Every person who joins Play Like a Girl has a story, and we think those stories are worth sharing.
Our new In the Spotlight series is a chance to introduce you to the people behind our mission—the mentors, volunteers, partners, interns, supporters, and team members who help make this work possible.
First up is Sofia Hess! What started as an internship quickly turned into a passion for the mission, and in just a short time, she’s already made a meaningful impact on our team. We’re excited for you to meet her.
How did you become part of Play Like a Girl?
My boss had a connection to someone on Play Like a Girl’s board of directors and sent me the job posting on LinkedIn. At first it was just an opportunity, but once I started learning more about the mission and collaborating with the team, something clicked. The combination of addressing real gaps in girls’ access to sports and confidence-building, plus the strategic thinking that partnership work requires, felt like the perfect fit for how I work best. What started as a professional introduction has become something I’m genuinely passionate about.
Who are you beyond your role here?
I’m someone who cares deeply about doing things with kindness. That shows up in how I treat people, how I listen, and how I try to show up for the people I care about. I’m motivated when something feels meaningful to me, and if I believe in something, I’m all in. I have a deep investment in my community here in Nashville and in the organizations working to make a real difference in it. Lifting others up is something I genuinely believe in, and it turns out that instinct is most of the job.
What has stayed with you most during your time here?
Watching how Dr. Kim leads the team. She genuinely wants to see us grow and succeed, not just professionally but personally, and that kind of leadership is rare. It showed me the impact of having a leader who truly cares about the people behind the work. She creates a space where it’s okay to ask questions, learn, grow, and celebrate wins together. I’ve learned that I thrive when I’m surrounded by people who genuinely care, not only about the mission, but about each other’s growth and wellbeing, and that kindness and doing excellent work have never been separate things. Play Like a Girl has given me permission to bring my whole self to work, and that has made me a better version of myself.
What would you say to someone who hasn’t gotten involved yet?
Do it. There’s truly a role for everyone here, and you don’t need a specific skill set or background to contribute something meaningful. You’ll be joining a team that genuinely cares about people and their growth, which is rare, and the culture here is different because the leadership is different. You’ll be part of real impact and real connection, with partners who believe in the mission and teammates who celebrate your wins and support you through the hard days. I am endlessly thankful for the opportunity I’ve had to be touched by this organization.
What Her Supervisor Sees
Jennifer Skinner, Sofia’s supervisor at Play Like a Girl, says:
“Sofia has brought incredible energy, enthusiasm, and work ethic to her role from day one. In just a short time, she has made meaningful contributions to Play Like a Girl, from securing partnerships and in-kind donations and building AI tools that make us more efficient to developing a full university partnership deck entirely on her own. Having an intern has pushed me to grow as a leader in ways I didn’t expect. There is something deeply rewarding about watching someone step into a role, develop real skills, get tangible results, and discover what they are truly passionate about. Sofia has done all of that and more. We are so proud of everything she has accomplished and excited to see where she goes next.”
Get Involved
And here’s the best part: Sofia isn’t going anywhere! She is moving from intern to on staff as Play Like a Girl’s Partnerships and Development Coordinator, continuing the work she has already poured so much into. Congratulations, Sofia! We can’t wait to see what you build in this next chapter.
Know someone who cares about opening doors for girls in sports and STEM? Explore the ways to get involved and help her find her place at Play Like a Girl. You can also read more stories from our community.
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