Empowering Impact: A Tell All with Project Glimmer Student Ambassador Calista
Blog Post by Valeria Ballesteros
January 2024
Embark on a journey of empowerment and altruism as we delve into the captivating narrative of Calista Galvao, a dedicated Project Glimmer Student Ambassador. In this illuminating Q&A session, Calista shares her heartfelt insights into the significance of being involved with Project Glimmer. From witnessing the tangible impact on communities to personal growth through Empower Hours, 1:1 career coaching, and initiating a school club, Calista's story is a testament to the transformative power of giving back. Join us as we explore the transformative power of kindness, personal growth, and community impact through the eyes of Calista in this engaging conversation.
Why is it important for you to be involved with Project Glimmer?
Calista: After dropping off a box of beauty products my [school] club had packaged, it opened my eyes up to the effect that Project Glimmer gifts have on the community. While something like a face mask can be taken for granted, I have learned to be grateful. Project Glimmer’s mission isn’t just words, it is gracefully executed and I have witnessed that in my personal experiences and seeing what it does for others. By being involved, you are making an impact on people’s lives and it is in an uplifting manner.
Please share how you’ve benefited from Project Glimmer.
Calista: Project Glimmer has allowed me to hear from many different successful women. The Empower Hours have given me an inside look at how these women became successful and their struggles along the way. I was able to meet with a Project Glimmer volunteer for 1:1 Career Coaching and get advice as well. Project Glimmer has helped me grow as a person and gain confidence to speak up for myself and begin networking. I have been able to use what Project Glimmer has taught me to make connections and continue to grow professionally.
What do you most look forward to as a Project Glimmer Ambassador?
Calista: As a Project Glimmer Student Ambassador I am always looking forward to what new opportunities have been introduced in the next Student Ambassador season. For example, we can now write letters to include in each gift we package in our Boxing Joy volunteer kits. It excites me to see the growth happening in the organization while being an ambassador.
What steps have you taken to promote Project Glimmer within your network?
Calista: While being a Project Glimmer Student Ambassador I have made sure to post about the mission and opportunities to get involved. However, the greatest step I have taken to promote Project Glimmer has been starting my own club at my school. At our first meeting we had over 150 people attend and watch one of the Sephora Empower Hours. Our club was also able to package gifts prior to the Christmas season. Everyone I have shared Project Glimmer with at school immediately wants to get involved and it has been amazing seeing their reactions while I tell them about it.
What message do you have for aspiring Project Glimmer Student Ambassadors?
Calista: For aspiring Project Glimmer Student Ambassadors I would say take advantage of all opportunities that come along with it. I began by volunteering at the warehouse on my weekends and since then have been able to participate in 1:1 Career Coaching and start my own club. Being an ambassador offers many resources and I have been able to contact Danielle (PG Program Manager) with any questions I’ve had while introducing Project Glimmer to my school community.
About You
Can you share a little about yourself (upbringing, education)?
Calista: Growing up, school has always been very important to me. When I was 8 years old I would be researching college majors and watching college acceptance videos on YouTube. I grew up modeling and acting which I feel altered my mindset to more mature thinking at a young age. I was having to make professional decisions such as going on class field trips or going to auditions, and this ultimately taught me the importance of opportunity. Family has always been important to me and my favorite memories are going out to dinner with my grandpa. I am grateful to have a close family and access to a high quality education.
Can you share an obstacle you've overcome (personally or professionally) and how you got through it?
Calista: After doing classical ballet for 10 years of my life, covid hit as soon as I was able to dance on pointe. I was not allowed to take classes on pointe at home and I had to wait until I could return back to the studio. As a ballerina you are working in order to gain the strength and poise to dance on pointe, not being able to take the classes was upsetting. I wanted to continue performing for people and when I entered high school I became a cheerleader. This was my way to continue to dance and perform as I always had.
Who was your biggest mentor/advocate growing up?
Calista: My biggest advocate has always been my mom. Since I was young she has encouraged me and made sure I know my potential. My mom has been my greatest support and she inspires me everyday.