DFS Houston Ambassadors
YEmi
Yemi is a Nigerian immigrant. She dropped out of college to care for her three children and was devastated when she found herself as a single mother. Yemi landed a job in the healthcare industry after being referred to DFS Houston, where she says she received her “suit of armor.” Yemi, a Professional Women’s Group member, received the Altman-Goldstein scholarship for seven semesters while working on her associate degree in business administration with a focus on accounting from Houston Community College.
Salima
Salima was brought to tears by the welcome she received from the DFS Houston staff and volunteers when she first visited the agency. After finding a new role with support from Job Search workshops (sponsored by Chevron), Salima joined the Professional Women’s Group, participating in career development meetings, mentorship through One Year, One Job, (sponsored by PwC), and several other classes. She feels empowered with new confidence and improved health, which she attributes to the programming and her network of inspiring peers.
Felecia
Felecia credits her active participation in the Professional Women’s Group (PWG) with helping her to rebuild her confidence and enhance her communication skills after experiencing imposter syndrome. She completed PWG's Financial Literacy Series (sponsored by Christian Brothers Automotive) in 2022 and paid off her credit card debt in less than two years. Felicia also completed a two-year Professional MBA program in one year while working full-time.
Renae
Renae, a United States Air Force Veteran, hesitated to join DFS Houston’s Veterans program (sponsored by Halliburton) because she wasn’t actively looking for a job. Yet as she listened to women in her first workshop, she realized that their stories were hers and that she’d found a permanent community in Houston. Renae says DFS Houston gave her a place to connect and grow professionally and personally. She has participated in Veteran’s workshops, financial and legal literacy classes, and the physical fitness and wellness programs offered and earned an HR certification.
Marquitta
Marquitta graduated with a master’s degree in journalism in 2017 from Michigan State University and struggled to land a job in her industry. She found a “for now” job delivering groceries, injured her arm, and had to find a new role. She started taking advantage of the Job Search programs (presented by Chevron) and felt confident enough to launch her own business. Marquitta has a thriving graphic design company.
Berenice
Bernice was referred to DFS Houston and said she was wowed because she never expected to feel so welcomed or so empowered simply by wearing a professional suit. Berenice completed her certification and continued her involvement through the Professional Women’s Group, which she believes inspires women to become better versions of themselves. Berenice participates in the financial literacy classes that have helped her improve her credit status and mind/body classes that help her manage stress and improve her personal life. She has also participated in career counseling and legal literacy workshops.
Kim
Due to unforeseen circumstances, Kim lost her source of income, home, and car and was living in a women’s shelter when she was connected to DFS Houston. Kim says she didn’t have any preconceived notions; she just felt the need to keep attending. As she did, Kim strengthened her interview skills through the Job Search programs (presented by Chevron) and became more confident. When she secured a job, Kim joined the Professional Women’s Group, participating in mentorship programs and upskilling computer classes (sponsored by United). She received an Altman-Goldstein Scholarship to continue her professional education.
Carmen
Carmen struggled with depression and anxiety while actively searching for a job for three years. After a year and a half of struggling in her job search, she was referred to DFS Houston by WorkFaith Connection. Carmen received a suit, and despite setbacks, she kept moving forward. She landed a job with a psychiatric center – leading to her role as a staff assistant at Rice University, working with students who participate in their counseling, well-being, and SAFE services.
Tiffany
Tiffany is United States Army Veteran, a mom, and a survivor. Tiffany was seeking connection and community when she was introduced to DFS Houston at a Veteran’s event. Tiffany says that the Womens Veteran Program (sponsored by Halliburton) has provided her with amazing classes and opportunities that have empowered her professionally and personally. She has participated in Veteran’s workshops, mentoring, career development, financial literacy, and wellness classes. Her daughter Ti'Anna Smith received an Altman-Goldstein Scholarship that helped her to pursue her college degree.
Roxi
Roxi came to DFS Houston while preparing to interview for an internship. She felt supported and equipped to succeed after receiving a new suit and attending First Impressions interview preparation class. Roxi says when she stepped into the building, she felt special and cared for as an individual. “The staff had such positive energy. Being part of the Professional Women’s Group gives me a sense of belonging and community. I don’t feel alone on my journey, and I know other women can relate to what I am going through. It has been an incredible joy to be in the room with other women who want to see me succeed.”
Vanessa
Vanessa is a Veteran of the Marine Corps. When she left military service, Vanessa moved from California to Houston while struggling with depression and anxiety. Vanessa was searching for a sense of belonging when she was introduced to DFS Houston. Vanessa began her journey with Job Search workshops (presented by Chevron) and participated in Professional Women’s Group meetings and Veteran’s workshops (sponsored by Halliburton). This has helped her secure a job, improve her family’s financial situation, and open her mind to new possibilities. Vanessa says DFS Houston renewed her feeling of belonging that she experienced while serving in the Marines.