Mya Gray
Community Building & Empowerment Manager
She/Her
Mya is a Waterbury native and resident. She holds a Bachelors of Arts in Media Studies with a concentration in Digital Filmmaking and Television Production and a minor in Anthropology. She also holds a Masters of Science degree in Strategic Communication from Central Connecticut State University.
She is passionate about digital media as well as traditional forms of communication and the power of both forms to connect people to and amplify the voices of those who are often overlooked. Her dedication to the field of communication also led her to serve as an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University, where she teaches public speaking and inspires the next generation of communicators.
Mya is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, enthusiastic event planner, advocate for social justice issues, public speaker, and coffee expert.
My Story
When did you join NEST?
I first joined NEST briefly in 2021 before heading to graduate school. In 2025, I was thrilled to return in a new role and continue contributing to the mission.
Why did you decide to join NEST?
As a proud Waterbury native and resident, NEST feels like the perfect place to be. It’s inspiring to work for an organization that is creating lasting, positive change in the very community I call home.
What is it about NEST that has kept you engaged with our work/mission?
The impact is real. I’ve seen how lives are transformed when families gain access to homeownership and the chance to build generational wealth. As someone who has both rented and owned in Waterbury, I know firsthand the difference property ownership can make—not only for individual families, but for the health and strength of entire communities.
Please share a memory or story from your time at NEST.
During graduate school, I chose NEST as the subject of a case study on organizational dynamics. That project gave me a deeper look into NEST’s history, culture, and evolution—and what I discovered confirmed what I already felt: NEST is a powerhouse for positive change. The staff genuinely care about the residents they serve, and the workplace culture reflects the same values of diversity, respect, and mission-driven purpose that guide the organization in the community.
Looking forward, what are your greatest hopes for the future of NEST?
I hope to see NEST continue to grow and expand—reaching more families in Waterbury and throughout Connecticut. My vision is for more people to discover the power of homeownership, gain the knowledge and resources to achieve it, and build stronger communities rooted in unity, equity, and healthier lifestyles.
What are 3+ things you like to do in your spare time?
In my free time, I enjoy making documentary films, traveling, and spending time outdoors—whether hiking, fishing, walking nature trails, or relaxing at the beach.
Let's Connect
203-753-1896 Ext. 220