Ground Worker of the Year Award- 2025-26

Honoring Mya Gray

Mya Gray represents the kind of community leadership that happens every day behind the scenes — the work of connecting people, creating opportunities, and telling the stories that shape a community.

A filmmaker, educator, community engagement professional, and creative strategist, Mya has dedicated her career to using communication and storytelling as tools for public impact.

As the founder of ViewfindHer Films LLC, Mya has focused on documenting history and uplifting community voices through visual storytelling. Her work has helped nonprofit organizations and community partners share stories of resilience, empowerment, and change.

Her commitment to service extends beyond filmmaking. Through her work in community engagement, Mya has developed partnerships connecting residents with resources in housing, education, employment, health, and financial empowerment.

She has served as a Community Building & Engagement Manager, working directly with residents and organizations to strengthen relationships and create pathways for opportunity.

“What stands out to me is that she fits the Parker Jane philosophy: not a traditional “award winner” because of a title, but because she has spent years doing the connective tissue work — the person who organizes, documents, teaches, and amplifies.

She is exactly the type of person a public benefit corporation should spotlight.” – R. Newman Board President

Mya has also shared her knowledge as an Adjunct Professor of Communication at Central Connecticut State University, teaching public speaking and helping prepare the next generation of communicators.

Her experience includes:

• Documentary filmmaking
• Community development
• Public speaking education
• Event production
• Digital storytelling
• Arts and cultural programming
• Nonprofit engagement

From her work with organizations like the Mattatuck Museum, Neighborhood Housing Services of Waterbury, the New Britain Youth Museum & Hungerford Nature Center, and other community-focused initiatives, Mya has consistently demonstrated that meaningful change begins with showing up.

The Parker Jane PBC Ground Worker of the Year Award recognizes Mya Gray for her dedication to community, creativity, and the belief that every person and every neighborhood has a story worth telling.