Today we’d like to introduce you to Mayra E Pineda Zavala
Hi Mayra E, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a child growing up in Guerrero, Mexico, I never knew how far I would go. One day life changed, my family and I would cross the border and start new in California. Life did not go as planned for my mother who became a single parent of 7 kids in 1992. I grew up in Los Angeles and San Bernardino, I was part of a diverse community. Learned English gradually at school and became aware of how tough life can be when you are part of survival and poverty. At the age of 14 our family moved to GA, then at 19 years old we moved to Tennessee. I moved to Cleveland Tn with the dream of becoming an integral part of a not so much diverse community. I was eager to make a big impact. I was learning to navigate different systems to learn about the needs of our Latino community, for 20 years I have been a point of contact for Latinos from Chattanooga to Knoxville to resolve language barriers, navigation of services, and access to resources. Recently, I joined a non-profit organization and had the privilege to be a children’s Advocate in Juvenile Court in Bradley county. I decided to start my own company MP Services in 2021 to work very close with our community to distribute resources, resolve language barriers and much more. At this moment, I am a Navigator with an excellent company called In The Door, I manage diverse groups of people and implement solutions to individuals in need of seeking services from the TN Department of Labor. I have been honored with the privilege to serve the people, I am grateful to serve and to aide those in need.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Some of the major struggles of working with our community has been the lack of awareness of the public about those with immigrant needs and services. Lack of awareness of needs in general of those stricken with poverty or homelessness, mental health needs and disabilities.
Personal struggles have been the burnout I experience at times when working with whole systems and the public in general.
Also, resistance to change from the people in power, some are skeptical or fear change.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The role of a navigator in the context of community service typically involves guiding individuals or groups through complex systems, processes, or challenges to help them achieve their goals. It involves establishing good relationships with the individuals that are being assisted, understanding their needs, concerns, and goals. I am constantly presenting advocacy for the individuals in my community ensuring they receive fair treatment, access to necessary services, and opportunities for empowerment. I am known at my current role for being patient, kind and compassionate to others.
I am most proud of the person I have become over the past few years, I have experienced growth through showing care and compassion for others.
What sets me apart from others is that I will not give up on the individuals I serve, I am passionate about the work I do and I relate to those in need understanding where they are and motivating them to pursue their dreams to the best of their abilities.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I am a curious learner. I am detailed and organically moderated. I adapt to changes with flexibility and have a go getter attitude. I take the initiative and anything I do is an opportunity for me to glorify my God.
