Yvonne Sydnor truly lights up a room with her warmth, smile and magnetic personality. Somehow you know immediately that she has an open heart…a willingness to embrace people. Not only has she been the Manager of Conference Services for Citigroup for more than ten years, but she is also a devoted pastor at the Apostolic Holiness Church in Wyandanch. Concurrently, Yvonne operates her own website design and development business, YS Productions, Inc. where she specializes in software training, and data creation.

Do you live by a basic philosophy?

I put Christ first and foremost in my life, and then everything else falls into place. I believe if everyone treated others the way they would like to be treated, there would not be any discontent in the world.

Are there people that were catalysts in your life?

My mother first and foremost! She raised five children by herself. My mother taught us to respect others and to work hard for the things that we want. She instilled in us that anything is possible because God is in control. My mother is a true role model. She had a family before she finished high school. My father left my four brothers and me when we were all very young. My mom went back to high school to graduate, and then continued on to obtain her nursing degree.

As a child I never knew we were “poor.” I played softball and basketball, and took music lessons. I was never lacking. My mom brought my four brothers and me to church every Sunday.

Do you volunteer your time to worthy causes?

Yes, I try. I have been involved with the LI Center for Business and Professional Women since 1994. I am currently Executive Vice President and am targeted to be the next President in 2006. For many years I have maintained the LI Center’s computer system and developed the website which is currently being used. Additionally, I give to the American Heart Association.

Do you have advice for women readers?

Believe in yourself. Don’t compromise. Believe in your dreams.
Do the right thing. Work hard in whatever you decide to do to get where you want do go. Develop a two or three year roadmap. Build a strong foundation. Know your market. If you work hard you will be rewarded!

What have you found rewarding in your career?

I continue to find developing talent most rewarding. Taking the people who report to me and making sure they are getting the training and knowledge that they need to fill my shoes gives me tremendous pleasure. If my team needs me to do something, then I have not done my job. I enjoy teaching people to learn how to delegate, how to become leaders.

What do you do for fun?

I play the piano and I enjoy creating original programming and databases. Also, I like cooking out on the grill and spending time with family.

Editors Note: Lhea Scotto is President of Quantum Career Services in Jericho, NY. Her new website is http://www.822jobs.com

www.liwomen.com
July 2005