By: Amira Ahles, MU Student and NWSP Intern
From the moment you meet Va, you will notice that she is incredibly kind, bubbly, and always has a great story to share. Whether she’s talking about her experiences abroad, her work, or her dog Cookie, Va brings warmth and perspective into every conversation that you have with her.
Va joined Near West Side Partners four weeks ago, but she already feels like a natural part of the team. Originally from Milwaukee’s south side, she enjoys being back home and loves how connected the Near West Side community feels. “People really know each other here,” shared Va.
Va’s journey has taken her beyond Milwaukee. She studied marketing and international business as an undergraduate at Marquette University in Wisconsin before pursuing a master’s in Social Innovation from the University of Cambridge, Judge School of Business. Her passion for making a difference led her into international development, where she focused on supporting vulnerable communities, improving gender equality, and helping people build professional skills.
Before joining NWSP, Va worked in Laos for 9 years, helping young girls learn digital marketing, accounting, leadership, financial management, and even health education. Through this experience, she developed a strong belief: she’s not there to solve problems for people, but to help them build their own skills and create sustainable solutions.
Her experience in Laos is also personal. Va’s parents are from Laos, along with friends. She has lived and worked abroad, including at the United Nations, which has shaped how she understands poverty and inequality. And gave her a completely different lens, which is important for her to create change that includes everyone, not just those who already have opportunities.
At Near West Side Partners (NWS), Va is working as an Economic Development Specialist with a focus on housing and neighborhood development. She is especially passionate about helping people understand homeownership and making spaces truly feel like home. Right now, she is learning about housing resources, real estate development, and how residential projects come together and she’s very excited about giving out home repair grants.
“Making neighborhoods more beautiful isn’t just about appearance,” Va said. “It reduces crime and brings people together.” She’s eager to help distribute resources that will improve homes and strengthen the entire community of the NWS.
Va was drawn to this work because of her belief in opportunity. She shared that she wouldn’t be where she is today 
without people who believed in her and supported her growth. Now, she wants to do the same for others. “Creating change means lifting everyone,” she said. “It only works if we all move forward together.”
Outside of work, Va enjoys spending time with her dog, Cookie, a Pomeranian mix who loves walks along the paths at South Shore Park. One of her favorite things to do is watch the sunset over the city, a reminder of how much she loves Milwaukee and the community she’s now helping to build.
Va is excited about what’s ahead, and we’re just as excited to have her here. Welcome to Near West Side Partners, Va, we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make and the many stories you will share!
