“I always wanted to be a leader and help others, but my shyness stopped me. Now that I have the confidence, I am able to use all that I know to help others achieve the same goals.“
Lismarie Santiago (they/her)
Graduated: 2019, Cohort 19
From: Marlboro Houses, Brooklyn
Current Position: Field Supervisor, The Horticultural Society of New York
We Green the In-Between by creating greenspaces and gardens that engage people on their sidewalks, in public plazas and open streets, and anywhere plants are otherwise missing. On the ground, plant by plant, we transform neighborhoods, homeless shelters and nursing homes, schools and even jails. We support all people in their quest to improve their lives and communities with urban horticulture.
Tell us about your current role and daily responsibilities.
“Ideally doing a walk through, getting a scope of the work – I assess outdoor spaces to identify opportunities for improvement, then create a plan to transform them into welcoming and sustainable areas for gardening, recreation, and community building. Helping and teaching others with tasks (opportunities for growth) and leading by example.”
Describe your career pathway. How has your GCF experience helped you?
“Being an alumni of GCF, Gardner at ‘John Mini Distinctives’ and Tree Analyst at GCF, all prepared me for this role. My experience with GCF prepared me for this career pathway by allowing me to grow and making me be held accountable for time and attendance. I am more self-aware and cautious with my decision making. Being surrounded by leaders really brought me out of my social shell. I always wanted to be a leader and help others, but my shyness stopped me. Now that I have the confidence, I am able to use all that I know to help others achieve the same goals.”
What advice do you have for current Corps Members and other Alumni?
“Constructive criticism really helped me get where I am. Although you may not feel it resonates with you, it’s amazing what a different perspective can do. Self-reflection and evaluations are important. Remain positive that this only helps you become a better you.”
Achievements at GCF:
“[Receiving certifications for] OSHA 10, GPRO, and [receiving GCF’s] Sustainability Award and an [AmeriCorps] education award that I actually used towards getting my driver’s license.”
What’s your favorite GCF memory?
“My favorite GCF memory was of course the call and responses – where team members motivated each other to keep thriving.”
GRADUATION TESTIMONY:
“During my time with Green City Force I practiced a lifestyle I’ve only heard of, I invested my time and began to enjoy what I was learning. Creating life became very fascinating for me and in many ways also was therapeutic. My brother was in the Cohort before me and he was excelling wonderfully while I was stuck trying to get jobs on online apps. I was unhappy and desperate, so I decided to join as well. It was actually the last day to apply so I’m grateful that I made up my mind at the right time. As I was going to the GCF space for my interviews, I had my fingers crossed the whole time hoping they had seen what I had to bring to the table. My Team Leader Precious Colon really pushed me, she understood me, and is someone I looked up to. She is strong and I wanted to be on her team so bad because I loved how hard she was on me. At the time I appreciated how much she believed in me and I wanted to be coached. She helped me with my time management and gave me examples on how I should portray myself because I was isolated and quiet. Now that I am out of my shell I gained my OSHA-10, GPRO certification, and the knowledge I need to have to continue in agriculture. I want to continue to work on plant life and grow with learning. I hope one day to have my own house and garden to continue giving back to my community. I hope to continue the practice of unity for everyone else who is lost.”
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