We interviewed our very own Nelly Waziri on her career journey for tips and tricks just for you!

Nelly Waziri - Center Operations Coordinator, New Site Growth

What were your previous roles and experiences like?

My experience includes Childhood Education and various Retail opportunities. I obtained my degree in Child and Adolescent Development and worked at KinderCare Life Connections, where I was a Head Teacher.

Then I worked as a Lead Specialist in Dispute Management at Poshmark. I learned a great deal about business operations and overall customer satisfaction.

After moving from the Bay Area to Portland, I decided to venture back to my roots of Childhood Education. I joined Champions in 2018 as a Site Director and soon after added the role of Field Coach for my area.

How did you make this switch, and how did your company support you in this process (e.g., culture, manager support, mentors, programs etc.)?

My goal joining any company is to stay long-term. The same applied when I joined Champions. Once all schools began to return to in-person learning, I expressed my interest in venturing in a new role to my Area Manager and Regional Manager. My Area Manager, Jessica Hamilton was beyond supportive and provided so many tools for my success.

I continued to look at postings on the career page and came across the Coordinator role on the New Site Growth Team. I recalled I had met Ashley Hampton, the Program Manager of the team during a hiring event we both attended for Champions in 2019. I reached out to her via email and asked if she could discuss the position. After the conversation, I knew this was the role. I submitted my resume and proceeded with the interview process. I was beyond grateful and excited when I was offered the role.

What do you find most rewarding and challenging about your current work?

Initially, my transition to working in the field to at home was a challenge. I was required to adjust to not traveling to sites or being in ratio and present with staff and students. Although my environment changed, my service values and goals remained same. People were such an important aspect of my day-to-day and I knew this would continue with my current team. Our goal is to support and partner with the field.

Looking back on your career, what would you say has been your most valuable career mistake?

My biggest regret is not believing in my skills and ability. I look back on my career and realize that I held back in some respects relating to my confidence. In all my positions, I go above and beyond my expected duties and should have realized my worth.

What is your best piece(s) of advice for other women who are thinking about making a career pivot?

Never doubt yourself or be afraid to take risks.