✨ Meet our Newest Team Member: Dana Silva!

We’re thrilled to introduce you to our newest team member here at The Pearl Works, Dana! Stepping into the role of Operations and Member Success Manager in Kay’s absence, Dana brings with her a rich background in education, community-building, and creating spaces of belonging. 

From leading wilderness adventures to designing transformative programs, Dana’s work has always centered around people, place, and connection. We sat down with her to learn more about her journey, passions, and what excites her most about joining The Pearl Works.

Kay: What is your background? What kind of work have you done in the past?

Dana: I grew up in the wild landscapes of Truckee and Yosemite, where a connection to the natural world was rooted in me from an early age. My professional journey began by leading hikes, backpacking trips, and climbing adventures—experiences that helped people of all ages build confidence and foster meaningful relationships with nature. That work sparked a lifelong passion for designing and facilitating transformative programs that cultivate growth, resilience, and connection.

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: Waldorf kindergarten teacher, tribal program employee, coordinator on an educational farm, founder and instructor of a permaculture program for children, advocate for senior resources, and designer of sustainable gardens. While the settings and roles have varied, the common thread has always been care—for people, for place, and for community.
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Kay: What brought you to Monterey?

Dana: My husband was offered his dream job in the area. After taking a weekend trip, I really loved the feel of this coastal environment and was grateful for the opportunity to live in such a uniquely beautiful place. 
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Kay: Tell us a bit about your family! (Optional - totally fine if you’d prefer for this to stay private)

Dana: I have two brilliant and strong willed kiddos (2.5 and 4) and a wonderful husband. We also have two cuddly pet cats.
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Kay: What are you passionate about in your professional life?

Dana: I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel a deep sense of belonging, connection, and possibility. (Bonus: my favorite book is “Belonging: Remembering Ourselves Home” by Toko-Pa Turner and I love to talk about it. Most days I carry it in my purse). Whether it’s through outdoor education, community facilitation, or healing-centered work, I care deeply about how individuals and groups grow, transform, and support each other. Professionally, I’m most energized when I am creating processes, structures or curriculum that can support people feeling cared for. I believe that meaningful change—whether personal or systemic—starts with relationships, and I try to bring that value into every project I’m part of.

Kay: What are your hobbies or passions outside of the group?

Dana: Having two toddlers means that the answer to this question includes: finger painting, Bluey, hanging at a park with some snacks. Outside of that, I play the guitar, sing, write, take photos with old cameras, and make mixed media art. 

Kay: What’s one daily practice you can’t do without?

Dana: The practice of gratitude and setting daily intentions.

Kay: Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
Dana: I love to write improvised songs on the spot, specialize in cloud appreciation, and I can pack a car for a camping trip with Tetris type precision.

Kay: What are you most looking forward to about becoming a member of The Pearl Works?

Dana: I’m really looking forward to being part of a community that values connection, creativity, and purpose driven work. The Pearl Works seems like so much more than just a co-working space—it feels like a place where people are encouraged to show up fully, support each other, and be authentic. I’m excited about the chance to contribute, whether it’s through conversations, spontaneous collaborations, or just being part of a space where people feel seen and supported. Also, let’s be honest— I’m a sucker for good natural light, plants, and a well stocked tea station.

Dana’s warmth, creativity, and passion for building authentic connections are exactly what make The Pearl Works such a special place to be. We’re so lucky to have her on our team, and we’d love for you to meet her in person! 

👉 Book a day pass and come experience The Pearl Works community for yourself. Who knows, you might find yourself sharing a cup of tea, swapping stories, or collaborating on something meaningful with Dana.

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