By Alejandra Wells
Being featured on KETV for my work with Hiya was such a surreal moment, but what made it even more meaningful was knowing that it was all rooted in growth, the kind that comes from showing up, learning, and letting yourself be stretched.
This past year, I had the opportunity to study with The Bloc, a nonprofit that helps young people discover their power through leadership development. I joined the Board of Directors Pipeline Program by invitation of Dina Becirovic, a mentor of mine, and it changed the way I saw myself as a leader.
We took the Gallup strengths assessment to better understand our unique talents, and dove deep into how communication can be one of our most valuable tools. The program wasn’t just about titles or public speaking; it was about impact.
Each time we met, we'd take a bus to the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, where we met for class to learn more about leadership. We learned how to bring our voices into rooms that don’t always make space for us.
And while doing all of that, I was also building Hiya, growing this little jewelry brand with a big heart for mental health awareness and youth empowerment.
Balancing both wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it.
Because every class, every conversation, and every challenge helped me show up stronger for my community and for myself.
I was so thankful when Dina invited me to share my experience with News Anchor Rob McCartney of KETV. See the photos below. It was awesome!
