Jana Pasquel de Shapiro: A Life of Commitment and Volunteering

Published on December 4, 2024 by Glasswing

Jana Pasquel de Shapiro is one-of-a-kind. She serves as a Glasswing board member, ambassador, and volunteer. She dedicates herself to her family and community while making meaningful societal change through her volunteerism. 

We admire her so much that we wanted to share her story with you. As you’ll see, it’s a source of inspiration—and a reminder that there is no limit to true compassion and care.

Family: The Center of Her Life

Growing up in Mexico, Jana experienced the importance of strong family and community traditions. This foundation has shaped her commitment to giving back. 

She and her family now live in New York, where she works to instill in her children the values and traditions she grew up with. 

“New York is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, dreams, and stories, and this rich tapestry inspires me to give back through volunteering,” she told us. Jana has always felt that New York’s diversity makes it both a welcoming and meaningful place to build a life.

In addition to her career in jewelry—she is the president of Munnu The Gem Palace North America—Jana is a mother to three children: Maximiliano, Jana, and Antonia. She prioritizes family above all, not just as part of her responsibilities but as a way to pass down the value of togetherness that she learned during her childhood in Mexico.

Jana and Glasswing

Jana’s connection to Glasswing began at a dinner. There, she met Celina de Sola, co-founder and president of Glasswing, who shared the organization’s mission to address the root causes and impacts of poverty and violence through education, mental health support, and youth empowerment.

“She [Celina] explained what they were doing, and I was moved,” Jana said. “Many people want to help, but they don’t know where to start. Celina makes it easy, showing that no matter the size of your contribution, you can make a difference.”

Now, as a member of Glasswing’s Board of Directors, Jana plays a crucial role in fundraising, supporting events such as clothing drives and the Glasswing New York Salon and championing educational programs in New York. These experiences remind her of the importance of supporting newly arrived immigrant youth as they adapt and work toward their goals.

She also participates in volunteer events in Central America, most recently at the Centro Escolar Lic. Walter Beneke in El Palmarcito, El Zonte, La Libertad, El Salvador. Alongside family, friends, and local volunteers, Jana led a revitalization project at the school, where they painted murals, installed furniture, created play areas and reading corners, landscaped, and refreshed the facilities. The revitalization positively impacted over 180 students.

She emphasizes that every action—from sharing ideas to volunteering time to donating resources—adds up to something larger. 

Education for Change

One of the most compelling aspects of Jana’s work is her vision of education, particularly for girls and young women. She believes that all young people hold immense potential, yet many lack the opportunities and exposure necessary to realize it. 

Through her work with Glasswing, she has seen firsthand how experiences like mentorship can transform lives by helping young people envision new possibilities.

“Young people can reach their potential, regardless of nationality or background,” she said. “The question is, what do they see ahead of them? If they see that studying opens doors, they’ll be motivated. If not, they may choose a different path.”

For Jana, volunteering is vital to offering young people a vision of what’s possible.

Transforming Community: Achieving Dreams

Jana’s story is a powerful blend of family commitment, a love for heritage, and a passion for change.

“This journey has been filled with challenges and rewards, but I know I’m where I need to be: working toward a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” she said. 

Jana’s life and work embody the transformative power of community and the impact one person can have on the lives of others. We are so grateful to her for her dedication to lifting up young people and inspiring them to imagine a brighter future!