Transportation Planner III, Planning & Development

3 years with the City of Houston – 14 years in Public Service

Why is public service important to you?

Public service holds a profound significance in my life. It is through public service that I can actively contribute to the betterment of my community and advocate for the needs and rights of individuals who may face unique challenges and barriers.

Public service allows me to be a voice for those who may be marginalized or underrepresented, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed. It provides an opportunity to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equality, working towards a society where everyone has an equal chance to thrive and succeed.

Having experienced the journey of immigration firsthand, I understand the struggles and obstacles that immigrants face in adapting to a new country. Public service allows me to empathize with and support fellow immigrants, providing them with the resources, assistance, and guidance they need to navigate the complexities of a new culture and society.

Public service empowers me to actively challenge these injustices, working towards creating a more equitable and just society for all. It allows me to advocate for policies and initiatives that address the specific needs and concerns of minority communities, ensuring that their voices are heard, and our rights-needs are protected.

Ultimately, public service is important to me because it allows me to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals who may face unique challenges. It is a way for me to give back to the community that has embraced me and to create a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations.

Why did you choose a career in Public Service?

Public service holds a deep significance in my life, I think I have been born with an innate desire to serve others. This passion was further nurtured by the inspiring examples set by my family members who have dedicated themselves to public service. My father, an esteemed architect in Marinha Grande, Portugal, my grandfather, who served as a council member in the Municipality of Chacao, Caracas, Venezuela for six years, my uncle, who held the esteemed position of General Consul of Venezuela in Bohn, Germany, and my great uncle, a Veteran Captain of the United States Airforce, have all instilled in me the values of serving one’s country and community.

Throughout my childhood, family dinners and gatherings were filled with discussions about the rewards and responsibilities that come with serving others. These conversations have shaped my perspective on the importance of public service. Over the course of nearly 15 years as a public servant, my underlying motivation has remained unwavering, regardless of the department I have served in.

As a former diplomat, I consider it an honor to represent my country and carry the responsibility of leaving a lasting legacy wherever I am stationed. I have to embody the values of honesty, professionalism, and knowledge while showcasing the rich culture and heritage of my people. Ensuring my fellow citizens, ‘ quality of life, safety, health, education, and access to basic necessities, as well as ensuring their human rights, are paramount goals that drive my commitment to public service.

In addition to my diplomatic role, I have had the privilege of working across various departments, including Energy, Education, Economic Development, Internal Audit, and the Vice presidency of the Republic. In each of these roles, my conviction has been to ensure that communities have equitable access to services, programs, and benefits. By actively participating in shaping policies that combat systemic exclusion and privilege, I strive to create societal change. This includes advocating for scholarships and loans for minorities, businesswomen, and students from low-income families.

Upon moving to the United States, I made the conscious decision to continue my path as a public servant, aiming to build a legacy for my daughters and the people of Houston. Working for the city is an honor, as it allows me to bring forth my diverse background, expertise, knowledge, passion, and unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for our residents. I am dedicated to ensuring that our services are effective, equitable, and inclusive, serving others with a strong emphasis on diversity.

What would you say to inspire someone to begin a career in public service?

o inspire someone to embark on a career in public service, I would emphasize the profound impact they can have on creating positive change and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. While it is true that a career in public service often requires sacrifice, the rewards and fulfillment that come from making a difference in people’s lives far outweigh the challenges.

By choosing a career in public service, you have the opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping policies, programs, and initiatives that directly impact the well-being of individuals and communities. Your contributions can lead to tangible improvements in areas such as education, healthcare, social justice, environmental sustainability, and more.

Public service allows you to be a catalyst for change, addressing societal issues and working towards a better future. It provides a platform to advocate for the rights and needs of marginalized communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.

Moreover, a career in public service offers a sense of purpose and fulfillment that few other professions can provide. Knowing that your work is making a positive impact on the lives of others and contributing to the greater good can bring immense satisfaction and a deep sense of meaning.

Additionally, public service offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. It allows you to develop a diverse skill set, including leadership, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, which are valuable in any career path. You will have the chance to work alongside like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a difference, fostering a supportive and inspiring work environment.

Lastly, public service provides the chance to leave a lasting legacy. By dedicating your career to serving others, you are actively contributing to building a better place to live not only for the present generation but also for future ones. Your efforts can create a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond your own lifetime.

In summary, a career in public service is an opportunity to be part of the change, to make a meaningful contribution, and to leave a lasting impact on society. Despite the sacrifices, the rewards and the fulfillment that come from serving others and creating a better world are immeasurable. If you have a passion for making a difference and a desire to create a better place for future generations, public service is the right path for you.