Today we celebrate Esmerelda Mora! YWCA Yakima is on a mission to empower women. #52women52weeks was created to celebrate and highlight the amazing women & #SHEros in the #yakimavalley. We are proud to share more about Esmerelda..

What is one word that describes you perfectly?
Loyal

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
? Cultivate a humble attitude and remain humble.
? Handle yourself with grace.
? Set healthy boundaries and respect them.
? Learn from those older and more experienced than you because “Iron sharpens Iron”.
? A part of being a leader means you bring out the best potential in others, assure them they are appreciated and important, celebrate the wins of others, and help them rise when they fall short without announcing it to the world.
? Let your “Yes mean Yes, and your No, No”. In other words, follow through with your promises with honesty and integrity.
? Respect your own privacy and the privacy of others.
? Take the time to reassess your goals, plans, and where you want to go in life.
? Enjoy the process of refinement!
? Never stop learning!

What makes you happy?
I am a person of strong faith, and I absolutely love the timeless wisdom the Bible contains. Applying its practical advice in my day-to-day life has provided me with an enriching life which makes me very content because it brings me a great measure of happiness and peace.

How do you measure success?
I base true success on proper values and motives not on image or on how much money we possess. To me, a person’s character traits and work ethic speaks volumes. I also believe success comes from the fulfillment we feel from what we do and how we do it.

What historical event inspires you the most?
The introduction of Jump Rope is one of my favorites! Jump rope was brought in by early Dutch settlers back in the 1940’s. In 1995, USA Jump Rope was formed to promote healthy lifestyles to all ages and to create competitive opportunities. Now more than ever, it is evident that we give priority to our physical and mental health. Jump roping is one way I give my brain and body the opportunity to have fun, be creative, and foster confidence.

What is your favorite quote and why?
How many of you grew up with Disney? I did! One of my many favorite quotes is, “Hakuna Matata” by Disney; “It means no worries.” When I am presented with situations that cause me anxiety, stress, or sadness, this quote helps me put things in perspective. I focus on what I do have control over, anything outside of that, well, “Hakuna Matata”. I don’t worry about it. I move on with happiness, and I sleep with a clean conscience knowing I put sincere efforts in the things I can handle and control.