Vanessa Martinez 

Assistant Director, International Community Relations at USF World

What kind of work do you do? 

I work in international community relations for USF World. I’m responsible for connecting USF’s alumni, students, and faculty  internationally, and engaging with our global partners here in Tampa Bay and abroad.

What advice would you give young women entering the “company’s industry” today?

Don’t be afraid to fight for a seat at the table. Nothing is more important than building up your skillset and gaining experience in your field of interest. If your current position does not offer the opportunities you need, don’t hesitate to create something for yourself.

What do you like most about your job/company?

I love the passion that my colleagues and administrators at USF World show for supporting our international students and for the cultivation of global citizenship among all students. We are a team truly dedicated to opening doors worldwide for the transformative growth of our students, scholars, and faculty through international research, international education, and global learning. Everyday I get to work with people from around the world to develop and support innovative solutions to the challenges our communities face.

How long have you been a member of TBOWIT and what drew you to TBOWIT?

I’m a new face at the table this year! I was drawn to TBOWIT by the international focus of the group, but also by the desire to collaborate and link arms with ambitious and impressive women in Tampa Bay. I hope to learn a great deal from your members, and to contribute something positive to the organization myself.

What is one thing you want members to know about you?

My passion for international education extends beyond my work at USF. I also run a small international non-profit called Girl Reports, Inc., dedicated to teaching underserved girls transferable skills through journalism. I consider it a privilege to serve these young women and to provide them a platform for self-expression and empowerment.

What do you love about the Tampa Bay area?

I love that it’s growing so rapidly and that is becoming increasingly diverse.