Yasmin Shaheed

Yasmin Shaheed spent the majority of her career as a project manager and rose up through the ranks. Right now, she is working on multiple projects while searching for her next career opportunity and taking some much-needed time to savor life.

How has it been to have some time for yourself?

It’s been amazing. I’m spending time with my friends and family, which is very important. I’ve also been travelling. Recently, I’ve been to Atlanta, Florida and within the next couple months I’m going to Mexico and Las Vegas. I need to get it all in now! I know I’m not going to have this kind of time freedom forever to do what I want.

You have such a positive attitude. What helps you maintain it?

I look at life as a blessing and I live it to the fullest. I try to be happy all the time. I think we all have a story for our lives and our job is to let the story flow. I’m just relaxing and waiting to see what blessings come my way. I’m so excited for the future and anxious to see where the Lord will lead me next.

Do you have any hobbies?

Working out has been a daily activity for me recently. I love to watch my shows, like Judge Judy and Game of Thrones. I also enjoy spending time alone. I’m a mix between an introvert and an extrovert. I can walk into a room and talk to anybody, but I do like to have my individual time to myself. I’m into reading, and I’m inspired to learn from people. I like reading books about inspirational people, like Michelle Obama. It’s so inspiring to read about people’s lives and witness them being transparent.

Have you always lived in Pittsburgh?

Yes. I was raised in West Mifflin, and now I live in Brighton Heights. I love my neighborhood and feel very safe because I have a few police officers that reside on my street.

What do you love about Pittsburgh?

The sports! I’m a die-hard Steelers fan and I try to get to as many games as I can. Charlie and Latasha Batch are considered my family, so I’m fortunate to be around the Steelers a lot. I met Charlie when he was doing his basketball camp (Project C.H.U.C.K.) in Homestead, where he grew up. I was very interested in volunteering with his foundation and decided to speak with Charlie about his programs. I became more involved with the foundation and am currently on the Best of the Batch Foundation board.

How did you connect with United Way?

I connected with United Way through my job at the Housing Authority. The first thing I did was volunteer at Bethlehem Haven Women’s Shelter. Then I participated in the Next Generation Character Playbook, a United Way focus group, Build a Bike, and the Strategic Allocation Funding Committee for adults and families who are struggling financially.

Why do you continue to volunteer with United Way?

I believe in what they do. All the programs they’ve brought to my attention have been eye-opening for me, and I know they genuinely want to help every organization they assist. At my job with the Housing Authority, I was always recommending their PA 2-1-1 Southwest line. It’s a great service — they’re really accessible in assisting individuals whatever their needs are, whether it’s housing, mental illness, or rent and utilities assistance. I love that they provide holistic assistance for everyone and anyone, because we all get down and out at times. I’ve been hands-on with them for years, and I really enjoy the organization.

What’s your favorite United Way memory?

Where it all began for me — at the Bethlehem Haven Women’s Shelter. There were about seven of us who came together to serve food at the shelter. We needed to figure out what we were going to make and serve, and we were able to feed the women there. I really enjoyed that moment — and it was my springboard into every other thing I’ve done with United Way. I now have the attitude that whatever I can be used for, I’m in. There are so many great programs, and I want to be of service however I can.