Nabila Hussain, a data analyst working for the Ship Maintenance Data Improvement Initiative at Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Corona Division, recently spoke about her achievements and how her Indian heritage has inspired her to see the world from a new lens.
In an interview posted to the U.S. Navy website, Hussain said, “My heritage definitely inspires and shapes the way I see the world. Until recently, I hadn't seen many people who looked like me in the media, especially being an Indian Muslim woman.”
Hussain revealed that she performs rituals and customs to stay connected to her roots. “This includes traditional attire and jewelry, folk songs sung at weddings, recipes, prayers, and stories, all of which have been passed down generations," she elaborated.
The chemical engineering graduate from the University of California, San Diego in 2017, aims to create a knowledgeable workplace. In her current role, she is responsible for mentoring new employees and helping them achieve their goals.
According to her, a diverse workplace thrives on people's ability to respect and learn from other's perspectives. “Some people see you as facets of your identity, not factoring in the intersectionality of them and how they meld together.”
“As a society, it is integral to support diversity of thought. The status quo should be something challenged, and improvements should be encouraged,” the Indian American emphasized adding that she aims to mentor the new employees in a way of growing a more open and knowledgeable workplace.
