Meet Jesenia Wright

We were lucky to catch up with Jesenia Wright recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jesenia, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I developed my resilience through my life experiences. Early on in life, I was faced with hardships and placed in positions that forced me to be strong. As a child, didn’t have any control over some my experiences but I did have control over how I responded. As I navigated those hardships, I learned that I would have to save myself because those I relied on to protect me did not.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am a Social Worker by trade. I work as a Director at a local nonprofit in Upstate NY. I am also the founder and CEO of my own nonprofit, GivingsCloset. The work that I do, no matter what hat I’m wearing, is about uplifting and empowering others. Within the last year, I have been focused on developing my own business that focuses on workplace wellness and consulting. It is my desire to launch that in the near future.

I believe that we show up as our best selves, when we have tools and resources available to help us do so. I am looking forward to connecting with folks through that work and helping them evolve.

In regards, to being proud- I am most proud of many things- 1. Being a mom to three beautiful children. Although motherhood is challenging, it such a rewarding and emotional experience that I cannot fully describe. I am also proud of the work I do in the community through my role as a leader and through my nonprofit. I am also proud of the amazing people I get to work with and learn from.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are my discipline, empathy, and ambition. When I set a goal, I am committed to achieving it, no matter the challenges. Growing up, I experienced what it was like to go without, which motivated me to work hard and avoid that situation again. I also have a deep desire to make a positive impact on others, which fuels my work. However, my empathetic nature, while a strength, can sometimes be a challenge as I tend to internalize things that are beyond my control. I’m always learning how to balance that sensitivity while staying focused on my goals.

With that being said, if I could give any advice to others, it is to be yourself and to live in your truth. Pursue opportunities that will make you happy and surround yourself with people that inspire you and love you for who you are. Lastly, it would be to take care of you because “you cannot pour from an empty cup”.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

In the past, when I would feel overwhelmed I struggled with managing those emotions in a healthy manner. Over time, I have learned healthier way to manage my emotions which include taking a break when needed, taking long showers, listening to music, disconnecting from social media, and challenging any negative self talk. These strategies I try to practice regularly but there are times when I revert to unhealthy habits such as shutting down. It’s important to know that I am a constant work in progress.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: Jesenia Wright
• Linkedin: Jesenia Wright, LMSW