Since joining Digital NEST in July 2023, Gabriela has become a familiar face for youth, families, schools, and community partners throughout Modesto. Whether she’s leading an outreach presentation, welcoming a new member, or checking in with a young person, Gabriela has a way of making people feel comfortable, heard, and encouraged.
Having grown up in Modesto, Gabriela’s work is deeply personal. In her former role as Outreach Coordinator at Modesto NEST, she helped young people discover their interests, develop practical skills, and build community. Today, she continues that mission in her new role as Career Services Specialist.
“Growing up in Modesto, this community played a big role in shaping who I am, so now supporting our local youth and helping create opportunities for their futures feels deeply personal and meaningful,” Gabriela said.
She collaborates with families, schools, and community groups to introduce young people to Digital NEST through presentations, partnerships, and conversations. Her goal is to make sure every young person knows there’s a place where they can learn, grow, and belong.
The Conversations That Matter
If you ask Gabriela about her favorite part of the job, she probably won’t mention the big events or school presentations. Instead, she talks about the conversations that happen in between.
One afternoon, a quick hello to a BizzNEST associate turned into a conversation about career paths, curiosity, and the pressure of figuring out the future. Gabriela shared something she’s learned herself: careers aren’t always linear.
“Curiosity is a compass,” she said. “Trying different roles that seem unrelated but grab your interest is how you gather the pieces that will eventually make sense later.”
Another day, a member asked her, “Are you always happy?”
That simple question led to an honest conversation about emotions, resilience, and wonder that isn’t childish, but childlike. Soon, other members joined in, sharing their own thoughts.
For Gabriela, those impromptu moments often become the most meaningful.
“I’m passionate about supporting youth and building learning environments where people feel seen, capable, and excited to grow,” she said. “A lot of what drives my work comes from understanding how powerful it is to have someone believe in you.”
Bringing Joy to the Modesto NEST
At the Modesto center, Gabriela is known as the unofficial “vibe coordinator.” She believes learning and laughter go hand in hand, and she’s intentional about creating a space where young people feel free to be themselves.
That spirit was recognized this summer when Digital NEST staff voted Gabriela for the Most Spirited award at our annual staff BBQ.
As the 2025-2026 cohort of BizzNEST associates prepares to leave the NEST, Gabriela hopes they leave with more than technical skills.
“I hope they leave here knowing how to find joy and fun in the little things, too. They’ve brought so much light to our space, and I hope they carry that same light wherever they go.”
It’s that balance of encouragement, curiosity, and genuine connection that has made Gabriela such an important part of the Modesto NEST and the community it continues to build.
Help Us Keep the Momentum Going
The impact of Digital NEST is made possible by the dedicated staff and community who believe in our young people. Donate or get involved today to support the team behind our youth and help us create even more opportunities for them to grow, connect, and succeed.
