Yaniza recently joined GatherDC as the team’s new Digital Content Manager! Yaniza is super excited to be working in a Jewish professional space and to learn all about Jewish life in DC. Keep reading to find out all about Yaniza and her life as a newlywed (mazel tov!) and cat mom.
GatherDC: Welcome Yaniza! What brings you to the Gather team?
Yaniza: I am the type of person who is motivated by change, growth, and community. I fell in love with GatherDC’s mission and intentionality of empowering the community by meeting people where they are. I think that is a fundamental component of being human.
GatherDC: What are you most excited for in your new role?
Yaniza: As a non-Jewish person (call me Jewish adjacent/Jewish curious) I am excited to learn about Judaism (wisdom, culture, and food) and work to share GatherDC’s mission digitally.
GatherDC: Can you describe your dream day in the DMV from start to finish?
Yaniza: First I would go on a walk or bike ride on the Metropolitan Branch Trail with my husband. Then I would grab a cool refreshment from a well-renowned coffee chain — Dunkin’ because it reminds me of home (Massachusetts). Later I would meet some friends for happy hour at the Alamo Drafthouse (I’m addicted to their loaded fries). For dinner, we would all go back to my house and have some delicious Detroit style pizza from Emmys Squared. We would spend the night chilling out, listening to music, and playing board games. I would end the night with some delicious cookies from Levain Bakery.
GatherDC: What’s the one thing you can’t get through the day without?
Yaniza: Spending time with my pets (Blue, BabyBlue, and Shadow)! When we got our 10 month old kitten we actually didn’t know she was expecting. Watching her kittens come into the world has been so special. They will never be this small again so I’m making sure I cherish every moment!
GatherDC: What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Yaniza: I’m Latina (my parents are Peruvian and Chilean), bilingual, a Bad Bunny fan (peep the ankle tattoo), and I’m not a fan of rice!
GatherDC: What’s something about Jewish life/Judaism that you’re excited to learn more about?
Yaniza: Everything! I want to learn all about Jewish wisdom, food, and culture. I am always looking to explore and go to Jewish related events!
GatherDC: What is one new fun hobby you’ve gotten into over the course of this pandemic?
Yaniza: Painting! I love finding new ways to create and express myself and painting has been something therapeutic for me.
GatherDC: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Yaniza: Be patient and don’t take things personally.
GatherDC: What is your favorite thing you’ve done this year?
Yaniza: Got married!!! I’m a romantic 🙂
GatherDC: Last but not least, complete this sentence: When getting to know Jewish DC…
Yaniza: You learn a lot!
Want to meet Yaniza? Say hi here!
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