We’re thrilled to spotlight Tina Darmohray as our June Volunteer of the Month! Since 2021, Tina has supported Fellows at San José State University, volunteering as a returning Leadership Coach and a Mock Interviewer. Her commitment is rooted in a deeply personal belief in the power of education to transform lives.
The roots of Tina’s commitment go back to her father, who was orphaned at ten and put himself through college alongside Tina’s mother. This journey changed everything for their family.
“Similar to what inspired me to volunteer with Braven, I’m committed to equal access to educational opportunities,” Tina shares. “All these programs — Berkeley Hope Scholars, Teach for America, KIPP Schools, and Braven — align with my personal and professional values to create equal opportunity, both in classrooms and boardrooms.”
Volunteering with Braven has shaped Tina both personally and professionally. “More connections, more perspectives, and I’ve certainly experienced that via working with the Fellows, she says. Hearing directly from Fellows, she’s noticed recurring themes: the expectations their families have of them and the fear of not getting interviews or not getting hired in a difficult labor market.
The most meaningful part is following along on Fellows’ journeys and watching them prove the possible. “I love it when a Fellow updates me with an accomplishment, whether it’s more confidence during an interview, successfully networking, landing a job opportunity, or being accepted to grad school,” she shares. “I also love working with the Braven staff and Professor of Record; everyone is aligned and working to help Braven’s Fellows.”
At the center of her mentorship approach is a simple, actionable philosophy: “I try to meet people where they are, identify where I can add value, and leave them with action items to get them further along towards their goals.”
Her advice to Fellows reflects the same spirit of encouragement she brings to every coaching conversation: “You are not alone, you are not the only one to face challenges, and you have a lot to contribute… so keep going!”
Thank you, Tina, for continuing to show up, giving back to the next generation of leaders, and reminding Fellows that their persistence is their greatest asset.
