Young South Brunswick Women Receive Powerful Message

On Saturday, The South Brunswick Commission on Women held their fourteenth annual Leadership Conference and Career Pathways event at South Brunswick High School. Over 300 students attended the event where they were able to learn the fundamental steps of career planning.

The commission presented two $1,000 scholarships to two graduating seniors, Sophie Hyde and Meriam Khan, who completed outstanding community service, in addition to taking on strong leadership roles in their community.

The conference also allowed students to meet a variety of professional woman from diverse backgrounds during several workshops. Some of the workshops that were offered included were Health and Wellness, Culinary Arts, High School and Beyond, Pharmacy, Communications and Legal Professions.

The day took off with a keynote address from guest speaker Jessica G. Ortiz, Acting Operational Vice President of Development and Director of Grants at the Liberty Science Center.

“My story began at the age of 5 when I arrived here from the Dominican Republic," Ortiz said.  "I was holding my mothers hand in a place that was cold and unfamiliar. I felt I was being uprooted."

Ortiz’s mother explained to her the reason for their move was for the purposes of higher education and economic opportunities. From very early on, Ortiz vowed that she would do everything in her power to make the most of the opportunities that were in front of her.

Ortiz went on to explain to the students how she went about achieving success and the experiences that made her into the person she is today.

“When you’re in high school you have to go beyond the physical walls of the school to improve your skill sets," she said.   "There are so many opportunities for you right now.”

Through her personal story she offered information to the students about finding their passion and how to achieve the goals in front of them.

“What are we looking at when we say we have an interest?" she asked.  "What does that mean for you? What are you looking to get out of it?”

Ortiz emphasized three primary points to leave with the audience. One, to better your education.

“Whether it’s a trade career, college or graduate degree, whatever your purpose is, interests are, really focus on continuing your education and growing those interests,” Ortiz said.

Her second point was for the students to find a mentor.

“A mentor can be anyone, any adult in your life," Ortiz said.  "A parent, an uncle or an educator. Someone who continues your learning by both your positive skill and skills you need to develop more.”

And lastly, Ortiz's final tip was to improve skill development.  

“Volunteer opportunities are plentiful in the state of New Jersey," she said.  "They are available at most institutions. Reach out and inquire to those agencies where you have those interests. See what internships are available, you want to have those on your resume. It shows you are doing more beyond the walls of your school.”

Ortiz left the students with a message of confidence, hard work and dedication.

“Make sure you put all of your energy into what interests you, to achieve all of your goals and purposes," she concluded.

South Brunswick Mayor Frank Gambatese closed out the keynote speech.

“Now I know why I love this program, I learned a lot," he said.  "Behind every strong man is a strong woman. You need to use what God has given you and obtain what’s out there for you. Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t.”