Lourdes Zuniga

OfficialLZHS

  • What does your organization do?

    Financial Health Pathways is a community centered organization that works at the intersection of finances and health. Our organization is focused on improving the financial health of Texans by providing financial education and resources to underserved communities so they can build their own wealth and achieve financial freedom..

  • How did you become interested in this work?

    As an immigrant I have struggled navigating our systems including the financial and I have always been grateful to have had people who helped me understand and prioritize so I can achieve my financial goals. After learning about FHP’s mission I immediately realized not only the great impact they made but the potential to innovate in the space by changing the way we talk about financial issues and making the current content, which was very technical, into a much more relevant and easy to assimilate. Our systems often do not include the voices of underserved communities during the design process so I thought my skill set in communication and my lived experience could serve well in bridging that communication gap and advocacy of communities historically underserved.

  • What drives your passion?

    My commitment to advocate for immigrant communities and my love for social justice.

    Overcoming so many obstacles as an immigrant in the US has given me a purpose that is to make people’s journeys a little bit easier and lighter than the one I endured. If I can do that through my work I feel I have fulfilled my purpose in life.

  • Do you have a mentor or a role model?

    I have a few and for different purposes. Personally my mother has been instrumental as a role model. I admire her wisdom and strength. Professionally, I have friends that have served as mentors in many circumstances and I learn from them everyday.

  • What's the biggest challenge in your work?

    Trying to do it all. Unlearning habits that do not align with my wellness and quality of life. There is so much to do but a leader must learn to find balance and recharge so we can be effective leaders. That is probably my biggest challenge. Finding balance while trying to help so many people in need.

  • What's the best advice that you have ever received?

    Leadership is not a popularity contest. It is about serving others with humility so embrace your own style, stay focused on what matters and do what you love.

  • What are your top tips for new Executive Directors?

    1. Be intentional.
    2. Build your village and ask them to help when you need it.
    3. Celebrate the small victories and remember them when you feel discouraged