As a team member of #LifeAtPetSmart for over 25 years, Montserrat has helped to make a positive impact in 5 different roles. As a motivating leader, she makes PetSmart better—and was kind enough to share her story of Belonging with us! Read on below to kick off our celebration of Women's History Month.
The Belonging Program’s “I Belong” Series harnesses the power of empathy through storytelling. This series is intended to give associates a greater sense of understanding, a bridge to gain new perspective, and a way to build connection to each other. To learn more about the “I Belong” Series or to submit your stories, associates can visit PetSmart's Belonging Fetch Page.
Meet Montserrat | Regional Vice President, Field Operations, PacWest, 25 years with PetSmart
March is Women's History Month. As I take the time to think about Women's History Month and what it means to me, I can't help but think about a very special woman who influenced me and millions of others in the world. Who is this amazing person, you might ask? Well, it's Jane Goodall.
Jane Goodall is considered the world's foremost expert on Chimpanzees. She has done remarkable work in Tanzania for over 50 years, authored countless books, founded institutions, and spearheaded landmark research. Jane brought the world of the Chimpanzees to life, highlighting their similarities and struggles.
I was lucky enough to meet and talk with Jane on several occasions while growing up in California. At the time, my father was writing one of his many books on evolution and primates. Through this research, he met Jane, and we often would see her speak at conferences. Jane was a woman I have admired since I first met her at the age of 9. She was humble, but through her tenacity, wit, and most importantly, passion, she changed the world for primates. She told me once, "you might be just a little girl to some, but you are a force to be reckoned with." She truly cemented this in my mind: whatever I decided to do with my life would involve supporting wildlife, animals, and pets.
So fast forward to the present day, and what I am doing? Where did I become the "force to be reckoned with" that Jane saw in me? Where do I belong? You guessed it, PetSmart. It was a match in the truest sense of the word. Our vision: "We believe pets make us better people!" Well, in my case, it makes me who I am.
I have learned that one person can make a small difference. I've also learned it's a WIN when you match the most important value of who you are with a business that shares the same value. Because of PetSmart and our outstanding teams, I know I have an army of associates alongside me with the same beliefs who will help pets have a voice in this world. Our teams recommend the best solutions for millions of pets, save pets' lives, and strengthen the bond between pets and pet parents.
I can't think of a better place to let my passion shine through than PetSmart, and I appreciate Jane for her profound impact on my life. I think if Jane knew the impact she had on me, she would tell us all to be a "force to be reckoned with."
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