Meet Nina from Washington DC. Nina currently lives in New York City and is the Nation Director of Expansion for a food-tech startup, HUNGRY, that connects aspiring and top local chefs to corporate clients. She’s passionate in the fight against wrongful convictions/incarceration. She also loves curating Spotify playlists to her different moods and attempting to cook Persian food. To Nina, power means discipline. Discipline can be a powerful form of self-love. It doesn’t need to be rigid, but avoiding procrastination, staying consistent with activities that bring joy, and daily personal rituals remind her of who she is and who she wants to be. This story was submitted in collaboration with ENVSN. 

What did you study in school and why?  

I studied law, which I found intellectually challenging, but also a basic yet fascinating study of human behavior in society.  Though I’m not currently practicing, the professional and business skills I cultivated in law school serve me daily in my career.

What is your job/career?

I am the National Director of Expansion for a food-tech startup, HUNGRY, that connects aspiring and top local chefs to corporate clients. I move cities every 60 days or so with my team to launch new markets.

What is a challenge you have faced or currently face and how are you overcoming it?

Impactful leadership.  It’s tough. I’m trying to learn from my mentors while also highlighting my own style and nuances, so I can lead with authenticity.

What does it mean for you to be powerful?

To me, discipline can be a powerful form of self-love. It doesn’t need to be rigid, but avoiding procrastination, staying consistent with activities that bring joy, and daily personal rituals remind me of who I am and who I want to be.

Do you have a favorite product or item you love that makes you feel great? It can be clothing, soap, socks, or anything.

I’ve got big love for plants.  Because of the amount I travel, I can’t keep any, but I buy a small plant in every city I move to, then gift it to someone who’s inspired me during my time there.

What are your passions, hobbies, interests?

I’m passionate in the fight against wrongful convictions/incarceration, curating Spotify playlists to my different moods, and attempting to cook Persian food.