Program Manager, Dallas, Texas

Erika Martinez

Education:

Bachelor of Science and Arts in Nutritional Sciences and minor in Mexican American Studies from the University of Texas at Austin

Currently pursuing post- baccalaureate dietetics coursework at the University of Texas at Austin to attain her license as a Registered Dietitian

Experience: Before Girls Empowerment Network, Erika served as a Community Health Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay for two years. There she worked primarily with women leaders in her community on different projects that were created to promote healthy habits. Most of these projects were geared towards the children and women in a small rural community south of Paraguay. She worked with teachers and community leaders to finalize projects on trainings, workshops, health courses, and summer camps. Erika completed her service in the Peace Corps with her favorite project, the creation of a book kit titled “Amoñe’ê” (I Read) made for Peace Corps volunteers to use with kids in their respective communities and created with the goal to increase literacy and raise awareness regarding diversity and inclusion. She believes this is a mission that Girls Empowerment Network also embodies. 

During her time at The University of Texas in Austin, she studied both Nutrition and Mexican American Studies, managing to merge her two passions of educating youth about nutrition and their culture while also working with underserved communities. She has had the privilege of working in multiple roles with several non-profit organizations in the Austin area that provide services to underserved communities. These roles have included leading after school programs and coordinating a summer camp for girls.  Through working with young girls, she has witnessed first hand how empowering it is to have open conversations with girls about self-esteem, puberty, and health. She is excited to continue this path with Girls Empowerment Network. 

What I love about Girls Empowerment Network: Girls Empowerment Network is providing a unique service to girls that can help them develop more self confidence and other important tools, so that they may feel empowered to be their most authentic selves. I am grateful to be part of a team that fosters such an inspirational environment not only for Girls Empowerment Network participants but for its facilitators as well. I feel so fortunate to be able to work in a place with such dedication to enriching the lives of girls.