Dalai Zambrano-Galvis represents what it means to be an emerging leader. After only two years in Berks County, she’s made her presence known to the community through her volunteerism and professional career. “I work at the Reading Public Library as a Bilingual Paraprofessional, where I support the community through educational programs, cultural activities, and by providing access to resources in both English and Spanish.” She’s participated in volunteer projects with several local agencies including Barrio Alegria, Opportunity House, and the Literacy Council.
Dalai decided to join ELU right after moving to Berks County, with a goal of supporting her fellow community members. “I’m passionate about building bridges between the community and the organizations that serve it. It’s not just about sharing information — it’s also about helping people overcome barriers, especially language barriers, so they can truly access what’s available to them.”
When looking to get more involved in your community, Dalai suggests starting with the things you’re most passionate about. Figure out how your talent and skills can help your greater community and go from there. “Starting can feel overwhelming, but once you attend your first volunteer event, you’ll start meeting new people, learning about local organizations, and discovering how many different ways you can contribute.”
Outside of her work in the community, she finds enjoyment in the arts. Specifically, cinema. “I love discovering lesser-known films or watching ones that others recommend. For me, cinema is a beautiful form of art, and there’s nothing better than enjoying a good movie with popcorn.” So next time you see Dalai at an ELU event, don’t be afraid to chat about your favorite movie!