We’re shining the spotlight on Natalia Tu, our 2021-22 Weitz Fellow. She graduated from Carleton College in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and anthropology and a minor in Chinese. At Carleton, Natalia volunteered at the local Safeline and served as a campus advocate for those impacted by sexual assault and harassment. She is passionate about trauma-informed systems-based solutions, and looks forward to building upon her previous experiences by working on the Freedom from Violence initiative at the Women’s Fund.
We chatted with Natalia and asked her a few questions about what it’s been like working at the Women’s Fund so far, and what she likes to do outside of work.
What’s your favorite part of working at the Women’s Fund?
It’s exciting to work with a group of people who are community-focused and passionate about and committed to the organization’s mission.
Describe the Women’s Fund in three words?
Generous. Intentional. Energetic.
Best thing about living/working in Omaha?
I haven’t been in Omaha for long, but I love that there is anything you might want all within a 10-minute drive. Plus, the food here is amazing.
When you’re not working, what’s your favorite thing to do?
I really enjoy getting outdoors and exploring new areas to hike or run. Recently, I’ve also been trying to cook more and perfect my chicken adobo recipe.
What’s one goal you hope to accomplish in the next year?
I’d like to learn more about the intricacies of policymaking and how nonprofits operate. Outside of work, I’m hoping to learn how to make kombucha!
What’s the most interesting or unusual job you’ve ever done?
I worked at the library in college, processing new books and preparing them for shelving. It was always fun to get a sneak peak of all the new materials, and I have a long list of books I’d like to read at some point because of it.
What are you listening to these days?
I’ve been enjoying Khruangbin, Joanna Serenko and Burna Boy.
If Hollywood made a movie about you, who would you like to see cast as you?
I’d love Noel Cho from Minari to play a young me.