Ella Williams’ Journey of Empathy and Empowerment

February 14, 2025

At just 24 years old, Ella Williams is already leaving her mark in the world of Human Services. A Wilmington native and second-year student in Delaware Technical Community College’s Human Services associate degree program, Ella recently completed an 18-week internship at YWCA Delaware’s Home-Life Management Center (HLMC). Her experience has helped shape her career aspirations and deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

“When I was younger, I always wanted to help people and make them smile,” Ella recalls. “As I got older, I saw how many people struggled with different things, and I thought, there’s got to be a way I can help.” Inspired by her upbringing, she found her calling in Human Services to provide resources and a support system for those in need.

Ella’s parents, especially her mother—a pastor with a ministry aiding people in Liberia and Haiti—instilled a deep sense of community service in her. From participating in clothing drives to joining her father in volunteer activities like Comcast Cares Day, Ella’s early exposure to giving back laid the foundation for her passion. “I used to think it was so cool. One time, we helped build a garden, and it was so fun,” she said with a smile.

Her internship at HLMC offered Ella the opportunity to dive into meaningful work supporting women and families. She was particularly drawn to YWCA Delaware’s financial literacy and enrichment programs. “I learned about resources that help people afford rent and how to ask the right questions to uncover the individual root causes of housing instability,” she explained.

Working with clients, Ella quickly developed skills in asking empathetic yet practical questions like, “Do you have any goals right now?” or “Are you looking to fix your credit?” Her biggest takeaway? “Homelessness can happen to anyone. Sometimes, it’s just one bad paycheck or a health issue that turns someone’s world upside down.”

Ella’s time at HLMC also brought her face-to-face with survivors of domestic abuse, whose resilience she found deeply inspiring. “Hearing their stories about overcoming challenges and feeling safe enough to move forward is incredible,” she shared. “I can’t imagine enduring verbal and physical abuse, but knowing they’ve gained the courage and strength to keep going is awesome.”

Now with her eyes set on the future, Ella has applied to Delaware State University to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. She envisions herself as a licensed clinical social worker, helping survivors of domestic abuse and veterans, inspired by her brother’s military service.

Reflecting on her internship, Ella has even opened her mind to areas she once hesitated to explore, such as addiction recovery. “I originally told myself I wouldn’t work with drug and alcohol issues, but now I see it’s a real struggle. I’m more willing to dive into it and help where I can.”

Ella Williams represents the next generation of empathetic leaders, ready to uplift and empower. Through her experience at YWCA Delaware, she has refined her career goals and reaffirmed her belief in the strength of the human spirit.