Joana Raquel De Sousa, MPA on LinkedIn: And this adventure continues... I am the captain of my soul, and it is… | 26 comments (2024)

I’m a Public Servant… To me, a public servant, is one who forges meaningful connects with people, processes, systems, knowledge, and oneself. As I reflect on my first half of my fellowship with the City of Napa I’m cherishing the many “firsts” in local government that have deepened these integral connections.My first administrative regulation, my first presentation to council, my first coordinated meeting, my first coffee cup with a colleague, my first evaluation, my first local government conference, my first mentor, my first “aha” moment, my first ride-along, my first opportunity to educate the public on local government, my many firsts which have further connected me to my sense of purpose to my community, and the collective good.My hands on-experience in policy development, project management, grant writing, AI exploration, contract management, Purchasing and Contract processes, Budget work, community engagement and so many other impactful experiences has given me a deeper understanding of the municipal inner-workings and governance. I am very thankful for the people in my corner, my colleagues, the City of Napa leaders, my mentors, and my SF State Master of Public Administration program professors, who all have given me a front-row seat to this amazing experience. A heartfelt thank you!Each “aha” moment, each opportunity to learn, to absorb and educate, and each chance to contribute my perspective has further strengthened my connection to the community I serve.Admiring this adventure that I am in!#publicservant #SFSUMPA #SoontobeMPAGraduate

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See the great work the SFSU ICMA Student Chapter is doing! Great speakers coming together! “The #ICMA-SFSU Chapter would like to invite all San Francisco State University students to this #BIPOC Zoom event on April 23 at 5.15 pm! ICMA-SFSU is the student network that can connect YOU with hundreds of mentors and free resources leading to a career in city and county management. Join us now and let us know your professional aspirations! Send a note to the Chapter president at: sfsuicma@gmail.com”

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I'm incredibly grateful to the League of California Cities for awarding me a scholarship to attend the recent City Managers Conference held this week in Los Angeles and provide the platform to meet an amazing group of MPA students sharing similar aspirations in Local Government. This opportunity has also not only enriched my understanding but also allowed me to connect with inspiring leaders and City managers in California. Apryl Tovar Heidi Flores A special thank you to the conference organizers, speakers, mentors and fellow attendees who made this event both educational and memorable. Your dedication to public service and community development is truly motivating.#CityManagement #PublicService #Gratitude #ProfessionalDevelopment

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I had the privilege of attending the Municipal Management Association of Northern California (MMANC - Municipal Management Association of Northern California) conference, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring. The speakers were simply amazing, fun, and they shared invaluable insights. Moreover, I want to express my deep appreciation for the mentors(Jessica Deakyne and Liz Habkirk) who have been instrumental in my journey. One standout moment was a survey question posed during one of the sessions: "What would make you want to stay in local government throughout your career?" The resounding answers were "purpose" and "culture." Reinforcing the idea that a sense of purpose and a nurturing, inclusive culture are paramount to those in public service. Huge thanks to MMANC for organizing this fantastic event.#MMANC#PublicService#LocalGovernment#CommunityAdvocates

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Discover the passion, dedication, and community spirit that drives us, and be part of a vibrant network where learning and growth thrive! Meet Mikayla!Mikayla Denney

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