.
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