Game Changers

Helen Diaz

Helen is currently a senior studying Political Science with a double minor in Public Administration and Latin American/Latino Studies at Montclair State University. As an intern at The Common Good, Helen assists on many projects, but primarily works on finding and contacting potential Game Changers, the membership database, and handling email correspondence for events. Her time at TCG has allowed her to learn new skills but most importantly have a firsthand glimpse into the political process. When not working in TCG, Helen works in the Programs Department at Rising Tide Capital, a nonprofit micro lending organization based in Jersey City, NJ that helps struggling entrepreneurs in urban areas start their businesses through mentoring and coaching. As part of the Programs Department, Helen helps plan and promote coaching and mentoring events that help entrepreneurs. Watching entrepreneurs try to kick start their business has further inspired Helen to pursue a master’s degree in public policy and urban planning. Her experience studying abroad in Madrid originally launched her curiosity and interest in different types of urban development projects.

While working at Rising Tide Capital, Helen has seen firsthand how the right coaching and mentorship can help entrepreneurs make their dreams come true. She recently participated in Rising Tide Capital’s Plan and Pitch Competition where she helped entrepreneurs perfect their marketing strategies. She thought that it was inspiring to watch entrepreneurs dramatically improve their marketing strategies and watch their confidence grow as the entrepreneurs were coached. She believes that these types of services should be readily available in other urban areas to reduce economic inequality.

Helen’s work does not end there. In the past, she has used her bilingual skills to help organize holiday parties for disadvantaged children in her hometown and has been a part of the Political Science Club at her school which seeks to involve students in the political process. After Helen completes her Master’s degree, she hopes to work in a nonprofit organization that focuses on development in Latin America.