Katherine Prieto Celis

Psychologist working with clinical assessments for people who may need drug and alcohol treatment

Nomination:

Nominated by Maria Gonzales: " ...She is a psychologist. It cost her a lot to exercise her profession here, due to the same barriers that many immigrants go through. However, in a short time, she sought support in the community and managed not only to shine as a person and professional, but has also served to inspire many immigrants who come to this country. Why she is a hero? Her work is strong, she works with people with serious addictions, and since she is also bilingual, she works with the immigrant community. In her work, she has gone the extra mile: she has worked on her cases in a special way that gives confidence to the people she works with, so that they can have someone who understands, listens, and assures them they are going to receive excellent professional treatment. This MUST be celebrated..."

About Katherine:

Anyone who knows Katherine (or, Kathy as her friends call her) knows that she was born to succeed.

Kathy, a brilliant psychologist and bilingual pet lover, is currently working in an American organization called the Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) of Philadelphia conducting assessments for people who may need drug and alcohol treatment.

Kathy is a native of Colombia who comes from a very strong and loving family. She decided to come to the USA because she was aspiring for a better future, a better job, and a better quality of life for her and her family. This was a difficult decision to make, for she deeply misses her beautiful country.

"Your family might not be there anymore or you might not be able to see your family for a very long time. Yet, you came here for something greater, so I just think it is very brave for immigrants to do that. I just love when immigrants share their stories and to hear they're thriving, it's awesome!"

Embarking on the adventure and overcoming barriers

When Kathy first began looking for work in her region of the United States, it was difficult. Like many other immigrants, her work experiences in her native country held no value in interviews. On top of this, her English was not strong and her network was very limited. She sometimes felt isolated,  but she ultimately overcame all these barriers. 

She began to create her own network, started an English course, and went to libraries to join groups with other immigrants that were facing similar barriers. She made peace with the idea of starting from scratch and creating her own experience. With this, she no longer felt discouraged, and eventually was able to get the job position she currently has. She enjoys her work because it allows her to give back to the community. 

Help the people and the community with passion and commitment

Nowadays, Katherine gives back to the community using her experiences, skills, talents,  and her ability to speak Spanish to help people that can not communicate as strongly. By becoming the bridge, she can help mitigate their barriers.

Katherine is a role model for many immigrants that are overcoming similar barriers and pursuing success in the United States, by helping the community with passion and commitment. 

“So, you might want to start from a little under what you expected, but that doesn't mean that you cannot get to where you want. So, don't feel discouraged” - Katherine

Article by I Belong Philly. Created by Maria Gonzalez, Geórgia Consença, and Cristina Zanoni.

Quotes From Katherine:

"What I think I can do is that I'm gonna be there for people whenever they need me. So, I'm going to be there for you." 

"(On coming to the US) Your family might not be there, you might not be able to see your family for a very long time, but you came here for something greater. So, I just think it is very brave of immigrants to do that. I just love when immigrants share their stories and they're thriving, it's awesome!"