Her Story
About zurisaday
Zurisaday Briz is a dedicated social worker and community advocate based in Galveston, Texas. With 18 years of experience in outreach and social work, she focuses on providing cultural competence and humility to Hispanic families and underserved communities. Briz earned her Master's in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University in May and is currently preparing for her LMSW exam while planning to pursue her LCSW. Her professional journey includes roles in immigration law, clinical research, special education advocacy, food access, and behavioral health at a federally qualified health center in Southeast Houston. She is fluent in English and Spanish, offers cultural competency trainings and ESL classes, and has founded a support group for parents of children with disabilities. Briz has served on boards including Partners Resource Network, Vision Galveston, Houston Tool Bank, and the Family Service Center. Two years ago, she was recognized as one of Houston's 50 Most Influential Women by Houston's Women's Magazine. She attributes her success to her passion for elevating voices, building opportunities for Latinos and Hispanic professionals, and consistently showing up as her authentic self.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with zurisaday
01What do you attribute your success to?
My passion and commitment to elevating our voices. Our stories are worth celebrating. Always thinking outside the box, building our own table when not invited, and showing up consistently to create opportunities for Latinos and Hispanic professionals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Consistency and showing up as your authentic self. Enjoy the process and the journey. When you love what you do, you won't have to work a day in your life.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Gravitate towards the good and what brings you peace. We all have something meaningful to contribute. Focus on the goodness around you rather than the negative. Honor your ancestors, your families, and the communities that supported you by striving for excellence.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges include barriers like student loan politics for social work degrees that may discourage aspiring professionals, especially minority social workers. Opportunities lie in the flexibility of social work allowing focus on passionate areas like immigration, behavioral health, clinical practice across micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Cultural humility and respect for others' views. Leading by example as a role model for family and community, especially in difficult political climates. Being champions, partners, warriors, providers, resilient and loving parents who empower others.
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