The magic that makes it all happen!
Co-Founder / President
READ MORE ON OUR FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
READ MORE ON OUR
FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
PAMELA JACOBSEN
Pamela has a myriad of leadership experience that led to her living in four states: Utah (born and raised), New York, Colorado, and California. Her business and leadership experience includes driving sales and strategy, talent recruitment and development, to inspirational artistry and training. Pamela knows how to empower and elevate others in order for them to succeed. She is dedicated, focused, and has the ability to show compassion when needed while never losing sight of the goal. After 18 years in corporate management, Pamela started her own photography business focusing on the client experience. She contributes her success to her leadership roles as a teen and is on a mission to create a path for young girls to have access to the same opportunities regardless of where they are born or the socio economic status they were born into. Her motto: Do what is right rather than what it is easy.
Pamela sees beauty in everyone and thrives on unity. She finds value in every story sitting at the table and allows space for each voice to be heard. She believes in the power of honest conversation even when it is uncomfortable. “Change only comes when we sit at the table with preconceived truths set aside long enough to openly listen and desire to learn." She is fascinated by the how and why people do what they do and can spark a conversation with anyone she meets.
Her greatest accomplishment is realizing her purpose and not being afraid to see it through and believes this is the greatest gift she can give her children, creating a path for them to do the same. When she isn't strategizing for GSW, you will find her a documenting soundbites of life behind the lens, reading and writing, and if she hears a beat…it’s show time! FUN FACTS: Pamela was a competitive speed skater and has a weak spot for WARM chocolate chip cookies.
Pamela has a myriad of leadership experience that led to her living in four states: Utah (born and raised), New York, Colorado, and California. Her business and leadership experience includes driving sales and strategy, talent recruitment and development, to inspirational artistry and training. Pamela knows how to empower and elevate others in order for them to succeed. She is dedicated, focused, and has the ability to show compassion when needed while never losing sight of the goal. After 18 years in corporate management, Pamela started her own photography business focusing on the client experience. She contributes her success to her leadership roles as a teen and is on a mission to create a path for young girls to have access to the same opportunities regardless of where they are born or the socio economic status they were born into. Her motto: Do what is right rather than what it is easy.
Pamela sees beauty in everyone and thrives on unity. She finds value in every story sitting at the table and allows space for each voice to be heard. She believes in the power of honest conversation even when it is uncomfortable. “Change only comes when we sit at the table with preconceived truths set aside long enough to openly listen and desire to learn." She is fascinated by the how and why people do what they do and can spark a conversation with anyone she meets.
Her greatest accomplishment is realizing her purpose and not being afraid to see it through and believes this is the greatest gift she can give her children, creating a path for them to do the same. When she isn't strategizing for GSW, you will find her a documenting soundbites of life behind the lens, reading and writing, and if she hears a beat…it’s show time!
FUN FACTS: Pamela was a competitive speed skater and has a weak spot for WARM chocolate chip cookies.
Co-Founder / International Director
WALTER PRATTE
Born and raised in Argentina, Walter played soccer his entire life and in his early 20’s, explored a semi-pro career in Paraguay which led to the vision behind Girls Soccer Worldwide™. He has been a Professional Women’s Soccer Coach for more than 25 years and enjoys sharing his love and culture behind the game. He believes in the transformation the sport offers to our youth and how it directly shapes who they become on and off the field. Walter’s vision for equality in the sport was the spark that led to GSW’s beginnings and he believes in the global impact that will be made when girls have access to sports and proper education. Walter thrives for excellence and truly leads by example. He has a passion for speaking and motivating our youth today, helping them to see a bigger vision for not only themselves, but the world around them.
Today, he leads our outreach programs and because of his life in the game and experience in the states, he is able to bring irreplaceable insight to our strategic planning ensuring our efforts align with what is best for our communities. He stands up for what he believes in and knows when given the opportunity, hidden voices can make the greatest impact.
When Walter is not coaching or planning for GSW’s future, you can find him drinking maté, (at least 3x a day), listening to a wide variety of music, and cooking traditional Argentinean dishes. When his boys are asked what his super power is, their reply..."laughter." This is definitely where Walter finds his biggest joy in life, spending time with his 12 year old twin boys who are both avid soccer fans and participate in GSW alongside their parents. FUN FACT: He served in the Argentina Army Reserve for 2 years.
Born and raised in Argentina, Walter played soccer his entire life and in his early 20’s, explored a semi-pro career in Paraguay which led to the vision behind Girls Soccer Worldwide™. He has been a Professional Women’s Soccer Coach for more than 25 years and enjoys sharing his love and culture behind the game. He believes in the transformation the sport offers to our youth and how it directly shapes who they become on and off the field. Walter’s vision for equality in the sport was the spark that led to GSW’s beginnings and he believes in the global impact that will be made when girls have access to sports and proper education. Walter thrives for excellence and truly leads by example. He has a passion for speaking and motivating our youth today, helping them to see a bigger vision for not only themselves, but the world around them.
Today, he leads our outreach programs and because of his life in the game and experience in the states, he is able to bring irreplaceable insight to our strategic planning ensuring our efforts align with what is best for our communities. He stands up for what he believes in and knows when given the opportunity, hidden voices can make the greatest impact.
When Walter is not coaching or planning for GSW’s future, you can find him drinking maté, (at least 3x a day), listening to a wide variety of music, and cooking traditional Argentinean dishes. When his boys are asked what his super power is, their reply..."laughter." This is definitely where Walter finds his biggest joy in life, spending time with his 12 year old twin boys who are both avid soccer fans and participate in GSW alongside their parents.
FUN FACT: He served in the Argentina Army Reserve for 2 years.
READ MORE ON OUR FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
READ MORE ON OUR
FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
Treasurer
Kristi MOURA
Due to privacy concerns, Kristi has requested for her bio to stay private.
We can ensure you, she is highly qualified for this role and is hands on in the management of finances and more importantly, donations made to GSW. If you have interest in knowing more about her involvement, please don't hesitate to reach out by CLICKING HERE and we can discuss more in detail. She is happy to chat live with anyone who would like more information on our program.
Thank you for understanding. We respect Kristi's request as she is very valuable to our organization.
Secretary
LEXI NICHOLAS
Lexi Nicholas grew up in Pleasanton and started playing for Pleasanton Rage Girls Soccer at the U-6 level and continued all the way until U-18. She had the great fortune to not only play for Walter Pratte, Co-Founder of Girls Soccer Worldwide for 5 years, but also had the chance to discover her love for the goalkeeper position while a member of his team. After getting recruited by the University of Notre Dame, she moved all the way to South Bend, Indiana and spent four years playing soccer for the Fightin' Irish.
After graduating with a degree in Sociology and Spanish, she spent some time working for the Department of Justice. After close to two years, she moved on and re-evaluated what she wanted to do with her life. It didn't take long before she found her true passion: writing and storytelling.
She's now completing a Screenwriting Program at the New York Film Academy in New York City and she's living the dream! She hopes to have a career in film and television writing stories that both shed light on previously underrepresented communities and bring positive representation to the screen.
Program Manager in Paraguay
Carmen Nahir Raidán Ibarra
Nahir is a Psychology student at the National University of Itapúa, Paraguay, a Professional chef, and works for Girls Soccer Worldwide as our Program Manager in Coronel Bogado. She joined the GSW team knowing her effort, time, and knowledge will be used for social good and believes the simplest and most basic intentions are key to building something greater for the world we live in...equality.
Nahír oversees our 360 Sports and Education program and leads our all female team in Paraguay. She works closely with all GSW Ambassadors, volunteers and co-manages our Las Pionera's soccer team (first EVER all girls team in Coronel Bogado). When you meet her, you can easily say her super power is wrapped up in one word....empathy!
Her goal in becoming a psychologist is to improve her abilities + skills to better analyze the social reality in her community and position herself appropriately to find adequate solutions. When she is not fighting for justice or attending school you will find her drinking tereré or maté (Paraguayan favorites), listening to music, reading, or binge watching TV series and movies.
FUN FACT: Nahir speaks (3) languages: Spanish, English and Guarani and is on her way to learning a 4th...French.
Board Member + Leadership Committee
Gabby MUNCY
Gabby is a volunteer assistant coach for the Virginia Commonwealth University Women’s Soccer Team and focuses specifically on leadership development and team culture. She is passionate about her role because she has seen firsthand, as a coach, how it changes the game giving teams an intangible advantage. She loves equipping student-athletes with the interpersonal skills sets they need to lead healthy, successful lives. She is a visionary and has a passion for leading! Gabby's super power is the gift of forming relationships with others, identifying their potential, and pushing them towards it!
Gabby became a part of our team because she believes in women having access to sports. She has played soccer in so many different countries and seen the transforming power in areas where girls are able to play competitively. She not only is a board member, but is a part of our Ambassador for Change Leadership Development Team and brings a valuable voice to our program with her leadership experience with young Female Athletes.
When she is isn't at VCU or strategizing with GSW you will find her cooking, listens to podcasts (more than the average person!) and lifting heavy weights! She is a TRUE FOODIE and did someone say...latte!!
"Communities reap the benefits when women are educated, empowered, and given opportunities to lead." -Gabby
Leadership Committee
VERONICA TAKATA
Veronica is the Director of Operations and the magic behind the scenes at Prodigy Fitness in Pleasanton, CA. Her life was transformed after becoming a member as she went from hardly being able to run around with her kids to deadlifting 200 lbs. She knew this experience served a purpose to give back and helping others realize their own fitness and health potential. Seeing the transformation in confidence and strength that takes places in the lives of those around her brings her great joy.
Her super power? Helping others realize their own dreams! She joined the GSW team because she is able to be a part of something bigger than herself, create change, and be a voice for those who need it. Veronica not only serves on our Board but is voice for young girls in the Bay Area by bringing valuable insight to our Grassroots Leadership Program launching Fall of 2020. She sits on the Development team, will be co-facilitating workshops, and is a part of all strategic planning for what's ahead in the Bay Area.
Her greatest accomplishment is being at a time in life where she can combine all the areas of her life she loves most; her husband, children, and pursuing a career in helping others. You can also find Veronica reading, baking, hiking, or catching up with friends. Her most recent way to get through the week is creating a perfect bucket lists of adventures to take on with her kids.
FUN FACT: Veronica's laugh can be heard from very far away. They say laughter is the best medicine and she shares it with us all!
MEGAN TABLER
Megan is an Account Manager at a tech company called Hired, a two sided marketplace helping candidates find jobs they love and helps employers elevate their mission by finding great talent. She manages a portfolio of employers on the Hired platform and has the ability to build unique relationship with each one helping them achieve success . She knows the magic begins with great talent! "It’s fulfilling to watch the companies I support grow and know simultaneously I helped an individual land employment...oftentimes a life changing career move," she adds.
Soccer has been a significant part of her life and her proudest accomplishment is moving to England after college to complete her masters degree, while continuing to play soccer. Navigating a new country thousands of miles away from home has turned out to be the best time in her life. She is grateful for taking a leap of faith. Soccer has not only opened many doors for her throughout life, but has equipped her with valuable life skills she attributes to her own success today.
Megan has shared her business experience and voice as a Female Student Athlete with Girls Soccer Worldwide since 2016. She has traveled abroad for the past 3 years and brings valuable guidance to our programs. Her mentorship with our Ambassadors who are preparing for college is a gift in itself with her ability to share a relatable personal journey helping them to see the big picture ahead.
FUN FACT: Megan LOVES immersing herself into new culture and experiences. When she isn't navigating careers or strategizing with GSW, you will find her with family and friends, running, hiking and yes....traveling!
PAIGE TABLER
Paige is a VP of Services for SAP. She helps clients solve problems and realize value through SAP's technology. She loves helping others and solving problems which makes this job perfect for her. Her favorite part of what she does is getting to know her clients along with sharing the journey of identifying and solving problems from start to finish.
She learned about GSW through her twin sister, Megan Tabler, as she watched her make a positive impact on so many young girls through the trips to Paraguay and the events thrown in the bay area. She knew she had to find a way to get further involved herself and joined us on our 2019 South American Experience. She immediately stepped in and brought a valuable voice to our international planning and has continued to offered guidance with her extensive experience in the corporate world. One of her favorite parts about GSW is getting to work with young women all over the world and inspire them to work hard, not only on the field, but also in the classroom.
PRECIOUS AKANYIRIGE
Precious joined the Girls Soccer Worldwide™ family because mentorship and addressing health + social disparities are two areas that motivate and inspire her. She is a Pleasanton RAGE Girls Soccer and Baylor Women’s Soccer Alum who is currently pursuing her MD/MPH at Northwestern in Chicago. Precious went into medicine with the goal of becoming a physician who can work at the system level to help ensure more people have the right to equitable and quality care. "GSW is an extension of that goal— working to secure more equitable opportunities for young women, while also making connections through the sport she loves, " she adds.
If you don't find precious studying medicine or fighting for equality in GSW, you will find her in the process of curating a master list of her favorite books and restaurant, so if anyone has any recommendations, let her know! YOu will also find her hanging out on the rooftops of Chicago....the city has changed her!
FUN FACTS: Here is a quick list of Precious's 'would you rather' list!
Cookie dough>cookies.
Hot coffee>iced coffee.
In 'n' out > Whataburger.
Overall, Precious loves human connection, whether that comes from school, soccer, family, friends, or say to day interactions.
DanIELLE VALENTE
Danielle is a children's therapist for a non-profit outside of Philadelphia. She helps children learn how to cope with trauma, anxiety, depression and overcome negative feedback loops that are ingrained in their thought patterns. Danielle has a gift of empathizing and connecting with people on an individual basis and her priority is helping others feel nurtured, loved and cared for as they embark on their journeys. Her super power? You might hav guessed it...caring deeply for others.
Through her compassion and voice as a Female Athlete, Danielle brings a powerful voice to our organization. She played extensively and believes in the value of youth having access to sports. She also pursued an immersive Master's degree/soccer program in England prior to joining our team. She has traveled with us internationally for two years and with her hands-on experience in our programs abroad she brings valuable insight to it's success. "GSW is food for the soul that she didn't know she needed. It is steeped in all things that hold a special place in her heart: empowerment, equality and education."
Her proudest accomplishments are running a marathon + speaking and being a panelist at an international conference. Throughout my undergraduate degree, conditioning practices were always the most challenging for me and throughout high school I was socially awkward. I believe accomplishing both of these were testaments to how much I grew on a personal basis.
When Danielle isn't working with children, you will find her hanging out with friends, traveling and playing soccer! FUN FACT: Danielle has visited over 30 countries and tends to read three books at a time.
Co-Founder / International Director
WALTER PRATTE
Born and raised in Argentina, Walter played soccer his entire life and in his early 20’s, explored a semi-pro career in Paraguay which led to the vision behind Girls Soccer Worldwide™. He has been a Professional Women’s Soccer Coach for more than 25 years and enjoys sharing his love and culture behind the game. He believes in the transformation the sport offers to our youth and how it directly shapes who they become on and off the field. Walter’s vision for equality in the sport was the spark that led to GSW’s beginnings and he believes in the global impact that will be made when girls have access to sports and proper education. Walter thrives for excellence and truly leads by example. He has a passion for speaking and motivating our youth today, helping them to see a bigger vision for not only themselves, but the world around them.
Today, he leads our outreach programs and because of his life in the game and experience in the states, he is able to bring irreplaceable insight to our strategic planning ensuring our efforts align with what is best for our communities. He stands up for what he believes in and knows when given the opportunity, hidden voices can make the greatest impact.
When Walter is not coaching or planning for GSW’s future, you can find him drinking maté, (at least 3x a day), listening to a wide variety of music, and cooking traditional Argentinean dishes. When his boys are asked what his super power is, their reply..."laughter." This is definitely where Walter finds his biggest joy in life, spending time with his 12 year old twin boys who are both avid soccer fans and participate in GSW alongside their parents. FUN FACT: He served in the Argentina Army Reserve for 2 years.
Born and raised in Argentina, Walter played soccer his entire life and in his early 20’s, explored a semi-pro career in Paraguay which led to the vision behind Girls Soccer Worldwide™. He has been a Professional Women’s Soccer Coach for more than 25 years and enjoys sharing his love and culture behind the game. He believes in the transformation the sport offers to our youth and how it directly shapes who they become on and off the field. Walter’s vision for equality in the sport was the spark that led to GSW’s beginnings and he believes in the global impact that will be made when girls have access to sports and proper education. Walter thrives for excellence and truly leads by example. He has a passion for speaking and motivating our youth today, helping them to see a bigger vision for not only themselves, but the world around them.
Today, he leads our outreach programs and because of his life in the game and experience in the states, he is able to bring irreplaceable insight to our strategic planning ensuring our efforts align with what is best for our communities. He stands up for what he believes in and knows when given the opportunity, hidden voices can make the greatest impact.
When Walter is not coaching or planning for GSW’s future, you can find him drinking maté, (at least 3x a day), listening to a wide variety of music, and cooking traditional Argentinean dishes. When his boys are asked what his super power is, their reply..."laughter." This is definitely where Walter finds his biggest joy in life, spending time with his 12 year old twin boys who are both avid soccer fans and participate in GSW alongside their parents.
FUN FACT: He served in the Argentina Army Reserve for 2 years.
READ MORE ON OUR
FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
READ MORE ON OUR FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
Program Manager in Paraguay
CARMEN NAHIR RAIDÁN IBARRA
Nahir is a Psychology student at the National University of Itapúa, Paraguay, a Professional chef, and works for Girls Soccer Worldwide as our Program Manager in Coronel Bogado. She joined the GSW team knowing her effort, time, and knowledge will be used for social good and believes the simplest and most basic intentions are key to building something greater for the world we live in...equality.
Nahír oversees our 360 Sports and Education program and leads our all female team in Paraguay. She works closely with all GSW Ambassadors, volunteers and co-manages our Las Pionera's soccer team (first EVER all girls team in Coronel Bogado). When you meet her, you can easily say her super power is wrapped up in one word....empathy!
Her goal in becoming a psychologist is to improve her abilities + skills to better analyze the social reality in her community and position herself appropriately to find adequate solutions. When she is not fighting for justice or attending school you will find her drinking tereré or maté (Paraguayan favorites), listening to music, reading, or binge watching TV series and movies.
FUN FACT: Nahir speaks (3) languages: Spanish, English and Guarani and is on her way to learning a 4th...French.
BLOG: READ MORE ON NAHIR's JOURNEY HERE
BLOG: READ MORE ON
NAHIR's JOURNEY HERE
Head Coach, Paraguay
Johana Elizabeth Duarte Medina
Johana is in the process of completing her Final Degree Project in Social Work, at the National University of Itapúa in Paraguay which has been her greatest accomplishment. In addition to her studies, she has studied to be an Accounting Assistant, Computer Operator, and Human Resources and currently works as a Veterinary Assistant.
Johana is the Head Coach with Girls Soccer Worldwide working with the first ever ALL girls soccer team in Coronel Bogado. She is proud to be a part of our GSW family and adds, "From day one they put their hearts into my city, without any kind of discrimination, providing all giving with an opportunity. They always promote respect, discipline, education and something that is unique, gender equality. They represent a girl is no less than a boy and they also deserve a place anywhere." Johana exemplifies each and every word into everything she does for her community.
Johana's way of life: "I study because the basis for a good life is to have education. I work because without effort and dedication nothing is achieved. I play soccer because it gives me freedom, tranquility, friendships and beyond."
When Johana isn't completing her studies or coaching the game she loves, you will find her spending time with family, camping, and sharing her joy for traveling. FUN FACTS: Johana has an artistic spark whether it is drawing, playing the violin or transverse flute. When she hears music you will see her dancing and singing (like no one is watching)! She also speaks two languages, Spanish and Guarani.
Lawyer, Paraguay
Rocio Araceli Castillo Sánchez
Rocio is a lawyer and university teaching student at the National University of Itapuá and is in the beginning stages of her career as a lawyer. She enjoys her profession because there is much to learn with constant movement in this field of work, and with the combination of solving problems, helping and socially assisting her community she knows she can make an impact.
Currently, she volunteers her time with Girls Soccer Worldwide and brings a valuable voice of guidance for our team as we continue to grow our International programs. She works alongside our Team ensuring all proper protocols and are in place and our programs meet Paraguayan expectations and standards. She has a passion for participating in civil associations that seek common good and in addition to GSW, she has had the opportunity to work with different organizations, such as: Tekokatu (a word in Guaraní for the will to do well). Tekokatu is a group of individuals who help create spaces for young people to form and generate changes in their environment. With GSW, she is able to continue to work towards her goals to create change in her community.
When Rocio is not studying, building her business as a lawyer, or strategizing with GSW you will find her at home drinking terere or mate (Paraguayan favorite), reading, and enjoying a beautiful sunset! "It is the best time of the day when you can admire the sky and its wonders," Rocio adds.
FUN FACT: Rocio is an organizer by nature and enjoys organizing events and designing interior spaces.
Co-Founder / President
Pamela Jacobsen
Pamela has a myriad of leadership experience that led to her living in four states: Utah (born and raised), New York, Colorado, and California. Her business and leadership experience includes driving sales and strategy, talent recruitment and development, to inspirational artistry and training. Pamela knows how to empower and elevate others in order for them to succeed. She is dedicated, focused, and has the ability to show compassion when needed while never losing sight of the goal. After 18 years in corporate management, Pamela started her own photography business focusing on the client experience. She contributes her success to her leadership roles as a teen and is on a mission to create a path for young girls to have access to the same opportunities regardless of where they are born or the socio economic status they were born into. Her motto: Do what is right rather than what it is easy.
Pamela sees beauty in everyone and thrives on unity. She finds value in every story sitting at the table and allows space for each voice to be heard. She believes in the power of honest conversation even when it is uncomfortable. “Change only comes when we sit at the table with preconceived truths set aside long enough to openly listen and desire to learn." She is fascinated by the how and why people do what they do and can spark a conversation with anyone she meets.
Her greatest accomplishment is realizing her purpose and not being afraid to see it through and believes this is the greatest gift she can give her children, creating a path for them to do the same. When she isn't strategizing for GSW, you will find her a documenting soundbites of life behind the lens, reading and writing, and if she hears a beat…it’s show time!
FUN FACTS: Pamela was a competitive speed skater and has a weak spot for WARM chocolate chip cookies.
READ MORE ON OUR
FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
Pamela has a myriad of leadership experience that led to her living in four states: Utah (born and raised), New York, Colorado, and California. Her business and leadership experience includes driving sales and strategy, talent recruitment and development, to inspirational artistry and training. Pamela knows how to empower and elevate others in order for them to succeed. She is dedicated, focused, and has the ability to show compassion when needed while never losing sight of the goal. After 18 years in corporate management, Pamela started her own photography business focusing on the client experience. She contributes her success to her leadership roles as a teen and is on a mission to create a path for young girls to have access to the same opportunities regardless of where they are born or the socio economic status they were born into. Her motto: Do what is right rather than what it is easy.
Pamela sees beauty in everyone and thrives on unity. She finds value in every story sitting at the table and allows space for each voice to be heard. She believes in the power of honest conversation even when it is uncomfortable. “Change only comes when we sit at the table with preconceived truths set aside long enough to openly listen and desire to learn." She is fascinated by the how and why people do what they do and can spark a conversation with anyone she meets.
Her greatest accomplishment is realizing her purpose and not being afraid to see it through and believes this is the greatest gift she can give her children, creating a path for them to do the same. When she isn't strategizing for GSW, you will find her a documenting soundbites of life behind the lens, reading and writing, and if she hears a beat…it’s show time! FUN FACTS: Pamela was a competitive speed skater and has a weak spot for WARM chocolate chip cookies.
READ MORE ON OUR FOUNDER'S STORY HERE
Board Member + Leadership Committee
GABBY MUNCY
Gabby is a volunteer assistant coach for the Virginia Commonwealth University Women’s Soccer Team and focuses specifically on leadership development and team culture. She is passionate about her role because she has seen firsthand, as a coach, how it changes the game giving teams an intangible advantage. She loves equipping student-athletes with the interpersonal skills sets they need to lead healthy, successful lives. She is a visionary and has a passion for leading! Gabby's super power is the gift of forming relationships with others, identifying their potential, and pushing them towards it!
Gabby became a part of our team because she believes in women having access to sports. She has played soccer in so many different countries and seen the transforming power in areas where girls are able to play competitively. "Communities reap the benefits when women are educated, empowered, and given opportunities to lead, " Gabby adds. She not only is a board member, but is a part of our Ambassador for Change Leadership Development Team and brings a valuable voice to our program with her leadership experience with young Female Athletes.
When she is isn't at VCU or strategizing with GSW you will find her cooking, listens to podcasts (more than the average person!) and lifting heavy weights! She is a TRUE FOODIE and did someone say...latte!!
RACHEL KUCZYNSKI
Rachel is a Northern California resident and works as a Dance Teacher and Choreographer for The Bay Area and Beyond. Growing up she was immersed in dance and multiple sports and eventually made her way Into California State University of Long Beach on a Track and Field Scholarship with a major in Dance. After graduating from CSULB she moved to New York to pursue her dreams in dance, and performed in various on and off Broadway shows, danced with multiple dance companies, and performed in various side gigs as a dancer.
She finds it extremely important to be a role model to our youth and guide them in the direction of success in being whoever they want to be. She is so honored to be a part of the GSW team! Rachel is a valuable part of our Ambassador for Change Leadership development team and will be co-facilitating throughout the 2020-2021 program.
FUN FACT: Rachel was a level 6 State Champion of Northern California in gymnastics. She is full of light and carries a contagious smile with her everywhere she goes.
Ambassador for Leadership Program
FIONA Vallidez
Fiona is currently a student at Los Medanos Community College majoring in Kinesiology. In addition to being a student, she works as a front desk receptionist, in child care, and is training to be a fitness instructor at Barre Beat. Her future goals are to open a fitness studio or attend medical school and become a dermatologist.
Since 2017, her involvement with GSW has been a 360 because she traveled to South America as an Ambassador for Change Leader experiencing our Paraguayan community first hand. The Girls Soccer Worldwide Program is important to her because "it is a team full of world changers and I am grateful to be one of them." she adds. Fiona is now a part of the Ambassador for Change Leadership Development Team and will be mentoring girls who are on a similar path she was on only a short time ago. If you know Fiona, you know she is driven! She also believes life should be lived with a purpose and the gifts we have should be used as a contagious light for all those around us. That’s the life she wants to live and we can assure you she does! Fiona truly has a heart and passion for people.
FUN FACTS: Fiona is open for anything outside that flat out screams an adventure. She also CANNOT drink coffee because she already has too much energy. She is on a natural energy boost of life! With that said, you wont be surprised to learn she is a 98% extrovert.
Ambassador for Leadership
VERONICA TAKATA
Veronica is the Director of Operations and the magic behind the scenes at Prodigy Fitness in Pleasanton, CA. Her life was transformed after becoming a member as she went from hardly being able to run around with her kids to deadlifting 200 lbs. She knew this experience served a purpose to give back and helping others realize their own fitness and health potential. Seeing the transformation in confidence and strength that takes places in the lives of those around her brings her great joy.
Her super power? Helping others realize their own dreams! She joined the GSW team because she is able to be a part of something bigger than herself, create change, and be a voice for those who need it. Veronica not only serves on our Board but is a voice for young girls in the Bay Area by bringing valuable insight to our Grassroots Leadership Program launching Fall of 2020. She sits on the Development team, will be co-facilitating workshops, and is a part of all strategic planning for what's ahead in the Bay Area.
Her greatest accomplishment is being at a time in life where she can combine all the areas of her life she loves most; her husband, children, and pursuing a career in helping others. You can also find Veronica reading, baking, hiking, or catching up with friends. Her most recent way to get through the week is creating a perfect bucket lists of adventures to take on with her kids.
FUN FACT: Veronica's laugh can be heard from very far away. They say laughter is the best medicine and she shares it with us all!
Grassroots Leadership Program