International Women's Day is here, and we are continuing to highlight some fantastic women making a difference at Vibe. We spoke with Justina Casillas, Director of Human Resources on what International Women's Day means to her and how she inspires inclusivity in the workplace.
How does Vibe make you feel empowered in the workplace?
At Vibe Credit Union I feel empowered in numerous ways. There's a strong culture of trust and autonomy, where I'm given the freedom to make decisions and take ownership of my goals. The trust I have been given from my leader has empowered me and encourages me to take initiative. I have been offered several opportunities for growth and development. Whether it's through conferences, training programs, mentorship opportunities, or regular feedback sessions, I feel supported in my professional journey. Knowing that Vibe invests in my growth gives me a sense of enablement and motivates me to continuously elevate my performance.
Vibe Credit Union fosters open communication and values diverse perspectives. I feel comfortable expressing my ideas and opinions, knowing they'll be listened to and considered. This inclusivity creates a supportive environment where everyone's contributions are valued, regardless of their position or background.
Overall, the combination of trust, support for growth, psychological safety, and inclusive culture at Vibe makes me feel empowered to take on challenges, voice my ideas, and contribute to the overall success of the team.
How do you #inspireinclusion for other females in the workplace and daily life?
My approach to inspiring inclusion for other females in the workplace or daily life is to show support. I am open to offering guidance, feedback, and, if appropriate, opportunities for growth. I take the time to pause for applause, for those around me. Celebrating achievements and recognizing when someone overcomes a challenge, either personally or professionally, is extremely important to me. I work hard to demonstrate inclusive behavior in my own actions and interactions. I want to learn and actively listen to diverse perspectives. At Vibe, we work hard to foster an environment where all team members feel safe to express themselves and share their experiences. I am a strong advocate for flexibility in work arrangements, when possible, to help support female team members, who may be balancing work and caregiving responsibilities.
What woman inspires you the most in your personal life or in general?
It would be impossible to narrow down one woman that inspires me the most. I have been lucky to have a collective presence of many women in my life help to shape my values, beliefs and aspirations. They each have enriched my journey and continue to contribute to the person I am today.
- My Grandmother: Her bravery, strength and courage during the Korean War have always served as a foundational source of inspiration to me.
- My Mother: Her resilience, determination, and unwavering support have shaped my own strength of character. She sets an example of resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.
- My Best Friend: Her compassion, empathy, and kindness and her capacity to care for others inspires me to approach life with empathy, generosity, and laughter.
- Judy: She has a nurturing and supportive nature that has always provided me with a sense of belonging and security. Her selflessness and care demonstrate the importance of community and support.
- My Aunt: Her guidance and wisdom have always provided stability and perspective. Her influence encourages me to stay grounded and connected to my roots.
- My Leader: My current leader serves as a role model for professional growth and development. Her mentorship and leadership style empower me to reach my full potential and strive for excellence.
What does International Women's Day mean to you?
For me, International Women's Day takes on a deeply personal significance this year. As someone who has recently stepped into a leadership role, this day represents an opportunity to reflect on the journey that has led me here and the responsibility that comes with it. Being in a leadership position for the first time in my life is both exhilarating and humbling. It's a chance to use my voice and influence to advocate for gender equality and empower others, especially women, in my workplace and beyond. International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead in creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
Working in Human Resources, I have the privilege of not only shaping the direction of projects and initiatives but also nurturing the growth and development of those around me. I can mentor and support other women or team members, helping them overcome challenges and reach their full potential. This aspect of leadership is particularly meaningful to me as I remember the mentors and role models who have guided me along my own journey.
Empowering Women Today for a Stronger Tomorrow
On International Women's Day, I feel a sense of purpose and determination to continue breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and championing diversity. It's a day to celebrate the achievements of women I know personally and everywhere, while also acknowledging the ongoing struggle for gender equality. It is a day to reflect on my commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment where everyone can thrive.
As we honor International Women's Day and its theme of inspiring inclusion, we are proud to highlight the remarkable women of Vibe Credit Union. Let's continue to uplift one another, embrace our diversity, and integrate inclusivity into every facet of our lives. Happy International Women's Day!
