With programs and services that span arts and culture, health, family, and economic advancement, The Center has empowered and supported LGBTQ+ New Yorkers for over 40 years. Our long-standing partner and neighbor in Manhattan’s West Village, the organization provides direct services to 3,000 community members each year.
In celebration of Pride Month, we spoke with The Center’s new CEO Dr. Carla Smith and Wesley White, an alum of the GET IT Fellowship—a Center Works training program which helps participants find meaningful long-term employment. From our office in the Meatpacking District, the duo delves into the importance of community, leveling the playing field, and embracing ambition.
On the importance of career development for queer people…
Employment and career advancement are vital to living a fulfilling and independent life. Center Works [the organization’s career services arm] addresses fundamental aspects of economic stability and personal growth for LGBTQ+ individuals. We empower our community members with the opportunities needed to secure meaningful work and ultimately improve their quality of life. It also affords our staff the ability to help community members navigate environments that may not be as affirming as The Center.
On financially uplifting queer people…
Economic stability directly impacts one’s ability to live authentically and securely. Many LGBTQ+ people face discrimination and barriers that limit their economic opportunities, which can lead to higher rates of poverty, homelessness, and mental health issues. By bolstering personal economies, we help mitigate these challenges, reduce reliance on public resources, and enable individuals to thrive.
On ambition…
To any queer person who feels like ambition is out of reach, I want to say that your identity and experiences are your strengths, not your limitations. Ambition is not confined to a specific background or identity—it’s about having the courage to dream and the determination to pursue those dreams. Surround yourself with supportive communities, seek out mentors, and take advantage of resources available to you, including those offered at The Center. Your ambition is valid and you have the right to own it. Claim your space and know that your goals are achievable. I am living proof!
On perseverance…
I’ve definitely felt held back by societal expectations and discrimination in my life. Support from my family, my partner, mentors, and members of the community kept me going. I drew strength from my experiences and used them as fuel to drive my aspirations. Staying true to my values and surrounding myself with positive influences helped me stay motivated. It’s also important to celebrate small victories along the way and to remind yourself that progress, no matter how incremental, is still progress.
On dressing confidently…
When I feel comfortable and authentic, it makes a positive impact on my self-esteem. I notice a certain swagger when my clothes reflect the different aspects of my personality. When my professional wardrobe aligns with my personal style, I can navigate any space with confidence and assertiveness. It allows me to focus on my goals and responsibilities without being distracted by discomfort or self-consciousness.
On working with The Center…
Through Center Works’ GET IT Fellowship, I was placed in and coached through an internship at JPMorgan Chase. The fellowship gave me so many professional and personal growth opportunities. I’m also a lot more confident than I’ve ever been. In the past year, I’ve been presented with opportunities that I don’t think I would’ve ever let myself dream of.
On leveling the playing field…
As QTPOC [Queer and Trans People of Color] who sit on the margins of race, sexuality, and gender identity, we often have to navigate professional settings without a lot of support. I have coworkers whose family members work with them and guide them through the unspoken rules of the corporate world. For those of us who don’t have that support system, it can feel like walking through the dark. Career services programs at The Center help us navigate unfamiliar terrain.
On ambition…
We’re all graced with ambition, but society tries to disconnect us from it by telling us that our dreams are unrealistic or unachievable. People will gawk at your audacity to dream big. Let them. Keep believing and surrounding yourself with folks who believe in your abilities even when you don’t. Give the world the opportunity—and the honor—to see your ambition in full force.
On the importance of a support system…
Over the past year, I’ve assembled a personal “Board of Directors”, a group of mentors and colleagues who give me advice on my professional and personal journey. They give me a nonjudgmental space to work through my fears and anxieties and come up with a plan of action. They also ground and give me feedback—what I’m doing well and where I can improve. I feel supported in everything I do. I know I’ll never have to face hardships without their sage advice.
On dressing confidently…
A well-planned outfit boosts my confidence to a whole new level. The right clothes help me feel powerful in an unfamiliar environment. Whether it’s facilitating panel discussions, making presentations, or networking —all high hurdles for an introvert like me—clothes can make me feel confident and push me to step up in the workplace. Plus, life is full of curveballs and it doesn't hurt to look fabulous while I’m catching.