Meet Yvette Murray | CEO & Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yvette Murray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yvette, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Purpose Nomad came to be from a trip I took years ago that changed my life forever. I participated in a community volunteer project with my colleagues in a small, rural town just outside of Berlin, Germany. We built a playground for a kindergarten class that had no outdoor play equipment to play in during recess . The look on their faces and show of appreciation moved me to tears. I vowed I would one day start a company or nonprofit dedicated to avid travelers who want to explore the world with a purpose and give back to causes that mean something to them during their travels. While this concept of this part of my company is still coming to fruition, I currently consult with organizations that are making a difference in their communities and throughout the world. I also continue doing my part through my own travels by exploring the globe with a purpose and showing my deepest appreciation for the places I visit by giving back through volunteer work, donations, and public awareness.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a grant writing and fundraising professional with over 16 years of experience in both higher education and the private, non-profit sectors. My major responsibilities have been to secure federal, state, local, and private funding for various programs and initiatives in education, healthcare, social services, capital campaigns, renewable energy, mental health, disadvantaged populations, and endowments. My major role was to research and identify funding opportunities through federal agencies, private, family, and corporate foundations, as well as local initiatives through various community-based partnerships.

In late 2018/early 2019 , while at work, I came up with a name for my future dream business Purpose Nomad. It was the perfect name that combined my love of traveling and helping others. When the pandemic hit in 2020, the organization I was working for downsized their staff considerably leaving me with half my income vanishing practically overnight. As a single mom, I quickly began to look for ways to make up for the financial loss I was facing. So after years of working in the fundraising industry, I decided now more than ever was the best time to establish Purpose Nomad. I faced the challenge of balancing a steady part-time job while building a business and worked day and night writing business proposals, searching online for potential new clients, and marketing my new venture through social media outlets and other outreach avenues.

I was both excited and worried at the same time since I was on my own and sought out guidance from those I looked up to in the industry, professional networks, and friends and family. Soon after, I began receiving referrals as well as new leads derived from my countless hours of building my online presence on several job boards. I built up a small portfolio that consisted of small and large nonprofits, struggling start ups, and community organizations that were striving to make a difference in our community. Since then I serve clients and organizations from around the country. Once travel restrictions lessened, I also began traveling extensively while doing freelance writing and blogging about my experiences which are my truest passions. It was scary taking the plunge into a world that I often dreamt of having but never imagined it would actually become a reality..

I have taken each challenge along the way as teachable moments in order to gain better knowledge on how to improve my work. I believe what sets me apart from others is my natural ability to connect with others both on an empathetic and authentic level. Building relationships, especially in this industry, is one that takes tenacity and genuine passion. I want everyone to know that despite all the sufferings taking place all around us, I aim to support those that are striving to make the world a better place.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a native Floridian, born and raised in Miami and have lived in several cities throughout the state. The last five years I have made Coral Springs my home. It is a suburb west of Fort Lauderdale and a great place for families. I think one of the first things I would embark on with my best friend is a day at the beach, either Deerfield Beach or Hollywood Beach. Fun in the sun is rule #1. After a long day of catching rays, I would head to Fort Lauderdale to grab some sushi. There are many great restaurants nestled right on the ocean or by various marinas. There are also so many great brunch spots on Las Olas Boulevard such as Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar. My latest obsession are speakeasy bars so this would be an after-dinner must. One of my favorite spots is No Man’s Land which never disappoints..

A shopping excursion would definitely be on the list. Sawgrass Mills Mall is a 15-minute drive away with over 350 stores as well as restaurants to end your day of retail therapy. Approximately 30 minutes away is Delray Beach with a bustling nightlife of live music, bars, and restaurants. It is home to the Silverball Retro Arcade that will bring you back to the 80s with hundreds of classic arcade games, a live DJ, and bar. Finally, a trip would be that more memorable if you can take in a live concert or sporting event. Hard Rock Hotel is 30 minutes away as well as the stadium to catch your favorite band or sports team.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Five years ago, I felt lost, hopeless, and scared to make a change. When I finally decided to embark on a new journey, I was able to do it with the support and encouragement of a small but mighty group of family, friends, colleagues, and most importantly my two children. They are my driving force to keep moving forward, serving as.a model to them and others.

Website: www.purposenomad.com

Instagram: @purposenomad

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvettegmurray

Twitter: @purposenomad

Facebook: @purposenomad

Image Credits
Tammy Alvarez Media