As Black History Month concludes, we’re proud to spotlight Joachim Romero Bohra—Director of Business Engagement and Strategy at National Able Network.
1. What parts of your background or experiences have most influenced the direction of your career goals?
I began my professional journey as a middle school teacher, a role I held for six years. During that time, I developed a deep passion for identifying students’ unique gifts and helping them cultivate those strengths early. Supporting their growth in identity, confidence, and academic success shaped my commitment to helping others realize their potential; something that continues to guide my career today.
2. Before joining National Able Network, how would you describe where you were in your professional or life journey?
Before joining National Able Network, I served as the Director of Grant Administration at Olive‑Harvey College. My workforce development journey began at the YWCA, where I managed the TDL Sector Center. That experience eventually led to overseeing the Good Jobs Chicagoland grant, a $2.4 million initiative focused on training and job placement throughout Cook County. Each step strengthened my dedication to expanding career opportunities for underserved communities.
3. What helped you recognize that pursuing something different was possible?
I recognized that my passion for leveraging people’s gifts to advance their dreams could be expressed through many career paths, including workforce development. This field allowed me to expand my impact across Cook County and to better understand the daily realities faced by those who keep our communities thriving: construction workers, teachers, healthcare professionals, public sector staff, nonprofit leaders, etc. That awareness affirmed my desire to support individuals in shaping their futures.
4. What stood out to you about Able that made it feel like the right next step?
What stood out most about National Able Network was the people. The organization’s diversity, dedication, and deep commitment to generational impact immediately resonated with me. It felt like a place where meaningful work happens every day and where I could contribute to that mission.
5. Which challenges required the most perseverance, and what helped you continue moving forward?
Workforce development presents daily challenges from funding and compliance to client engagement, employer collaboration, and evolving expectations from multiple stakeholders. Rather than focusing on the obstacles, I center myself on the wins. Each day I am motivated by the opportunity to provide quality coaching, advocate for businesses, and help individuals build the foundation for their dreams.
6. How has your work or leadership helped create opportunities or make an impact for job seekers or the communities we serve?
My work has been deeply rooted in cultivating employer relationships. I believe that truly serving our job seekers requires partnering with employers who are background‑friendly, supportive of individuals with disabilities, inclusive of mature workers, and committed to fostering lifelong learning. Strengthening these partnerships helps open doors to equitable opportunities for the communities we serve.
7. What does leadership mean to you, especially in helping others grow and succeed in their careers?
To me, leadership means being an advocate, a resource, an example, a guide, a listener, and an influencer. It also means having the courage to stand up when needed and the humility to take responsibility when necessary. As a leader, I aim to bring the vision of business services at National Able to life through consistent actions, intentional habits, and meaningful outcomes.
8. What does being in your current role represent for you personally at this point in your career?
My current role represents both how far I have come and how much more there is to accomplish. It reflects the duality of growth celebrating progress while remaining committed to continued development and impact.
9. As we reflect on Black History Month, what does it mean to have your journey and achievements recognized?
I am grateful to National Able Network for acknowledging my work, but I hope this recognition shines a light on the collective efforts of my colleagues of every background. The impact created each day across the organization is powerful and meaningful, and every team member deserves to be recognized for their dedication, talent, and commitment to expanding opportunities for others.
