A Journey of Growth and Belonging: How Sara Found Her Place with NWNY

Moving to a new country can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing motherhood, career aspirations, and the desire to belong. For one woman, joining New Women New Yorkers became the turning point in her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. From feeling isolated during the pandemic to becoming an active volunteer supporting fellow immigrant women, Sara’s story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the transformative impact of NWNY’s programs. Here, she shares her experiences, the meaningful connections she’s built, and how she’s giving back to the city that she now calls home.

1. Can you share what inspired you to join New Women New Yorkers, and what your experience as a participant was like?

I discovered NWNY while searching for resources to help me rebuild my life and career. Becoming a mother for the first time during the pandemic had been an isolating experience—both physically and mentally—due to the lockdown in Italy. During that period, my son became my entire world and I often felt disconnected and alone. When we moved to NYC, I was excited about the possibilities but also overwhelmed by the challenges of starting over in a new city. I deeply felt the need for a community where I could belong and grow—both personally and professionally—as I missed working and wanted to rediscover myself, not just as a mother but as a new woman. Joining the LEAD program was transformative. It showed me that I wasn’t alone in facing challenges. The program helped me feel confident speaking in English, understand that my voice counts, and believe in my ability to achieve my goals. It taught me that every small step matters and reminded me that I deserve to contribute to this society too. Surrounded by a supportive community of women with similar experiences, I felt uplifted and empowered to embrace this new chapter of my life.

2. What motivated you to become a volunteer with NWNY after completing the program?

After completing the LEAD program, I felt deeply grateful for all that NWNY had given me, and during my time as a mentee in the group mentoring program, I decided to become a volunteer to give back. My passion for education and my experience as a teacher played a big role in motivating me. I love offering guidance, sharing resources, and creating opportunities for others to feel empowered. Volunteering with NWNY became the perfect opportunity to use my knowledge and experiences to help other immigrant women navigate their challenges. It has also been an incredible chance to connect with people from different countries and backgrounds, learn from their stories, and grow alongside them. Each interaction has enriched my life and strengthened my belief in the power of community and mutual support.

3. Over the past year as a volunteer, what have been the most meaningful moments or experiences for you?

There have been so many meaningful moments, but one that stands out was helping coordinate the community resource fair for migrant families. Seeing more than 180 attendees, volunteers, and partners come together to share resources and support was incredibly inspiring. It reminded me of the power of connection and how much we can achieve when we work together. Another highlight has been leading community members through the process of obtaining their credential evaluations using the WES voucher offered by NWNY. Guiding them step-by-step and witnessing their progress was incredibly rewarding. I saw firsthand the impact of my work and dedication, as it opened new opportunities for them and gave them a sense of accomplishment.

Last but not least, one of the most meaningful moments has been working with my supervisor, Talita. I always felt supported and valued for my ideas, creativity, and proactive approach. This made my experience as a volunteer so much more than just giving back—it motivated me to continue growing, learning, and finding new ways to contribute. These experiences have truly enriched my journey and deepened my passion for support.

4. How has being a part of the NWNY community impacted your personal or professional growth?

Being part of NWNY has completely transformed me. On a personal level, it gave me the courage to embrace my identity as a mom, an immigrant, and a professional. Professionally, it provided me with invaluable skills, from event coordination to resource management, and helped me build a network in my new city. NWNY gave me the tools and confidence to explore a new career path, blending my teaching background with my passion for community support. Throughout my career, I have always focused on building authentic relationships and creating a learning environment not only for my students but also for their parents. I remember one mother who was struggling with a sense of guilt because her job kept her from spending as much time as she wanted with her daughter. I shared with her something her daughter had said while playing: how proud she was of her mom and how much she cherished the moments they spent reading together before bed. The mother thanked me for sharing that — it made her feel better and reminded her that children treasure the quality of time spent together, not just the quantity. This memory stuck with me, and through NWNY, I realized how much I value empowering others and creating meaningful connections. This experience has not only strengthened my skills but also given me clarity and confidence in my professional goals. I’m now more certain than ever that I want to work in roles that empower others and provide meaningful resources. For this reason, I plan to apply for the NYSPEP Parenting Educator Credential, so I can continue supporting families and facilitating the growth and development of parents through education and support.

5. What advice would you give to immigrant women looking to grow and thrive in New York City?

Believe in yourself, ask for help, and put yourself out there. New York City can feel overwhelming, but there are so many organizations and communities ready to support you — just like NWNY. Take small steps every day, be open to learning, and remember that your journey is unique. Celebrate your progress and know that you’re never alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you, and lean on them as a support system. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone — it’s often where the greatest growth happens. Say YES to new opportunities, and you’ll surprise yourself with how far you’ve come when you look back. Embrace the new you and take care of her!

6. Do you have a favorite Italian spot in New York that makes you feel at home?

I don’t have a favorite Italian spot yet, but the pizza at Ribalta, a cozy Italian place near Union Square, always makes me think about how much I miss Italian food! There is also a little green market every Saturday near my house that brings back cherished childhood memories of going to the market with my mom and sister. It’s a comforting tradition that reminds me of home. What I love most about NYC is that there’s always someone who’s visited Italy — whether it’s the woman at the market, the person in line at the post office, or someone reminiscing about their honeymoon in my country. Those conversations remind me of how much I love and am proud of where I come from. It’s heartwarming to see how Italy holds a special place in so many people’s hearts, even across the ocean.

7. When do you feel like you’ve truly become a New Yorker, and what does that mean to you?

I felt like I truly became a New Yorker the first time I navigated the city with confidence—finding my way on the subway, juggling errands, and embracing the city’s rhythm. It was a moment when I realized I wasn’t just visiting anymore; I was part of the energy and diversity that makes New York unique. For me, being a New Yorker is about belonging and creating a life that feels authentically yours in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. It’s about connecting with people from all over the world and finding your own place in the city’s vastness. One way I’ve done this is by embracing the idea of solo date nights. A solo date is an intentional activity you do alone — just you, your thoughts, and the city. The key is the intention behind it. At first, it felt a bit awkward to go out on my own, but it quickly became a way for me to step out of my comfort zone and prioritize my relationship with myself. I began to explore the city with fresh eyes, visiting museums, trying new coffee shops, and enjoying cultural events. These moments of solitude helped me feel more connected to myself and more at home in New York. Solo dates taught me to appreciate my own company and gave me the courage to discover the city on my terms. They’ve been a reminder that in a city as vast and dynamic as New York, there’s so much to discover — not just about the city but about yourself as well. It’s about finding the balance between connection and individuality, and fully embracing the unique journey of building a life here.

Being part of NWNY and embracing life in NYC has been an incredible journey of growth, connection, and self-discovery. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to give back and support others in their journeys, and I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and building meaningful connections within this vibrant community. As I look ahead, I’m inspired to keep empowering others, sharing my experiences, and contributing to the city that has become my home. New York City has given me so much, and I’m eager to see how I can continue to give back and make a difference in this amazing place.