Landing the right job often requires patience and perseverance. For Lani—an operational supervisor at Deseret Industries—the journey was no different. 

“It took a lot of patience to find the right career,” Lani says. “I see all the different ways I can help associates, and I’m just really grateful for the timing, just knowing that God had His plan for me to come here.” 

After starting the job, Lani quickly discovered that her personal experiences had prepared her for the role and allowed her to capitalize on her deep desire to help others. 

“I can relate a lot to these associates,” Lani says. “I’ve been through a lot of personal struggles. I’ve been homeless, but I finished my MBA and was able to turn my life around. I feel like I can help associates and show them that anything is possible.”

Lani has also seen how her education was an important step in her journey, enabling her to acquire and strengthen several skills that she uses daily as she coaches associates in the DI job training program. 

“My schooling gave me leadership skills and the confidence to lead,” Lani says. “I learned how to lead a team and run my department.” 

When asked to describe her role, Lani explains that the work of an operational supervisor is first and foremost about those enrolled in the job training program. 

“Our job is to make sure that we help associates better themselves, reach their goals, and find something better outside of DI,” Lani says. “It’s not just about retail or hitting sales. It’s amazing to know what we really do and know that we’re really just here to focus on people.” 

Lani oversees the women’s clothing section of the store and makes an impact by empowering associates on her team to succeed. She places an emphasis on reaching team goals, including processing donated clothing, putting clothes on the retail floor, and ensuring the floor is free of loose clothing.

“I inspire my team members by just talking to them,” Lani says. “I make sure they know I’m their biggest cheerleader—that anything is possible and that they are able to reach the best of their potential.” 

Throughout the time she has been at Deseret Industries, Lani has seen just how much good is being accomplished by DI employees. 

“Working here has opened my eyes to how much we do to help others,” Lani says. “There are so many people here who aren’t members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I think it is pretty cool that we open our doors and extend help to others from different faiths as well.” 

You can support supervisors like Lani by shopping at or donating to Deseret Industries. Every purchase and every donation directly supports the DI job training program and provides associates with opportunities to build skills and prepare for better employment. Visit Deseret Industries today to support our unique mission.