The Working Moms Spotlight Series in partnership with Just Ask Boo, is an Editorial Series dedicated to showcasing standout working moms in Miami who are making an impact in their spheres of influence, and who empower those around them to shine too.
This month’s candidate is Natalia Zea, a local mom who has a lot to teach us about the value of focus and perseverance. In her position as Director of Community Outreach for Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the fourth largest school district in the nation, Natalia oversees the “Dade Partners” program. This program is working to strategically implement and maintain long-standing partnerships between Miami-Dade County Public Schools and corporations, small business, government entities, funders, community-based organizations and community leaders.
Natalia also manages the M-DCPS honors Academic Year Internship Program for more than 1,000 high school juniors and seniors. She oversees the tribute to new inductees in the M-DCPS Alumni Hall of Fame, and she worked as an integral part of the M-DCPS team which initially facilitated “Together for Children”, a collaborative community movement to reduce youth violence. In addition, she contributes in various ways to the communications messaging of M-DCPS.
Before making the move to M-DCPS, Natalia spent 14 years as a television news reporter and anchor, covering everything from politics to crime to hurricanes – including covering Katrina from New Orleans. She spent 10 of those years at CBS Miami, where she worked to give the viewer action steps they could take after seeing an impactful story.
Few of the stories she covered, however, were as impactful as her own. When you meet her you learn quickly that Natalia is fierce, warm, driven, professional to the core, confident, and unapologetic. Without further ado, it is our great pleasure to introduce Natalia Zea…
Natalia, thank you for joining us as our April Spotlight. Can you describe the nature of your work as the Director of Community Outreach for Miami-Date County Public Schools?
Certainly, as the Director of Community Outreach I work to secure partnerships with our public schools that support student academic achievement at all levels.
What inspired you to make the shift from television to the current role you are in with Miami-Date County Schools?
After a 14-year career in television news, including 10 years at CBS Miami, I chose to change careers and join M-DCPS because I wanted to contribute more to South Florida and build projects that make a meaningful difference for young people in our community.
Where do you draw inspiration and do you have a mentor?
My mom is my mentor. She is my guide, confidant, and counselor. I am still a news junkie and keep up-to-date at all times with what is happening in South Florida. This helps ensure I am aware of current political landscapes and opportunities that will support new partnerships and projects to benefit our schools.
What’s the most creative thing you’ve ever done?
I would say creating two adorable little humans has been my most creative work to date!
Motherhood is certainly a a creative accomplishment that we can all celebrate! What message or advice would you share with women who are a few years behind you, professionally?
I would encourage women to never sell yourself short or think there is something you can’t do. In general, I believe men tend to approach professional opportunities as something that was intended for them or to which they have a right. Women also need to seize those professional opportunities and know clearly that they are meant to be there. There is no time for self-doubt. Push forward.
Can you share with us an example of an obstacle you’ve overcome and how you overcame it?
In a previous TV news job (not in Miami) I consistently covered stories and issues on the Southern border. However, when an opportunity presented itself to travel to Washington D.C. and cover a Congressional bill pertaining to my border stories, my news director at the time determined I didn’t have the “right look” to be sent to the Capitol. He sent a Caucasian, male reporter in my place. I overcame it by remaining professional, continuing to show my strong work ethic, and obtained several job offers in larger television markets – one of which was Miami. Leaving for bigger and better opportunities was the best decision I could have made.
It definitely takes grit and tenacity to move forward but it’s always worth it. Your story is proof of that. Tell us how being a mother influenced your role in business?
Being a mother has helped me become more balanced and not focus nearly entirely on work. It helps me not worry as much about small mistakes that I used to get upset about; because my priorities are put in perspective when I am home taking care of my kids.
What are the challenges and rewards you have encountered as a working Mom?
Challenge – Time management! As a single mom, it’s not easy being there for school events and activities and pick-ups and drop-offs while managing a full-time career. Some days I feel like I will never catch my breath. But I am setting an example for my kids that you can have a career you care about and a family. They are not mutually exclusive.
What advice would you give a Mom who is considering stepping back into the workforce or to the Mom who dreams of starting her own business?
A very smart woman told me once, “Being a working mom means guilt on all sides.” That is a natural tendency most of us moms have, whether working or not. The best thing we can do is acknowledge the guilt exists and move forward anyway. If you are the kind of mom who worries that she is doing a good job, it stands to reason that you are.
What resources do you recommend for women in business?
I would encourage involvement in Chambers of Commerce and social giving communities through organizations like United Way. Continually developing new authentic relationships with other professionals is everything.
What resources do you recommend for Moms?
I recommend JustAskBoo and Just Ask Domestic Help – for nannies, babysitters and household help. It has helped me tremendously through the years.
What’s your favorite go-to spot for “me” time in Miami?
Before it closed, Tarpon Bend in Coral Gables was a favorite meaningful place for me, both solo, with friends, and with my kids.
What words of wisdom do you live by?
My mom’s two words of advice that she has given me since I was a kid: Be resourceful.
Name 3 things that make you smile, life’s simple joys:
Cuddle time with my kiddos, a great rock-and-roll song, a tranquil afternoon of paddle boarding.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
Exploring a new country where I don’t speak the language. I’m due for a vacation!
Well, it definitely sounds like you have earned it.
Natalia, thank you for your time and for being an example to Miami-Dade students and women throughout Miami and beyond. As a mother it is encouraging to know that there are strong women who are also mothers working hard to serve our children and the local school system. We are grateful for your impact.
Read previous Working Moms Spotlights by clicking the links below.
September Spotlight: Melissa Medina
October Spotlight: Camila Canabal
November Spotlight: Carolyn Mara
January Spotlight: Elizabeth Simonton and Nichole Aldrich
February Spotlight: Meredith Kallaher
March Spotlight: The Mom Economy
