We had some of our SSP team members answer why they have chosen their current roles and the question: what woman inspires you? Keep reading to get to know them and why they do what they do!
Anna Cantirino, Engagement Manager
“My entire life I have felt called to work in some realm of education. I have been a classroom teacher, and a school counselor. I have also realized that half of the schools I have worked in were nonprofit schools. SSP is an educational non-profit and this stuck out to me, as it related my passions: educational work, and working for advancement of students within my native city, NYC.”
“I have always looked up to Mother Teresa as a role model for my work in education. While there are many other women who I admire who were more in the forefront of the public eye, her work was different. Seemingly 'behind the scenes' work that was a dedicated quiet service to others, when done consistently, had monumental impact on the lives of those served and later, the world. Her statement of 'doing small things with great love' is a saying I have tried to live by. She was such a strong, brave, and loving woman who dedicated her entire life to her chosen work; seeking no recognition but the impact it had on those on the receiving end.”
Fun fact: “I am fluent in French, and have traveled to over 11 countries outside the United States.”
Mary Faddoul, VP of Programs & Corporate Partnerships
“My drive is to be a part of change. I started my career as a journalist and was inspired by those at the frontlines of creating change and raising awareness about issues impacting people and communities across the nation and globe. I felt connected to the mission of Student Sponsor Partners because of the power of education to provide opportunity and help students reach their goals, and the extension of that to support their families for generations to come.”
“There are many women throughout history who have paved the way for us, so I don't think there's just one I can name among the leaders, authors, advocates, and educators. Besides those known to all, my mother is a constant inspiration to me and engrained in me the drive to help people in the community and to follow my goals.”
Fun Fact: “I love collecting postcards from places I visit along all my travels, whether right here in NYC or across the world.”
Juliet Estremera Lacey, Programs Associate
Programs Associate | (646) 783-2753 | jlacey@sspnyc.org
“I have always been a student who loves many disciplines. My interests naturally range from playing guitar, to reading and writing, to learning about science and going on long hikes. I think of all I’ve ever wanted to learn, how to be kind has been a priority. It is mostly my luck to be able to work as a support for the programs team at SSP: I get to write often, learn many different areas of how non-profits work, and spend time with colleagues I believe are sincerely kind people. I love our mission because of my connection and passion to education!”
“Many women have inspired me throughout my lifetime. The many women of my family, my mother most importantly, and the women writers who I look up to: Gloria Naylor, Grace Paley, Jamaica Kincaid, Kirsten Valdez Quade, and Carmen Maria Machado.”
Fun Fact: "I love the color light blue!"
Tiara Habeebullah, Marketing and Communications Manager
“I chose to work for this organization because of SSP's devotion to youth and community. After a day of work, I feel fulfilled knowing that I am helping an organization change a child's life and future.”
“My grandmother, Brenda-Jean, god rest her soul, is my biggest inspiration. She was our matriarch, and family was the most important thing to her. I remember going to church with her as a child. She was the first person to teach me about community and compassion. She poured resources and love into her family, so I live to make her proud.”
Fun Fact: Played women's professional football for Phoenix Phantomz.
