Have you ever felt like no one understands you or your journey? If so, you’ll love today’s episode with Paulaska S. Ramirez, the Founder and Executive Director of Generation Fearless. Paulaska has devoted her life to uplifting and advocating for first-generation women, aiding them in navigating life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
She’s recognized as a trailblazer and a symbol of determination due to her unwavering commitment and contributions to the community, notably impacting society and inspiring other first-generation women to surmount hurdles and create positive change in their own lives and the lives of others.
In my interview with Paulaska, we explore her first-generation experience and explore why she founded Generation Fearless to help others navigate their journey. She shares why she was inspired to assist others, why having a space dedicated to first-generation individuals is crucial, and offers tips and resources to inspire us all.
Episode Highlights:
[01:30] Paulaska is a first-generation American and college graduate. She created Generation Fearless to provide a space for first-generation women to be seen and heard.
[02:28] After graduating from college, she realized that being first generation everything left a void on navigating life. This is why she wanted to create a space specifically for women to address the intersectionality of their identity.
[03:05] Challenges include high expectations and a high level of pressure. Paulaska isn't only opening the door for herself, she's also opening the door for her community.
[04:30] Paulaska talks about grasping and navigating cultural expectations that she felt.
[05:25] She talks about how it feels to be a woman of color walking into a space where no one looks like her.
[06:16] Handling the pressure of expectations. It's really been about finding what is important to Paulaska.
[07:29] Managing to balance it all. Paulaska is a mom, teacher, and Executive Director. She puts some things on simmer while the heat is on another area.
[09:00] There isn't enough acknowledgment that a first-generation experience transcends college space.
[11:21] She started her own nonprofit because she felt a personal responsibility to help other people figure out the things that she had to figure out on her own.
[14:49] Providing holistic support for women as they navigate the reality of the world is the goal of Generation Fearless.
[15:14] Paulaska shares a fearless conversation with family and connections.
[16:30] Advice to her younger self includes starting Generation Fearless earlier. Not everyone is going to see your vision, so follow your gut.
[17:12] Paulaska shares her big dream of supporting first-generation women with their dreams.
[18:54] Understand who you are and what is important to you.
[19:29] Paulaska shares how to access Generation Fearless resources.
Links and Resources:
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