PALO: Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community.
PM: My name is Paola Mateo, born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania. I’m passionate about expanding access to the arts, creating opportunities for young people and families, and strengthening our community through education, creativity, and collaboration. I serve as the Youth Programs Manager at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. I’m also a proud Board Member of the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce, Chair of its Events Committee, a member of its Marketing Committee, and part of the Development Committee for Safe Berks.
PALO: How did your journey in the arts begin?
PM: Art has always been a major part of my life. For the past seven years, I’ve taught children and adults in disciplines including woodworking, ceramics, textiles, and lapidary arts. I also spent two years in marketing, gaining valuable experience in communication and community engagement. Program management was always my dream, and for the past three years, I’ve been fortunate to create programs that positively impact our community.
PALO: Tell us about your educational background.
PM: As a proud Dominican American woman of mixed ethnic heritage, education has been one of the greatest gifts in my life. Scholarships allowed me to study abroad in the Dominican Republic at Altos de Chavón, where I earned my Associate of Applied Science degree. I later earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Parsons School of Design in New York City. Those experiences broadened my perspective and strengthened my belief that education can transform lives.
PALO: You speak several languages. Why has that been important to you?
PM: I grew up speaking both English and Spanish in a bilingual household and quickly learned how powerful communication can be in building relationships and serving others. That inspired me to learn French, Portuguese, and American Sign Language. For me, languages are more than a personal achievement. They help me connect with people, remove barriers, and make others feel seen and included.
PALO: What motivates you in your work at GoogleWorks?
PM: Accessibility is at the heart of everything we do. I believe financial circumstances should never prevent someone from experiencing the arts or discovering their creativity. I oversee several free and low-cost programs, including After School Arts, Vibe Lounge, Create With Me, Summer Camps, and the Summer Fellowship Program. The fellowship is especially meaningful because it connects young artists with professional mentors for one-on-one guidance and real-world experience. Watching young people gain confidence through creativity is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
PALO: You wear many hats outside of GoggleWorks. Why is community involvement so important to you?
PM: I believe real change happens when organizations work together. Through my leadership with various organizations, I’ve contributed to initiatives that support local businesses, promote education, create networking opportunities, and connect families with essential resources. Whether in the arts, business, or nonprofit sectors, my goal is the same: to help people grow, succeed, and feel empowered.
PALO: What message would you like to leave with the Reading and Berks County community?
PM: I hope to see more people take advantage of spaces created for learning, creativity, and opportunity. I encourage families throughout Reading and Berks County to explore what’s available—from free finance, business, and AI workshops through the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce, to volunteering with Safe Berks and participating in GoggleWorks programs. Do your research, ask questions, reach out, and take advantage of the resources around you. Every opportunity can open a new door, and our community is stronger when we continue learning, supporting one another, and investing in ourselves.
Rosa Julia Parra
Founder & Editor
Palomagazine.com
elpalomagazine@gmail.com
