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Mara Cerezo
Equitable Workforce Development Strategist - Partnership Builder - Grant Writer - Social Change Leader
Professional Background
Mara Cerezo stands as a leading figure in the realm of youth and community development, showcasing over 15 years of dedicated experience advocating for young adults from low-income communities. With a rich tapestry of roles throughout her career, Mara has passionately designed and implemented innovative employment strategies that effectively respond to the needs of both young adults and employers. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her strategic insights, has established her as a change leader capable of driving impactful community-focused programs.
As a Senior Program Officer at Green City Force, Mara effectively propelled organizational strategies, people management, and program evaluation, all while maintaining a deep commitment to youth empowerment and equitable job opportunities. Her previous roles include Director of Career and Alumni Services, where she nurtured connections between students and the workforce, and Executive Director of Woodlawn Community Development Corporation, where she played a crucial role in developing and executing programs that elevated community engagement and support.
With extensive experience in human resources, program development, and organizational strategy, Mara has cultivated a detail-oriented and analytical approach to her work. She thrives in collaborative environments and is adept at establishing value-based relationships with diverse audiences. This emotional intelligence allows her to negotiate and engage seamlessly with both internal and external partners, ensuring collective goals are met efficiently and effectively.
Throughout her illustrious career, Mara has emerged as a skilled speaker on topics such as youth development, green workforce strategies, and equitable hiring practices. Notable speaking engagements include contributions at esteemed forums and conferences, where she has disseminated her insights and strategies to foster inclusive economies and robust workforce development.
Education and Achievements
Mara’s educational journey laid a solid foundation for her impactful career, beginning with her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from Brown University. This prestigious institution equipped her with critical thinking skills and a broad understanding of societal dynamics, which she later complemented with further studies at Baruch College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY). Mara's academic background has undoubtedly contributed to her success in influencing community development and youth-centric employment initiatives.
Her achievements extend beyond her job titles; she has been pivotal in raising awareness and creating opportunities for young adults through various engaging programs and strategic initiatives. As an inspirational leader, Mara continuously advocates for the importance of equity in hiring practices and emphasizes the integration of green jobs in the current labor market.
Notable Speaking Engagements
Mara's expertise has led her to be featured in numerous esteemed speaking engagements across the country. Some of the highlighted sessions include:
- “Exploring Workforce Development Needs and Resources for a Decarbonized Built Environment” at NYSERDA in May 2020, where her insights helped shape discussions around the green economy.
- “A Public Future for Sunnyside Yard: Green Building and a Transition to a Green Economy” at the NY Building Congress in February 2020, showcasing her commitment to sustainable practices.
- “Training and Retraining a Diverse Solar Workforce” at the Solar Power Northeast Regional Conference in February 2019, where she discussed the significance of inclusivity in green jobs.
- “Burning Questions Impacting Business Engagement Strategies” at the National Youth Employment Coalition in December 2018, emphasizing the need for collaborative approaches to youth employment.
- “Anchor Partners in Building an Inclusive Green Economy” at the NYCETC Building Talent Pipelines for Today’s Economy in September 2017, where she underscored partnerships' vital role in creating pathways for youth.
- “Growing Your Skills for the Green Economy” during JobsFirstNYC's event Adapting to the Future of Work in July 2017, highlighting her dedication to equipping youth with marketable skills.
- “Working with Adjudicated Youth” at the New England Consortium of Artist Educator Professionals in June 2006, marking her longstanding commitment to diverse youth engagement.
Mara Cerezo’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of young adults, coupled with her innovative strategies in workforce development, positions her as a formidable leader in the field. With a robust background grounded in education, extensive professional experience, and notable public speaking engagements, she continues to inspire countless individuals and organizations to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Her journey is a testament to the power of passion coupled with purpose, where intention meets action to effectuate meaningful change.
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