This month’s spotlight is Wintta Woldemariam. Wintta currently serves as Policy Director to James E. Clyburn, U.S. House Majority Whip and Chairman of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. Read more to learn about Wintta, and her incredible path in government, politics and public service

Could you briefly explain some of your responsibilities in your current career role? 

My role is mostly negotiating legislation with Members of Congress and their staff and hearing out the views and perspectives of advocates who are exercising their right to petition their government. 

You are currently the Policy Director for Congressman Clyburn; what are some of the critical issues facing Congress? 

There are so many issues that impact us as Eritrean-Americans every day that Congress has influence over. From the pandemic response to economic security to immigration reform to whether we have sufficient broadband access to work and learn from home, Congressmembers play the important role of amplifying the voices of their constituents.   

You’ve had a long career within the Federal government. How did you get into your current field, and how did you seek opportunities that helped you grow and develop? 

I have always been interested in government, politics and public service. I moved to Washington immediately after graduating and sought out internships and advice from those whose backgrounds, values and stories resonated with me. I work hard to make sure that I am always learning from my colleagues, including peers and those junior and senior to me. 

What skills have you found vital to your job? 

The ability to listen, be an advocate and a willingness to compromise.

What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your career? 

The most rewarding part of my job is helping others and the most challenging aspect is that public service often requires sacrifices that the public does not get to see. 

How do you stay motivated and goal-oriented? 

I stay positive and goal oriented by regularly reminding myself of all of the people, my family and otherwise, whose sacrifices I benefit from every day. It is difficult to be negative when you are led by a spirit of gratitude! 

To date, what is your greatest professional accomplishment? 

My greatest professional accomplishments have been working as a lawyer for President Barack Obama at the White House, for both of the first two African American Attorneys General, Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch, at the Department of Justice and for Majority Whip James Clyburn.

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone looking to transition into your line of work? 

Have patience with yourself and to treat everyone you encounter with courtesy and respect.

Outside of all of your hard work and professional efforts, what do you do for fun? Hobbies? 

I spend my free time with my husband, preparing for the arrival of our son, and practicing photography!

How did you come to decide that this was the right career path for you? 

I gravitated towards the subjects that have excited me and turned it into my career. I think if you fortunate enough to align your purpose and your passion, then you will find yourself very pleased with the professional life you can create.