Heather Yomboro
What’s your “superpower,” and how does it help you serve our community?
Superpower #1 – Being curious about everything. I always want to know more – how do things work, who’s doing what, and why? Being curious leads to a greater understanding and is usually the first step to problem solving.
Superpower #2 – I’m fluent in Spanish. Being able to communicate with Spanish speaking community members in their own language is a great way to build relationships and trust.
What inspired you to get involved with this organization, and what keeps you motivated?
I lived in North Linden for 9 years and worked at the Northern Lights Library. My children went to school there. My Family continues to be connected to this
neighborhood and the community we found.
Linden is made up of wonderful people and businesses, and I am motivated to see Linden receive the investment and positive attention that other Columbus
neighborhoods have.
If you had to explain your professional background without using job titles, what would you say you do?
My professional background is eclectic but has centered on learning and teaching, creativity, problem-solving and helping people. At Ohio Statewide Development, I have helped create processes and procedures to streamline lending operations, delved deep into small business underwriting and government lending programs, and learned how to manage our own small business – including teaching myself bookkeeping (yikes!). In my current role, I am enjoying dreaming up new and better ways to help small businesses access the capital they need to grow.
What’s one challenge in our community you care deeply about, and how do you hope your role on the board helps address it?
I hope my role on the Board can help address investment in Linden, especially renovation or revitalization of commercial buildings and ensuring existing small businesses have a say in and benefit from investment. I’d like Ohio Statewide Development Corporation to work with LEDA to offer resources and education to small business owners, as well as make real commitment to financing small business projects in the area.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you that influences how you show up as a board member?
I am part of an improv comedy troupe at The Nest Theatre in Columbus. We make social commentary through art and have a lot of fun! Major tenets of improv comedy are being present, listening, and moving forward together. This is how I try to show up in the world.