Erin Wu: Broadening Perspectives, Empowering Communities
Through the Leavey School of Business Community Fellows program, I have had the privilege to work as a Marketing and Communications Intern for the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley (HFSV). As someone from a different major and cultural background, this role was not one I initially envisioned for myself. However, my journey with HFSV has been incredibly welcoming, and I have found my place within this amazing team.
HFSV is a nonprofit committed to increasing Hispanic/Latine representation in STEM and tech. Growing up in the Bay Area, surrounded by high-tech companies, I rarely thought about representation within these fields. In my own community, careers in STEM and pursuing higher education are often normalized. However, working with HFSV has broadened my perspective, helping me recognize that my experiences are not universal but rather shaped by the privilege and access stemming from my positionality. This role has challenged me to reflect on how systemic barriers limit opportunities for others and how nonprofits like HFSV work to overcome these barriers.
I have been deeply impressed by HFSV’s multifaceted approach to education — from early exposure in elementary school to career development for university students, as well as leadership opportunities for adults and programs for parents. At the Hispanic Foundation Ball, I saw how such a small team could have such a large impact on others. Despite the challenges of working in the nonprofit sector such as funding constraints and varying levels of public support, HFSV continues to create meaningful, tangible change within the community.
Working alongside my supervisor and colleagues has also allowed me to engage in critical dialogue about issues affecting both the Hispanic/Latine community and my own. These conversations have deepened my understanding of the similarities and differences between our cultural communities, helped me find the parallels between our own generational experiences, and created a space for mutual solidarity. As a Community Fellow, I hope to continue to deepen my understanding and contribute my outreach skills and experience working in multicultural spaces to support HFSV’s mission. I am committed to helping raise awareness, increase support, and uplift a community that deserves greater equity and representation.