Name: Yvette Segura
LT Class Year: 2016
Company Name: Vice President/General Manager, USAA (ret.)
- Tell us, why LTA?
My experience with LT was one of the best of my professional career and I have found LTA to be the perfect way to stay connected to my class and to other LT alums. I moved to Tampa 7 years ago and, from the beginning, the Chamber members have embraced me and welcomed me into the community. The diversity of the LT classes allows us to get to know leaders from around Tampa Bay who represent so many different industries, companies and walks of life. LTA has been a continuation of that experience. It provides the perfect opportunity to stay engaged with our fellow classmates while also working together to lift our community. - For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?
I’ve previously mentioned how much I enjoyed the diverse makeup of our LT classes. However, what truly sets this program apart is the inclusive environment that is created, nurtured and then continued throughout the program because of LTA. Growing up in a military family, I was always used to being welcomed into a new community but the experience was different when I began moving around the country in my professional career. The various leadership programs that I’ve had the privilege of being a part of have not usually found a way to create an ongoing connection in the same way that LTA has done. The camaraderie and connections that were established in LT can continue easily, and even grow, through LTA. All you have to do is stay involved. - Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
Becoming a mentor in the Emerging Leaders mentor/Protégé program has been my best experience. At the end of LT, we were encouraged to become mentors of these young professionals. Little did I know that this would be one of my favorite activities with the Chamber. I have met some incredible leaders and, while I attempt to leave them with some little nugget of wisdom, I have always walked away from the experience having learned so much and gaining such an incredible respect for our younger generation of leaders. Throughout my time as a mentor, I’ve used my relationships with LTA classmates to get their tips on how they mentor or share some of my own experiences - all for the purpose of helping one another and, ultimately being better mentors to our protégés. It’s encouraging to see so many LTA members take advantage of this wonderful program and impart their leadership lessons year over year. And, yes, I know this is not actually a LTA event or program but it sure feels like it when you attend the kickoff and closing receptions. I highly recommend this program and encourage everyone to sign up. - What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
The biggest and best benefit for me has been the continued networking and relationship building that LTA affords. I continue to learn so much from my classmates. Every time I reconnect with my peers at an event, I’m reminded of what makes this program so special. And it always comes back to the people. These relationships and connections are the secret sauce that keep me coming back to LTA and have me looking forward to the next event. - Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you?
I know that because of LTA I will continue to evolve as a leader. It’s a result of the whole LTA experience with the programs and the people, but mostly the people.
To nominate a member for an upcoming #LTAFamous feature, please contact Laura Frost