Skip to main content

Celebrating LGBTQIA Diversity at the SFMTA

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Diversity at the SFMTA
By Enrique Aguilar

A man smiles in front of a picture of a three people with one of them in a wheelchair in front of an elevator.Yves standing in front of a photo of his father at the SFMTA headquarters.

This Pride Month, we are spotlighting some incredible people who work tirelessly behind the scenes at the SFMTA and are part of the agency's LGBTQIA+ community. Their dedication, passion and unique perspectives contribute to the success of our transportation system, making it a true reflection of the diverse customers we serve. 

Yves Michael C. Valdez is an HR Analyst for Employee and Labor Relations and is passionate about helping others. Outside of work, Yves is an avid gardener who has cultivated a collection of dwarf Japanese maples, succulents and orchids. 

Several key motivations led Yves to the SFMTA. He relied on public transit when he moved to San Francisco from the Philippines, and that left a lasting impression on him. The daily interactions and unique experiences of passengers, sometimes filled with drama, comedy and suspense, captured his attention and created a sense of connection with the city’s diverse population. His father's career as a fare inspector at the SFMTA instilled a sense of pride and purpose, inspiring him to follow in his footsteps and contribute to the agency that had provided so much for his family. 

Yves emphasizes the significant impact the SFMTA has had on his life and how it allowed him to leave the private sector for a career in public service. Despite not getting a job with the agency the first time he applied, Yves was eventually hired and embarked on an incredible roller coaster ride of growth and learning as he navigates the nuances of interacting with such a diverse workforce every day. 

Yves has collaborated with colleagues to revamp the tuition reimbursement process for service-critical union members, streamlining the system and ensuring fair access to educational opportunities. His work on preparing and presenting reports to the Civil Service Commission also showcases his expertise during the pressure of such important meetings. 

Yves also has gone above and beyond by taking the initiative to process Public Service Loan Forgiveness for SFMTA employees. He recognizes the stress associated with student loans and sees the importance of supporting his colleagues through this process. 

Beyond his “regular” job duties, smaller, heartfelt moments truly resonate with Yves. Whether assisting a retiree with their Transit pass sticker, helping an employee secure a Family Friendly Workplace Ordinance approval, or simply surprising someone with an afternoon ice cream treat, the gratitude and notes of appreciation he receives from individuals make Yves smile. He believes the richness of public service lies not in financial gain, but in the personal fulfillment derived from positively impacting others' lives. 

Yves’ journey at the SFMTA exemplifies the power of diversity and inclusion. It reminds us that by embracing diversity and inclusion, the agency can connect people physically and in spirit, creating a stronger and more vibrant community for everyone.  

Watch an interview video with Yves to learn more about his experiences, motivations, and proud moments. We’ll also be spotlighting other LGTBTQIA+ staff in an upcoming blog. 



Published June 17, 2023 at 02:23AM
https://ift.tt/pUb1FW7
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

150 Years Ago Today – The Cable Car is Born

150 Years Ago Today – The Cable Car is Born By Kelley Trahan August 2, 2023, marks the 150th anniversary of the world’s first successful cable railway, born right here in San Francisco. To celebrate the occasion, we bring you the story of Andrew Hallidie and the very first cable car company, the Clay Street Hill Railroad.  Andrew Hallidie (1834-1900) was a pioneering inventor and entrepreneur who changed urban transportation. In 1852, at the age of 18, Hallidie emigrated with his father from the United Kingdom to San Francisco during the California Gold Rush. His father, an engineer and inventor, had a wire rope patent that played a crucial role in his son's future success.   Portrait of Andrew Smith Hallidie in 1890. Inspired by his father's wire rope business, Hallidie developed a steel cable mineral mine hauling system in 1857. About a decade later, he designed a wire rope aerial tramway for transporting materials over mountainous terrain. Then, after a stint in bridg...
Post a Comment
NEXT

Shared Spaces are Here to Stay. Permit Renewals are Due January 15, 2023.

Shared Spaces are Here to Stay. Permit Renewals are Due January 15, 2023. By Anne Yalon Shared Spaces, amongst many other benefits, allows our residents and families to enjoy safe and social outdoor dining. Seen here are the the owners of Tio Chilo’s Grill and their children in the restaurant’s parklet on 24th Street in the Mission.  San Francisco’s popular Shared Spaces program allows merchants, restaurants and arts and culture organizations to use the curbside, sidewalk and other public spaces to conduct local business activities and stay afloat. What emerged as an economic lifeline during the pandemic is making San Francisco’s streets more energized, engaged and activated. Many of the Shared Spaces parklets have become central gathering places for the local community. “ Our parklet makes me feel like when I go to Mexico, where outdoor seating is everywhere. People end up joining their friends in our parklet. It is a space for our customers and our community," said Liz V...
Post a Comment
NEXT

Tenderloin Streets Transform During COVID-19

Tenderloin Streets Transform During COVID-19 By Kimberly Leung COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted people who live and work in the Tenderloin. As a result, the SFMTA has been working closely with District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney’s office, other city departments, the Tenderloin Traffic Safety Task Force and community members to address the public health issues and unique challenges in the neighborhood through innovative interventions.    The Tenderloin is home to many of our most vulnerable communities including historically marginalized groups such as people with disabilities, residents of SROs and supportive housing and limited-English proficient communities. With every single street in the Tenderloin on the city’s High Injury Network -- the 13 percent of San Francisco streets that account for 75 percent of severe traffic injury collision and fatalities -- thi...
Post a Comment
NEXT