Ami Patel
ROOTS OF RESILIENCE
Ami Patel epitomizes the hard work, sacrifice and resilience of her father, Satish. Driven by an unwavering commitment, Satish’s goal was to create a pathway of opportunity for his future children. After Satish married, he immigrated to the United States from India by himself to make this a reality.
When Ami was born, her father was juggling three jobs in the U.S. in his relentless pursuit of homeownership, which eventually paid off after years of hard work. Upon achieving his goal of homeownership Ami’s mother immigrated to the U.S. to join Satish. Growing up, Ami’s parents seamlessly assimilated into American culture while preserving their Indian heritage, a balance Ami also navigated. Ami’s parents encouraged her to embrace both cultures, leading her to join an Indian cultural dance troupe and later become a choreographer. Because of this, Ami is closely connected to her Indian roots, a sentiment shared by her younger siblings, nieces and nephews who also celebrate their heritage through dance.
Ami received her bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in communications from Rutgers University before starting her career in the financial services industry in New York. Her talents were quickly recognized by her managers who helped to elevate her confidence and encouraged her to use her voice.
After working over two decades in the broker-dealer industry, Ami seized the opportunity to join Freddie Mac’s Multifamily division. She was drawn to our mission to Make Home Possible for families across the nation and was inspired by her own father’s struggles and determination.
In her current role, Ami oversees the Portfolio and Business Management teams within the Operations and Service Delivery function in the Multifamily Business Technology Office, with a key focus on enterprise initiatives. The Portfolio and Business Management teams are responsible for critical Enterprise Operations & Technology initiatives that prevent impacts to the tools necessary for Multifamily staff to get their work done, ultimately helping us fulfill our mission.
Ami and her father Satish.
Two years ago, Satish passed away shortly after Ami purchased her second home. Before his death, he expressed gratitude that through his struggles, he was able to accomplish his dream to build the foundation for his children’s future. Today, all three of his children are homeowners.
Ami remains committed to preserving her Indian heritage, something her father was very proud of. She’s part of an Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) suburban chapter. Earlier this month she participated in sharing her voice with women in the AAPI community and discussed challenges and her experience as an Asian American.
May is AAPI Month. Is there an Asian American figure, historical or personal, whom you admire?
A: It’s most definitely my dad. He was just a force to be reckoned with, with his quiet strength and ability to make others feel supported. My dad was a quiet soul who did his good deeds without the fanfare. Since his death I learned that he touched and helped so many people without having any expectations for credit or recognition. He taught me that giving someone an ear to listen to, a hand to help, a smile to brighten their day, or a hug to make them feel comforted should be how you lead your life. I want to be him when I grow up — an ally, support system or just an ear to anyone in need.
What trait makes a great teammate or ally?
A: As a teammate, it is important to understand that everyone brings their own strengths and weaknesses to the table, and that there should be respect for each individual. Respect allows a team to grow and develop together. Respect fosters camaraderie that allows everyone to be successful.
How do you see your job impacting the bigger mission?
A: My job is behind the scenes in ensuring that the firm’s objectives in making home possible are met. I can attest that having immigrant parents who rented a one-bedroom apartment in a multifamily building with low rent was a game changer for my dad to save up money to buy a single-family home. Everything we do behind the scenes to ensure the tools are available for our customers helps others who are in the same boat as my family was.
What is one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
A: Due to the environment I grew up in, I had imposter syndrome; I had a voice, but I didn’t use it. I felt that because I am an Indian woman in tech my voice would go unheard. Thankfully I had allies and mentors to uplift me, and I began to use my voice more and my confidence grew. Trust your gut; people who support you will continue to support you. If you know what you’re talking about, don’t be afraid to speak your mind.
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