Guido Gonzalez / Assistant Entertainment Director
The second installment for the webinar series, “Women Empowerment: A Collection of Their Journeys,” discussed the career paths, along with the triumphs and hardships, of its panelists.
The event was sponsored by the Student Government Association and hosted on Zoom Wednesday, Nov. 18 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The discussion featured director of FIU’s women’s center, councilwoman and mother, Dr. Nashira Williams, along with the deputy editor of magazine, “Marie Clair,” Danielle McNally.
Also present was SGA president, Alexandra Valdez, who moderated the discussion and provided the guests with questions regarding gender in a workplace environment.
After formal introductions, the discussion began with entering a male-dominated business environment, an intimidating experience at first for Williams and McNally.
Despite the curveball thrown at them, both women quickly learned to both stand up for themselves and rely on others when necessary. They both advised participants to seek a mentorship.
“It’s important to have these connections” McNally said, “[but] you have to advocate for yourself in the workplace.”
McNally knew she wanted to be involved in writing since she was very young. “I planned what I wanted to do since I was very young,” she said, “five years, ten years, fifteen years.”
For Williams, it took her a little longer to find an interest in a career in education.
After the discussion, the remaining time was dedicated to answering questions from the chat box, one standout question for the panelists was balancing their careers with their personal lives.
Balancing their careers with their personal lives was another thing both panelists found to be difficult at times. Though, that’s not to say there aren’t any worthwhile moments
“I have a daughter going through the same degree program,” Williams said, “[though] there’s just no way to prepare for it.”
McNally also had to push back her wedding an entire year due to work and the ongoing Covid pandemic.
Despite the occasional obstacles, both McNally and Williams are both content with their success and advised having the right attitude, level of trust, and determination before signing off.
“Women Empowerment” is a six-part web series, with its third installment coming out on in early January.
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