NLLI Spotlight: Nia Winston

Nia Winston radiates when she speaks about the members she represents at UNITE HERE! Recently elected Secretary-Treasurer, she has made history as the first Black person to hold this leadership role in her union. She is a trailblazer as the first woman to rise through the ranks to become a worker leader in this position.

In 1999, she began her career as a food cashier at Motor City Casino in Detroit. At that time, her workplace was not unionized; however, this changed in 2000 thanks to the collective efforts of the city and various labor organizations, including UNITE HERE, the UAW, Teamsters, and Operating Engineers. A collective bargaining agreement was secured for the entire building, marking the start of her lifelong commitment to the labor movement.

Nia fell in love with her union work shortly after starting to volunteer and participate in union events following the unionization of her workplace. By 2004, she had resigned from her position at the casino and became an organizer for HERE Local 24. That same year, HERE merged, and she had the honor of attending the founding convention in Chicago. Witnessing the energy and power of workers from across the U.S. and Canada deepened her passion for the labor movement.

Her journey within the union began as an organizer and progressed through various roles at her local union, including Gaming Director, Executive Director, Recording Secretary, and Local President representing workers across Michigan and Ohio. In 2019, she was elected to serve as a general vice president of the International Union while continuing her local leadership. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when 98% of members were laid off, she focused on relief efforts and workers' rights. She made history as the first Black general vice president of UNITE HERE, dedicating herself to nurturing future leaders who reflect the union's diverse membership.

Learning and Growing with the NLLI Program

Education is crucial for leadership, and she became the first person to complete the National Labor Leadership Initiative (NLLI) twice—initially during the pandemic and again in 2024-2025. Though her first experience was cut short, it equipped her with vital tools to handle pandemic challenges. Returning to NLLI has deepened her understanding and provided additional support in her leadership role.

Through the program, she is gaining confidence and realizing that effective leadership involves building a strong support system and embracing growth. She also observes a rise in women and people of color in leadership roles at UNITE HERE and across the labor movement in unions like SEIU, NEA, AFT, and the AFL-CIO, highlighting the importance of collaboration within labor organizations to better advocate for workers.

The Role of Women in Leadership and a Call to Action

Serving along side UNITE HERE’s first woman General President, Gwen Mills,Nia believes women lead with a unique blend of compassion, strength, and empathy, balancing the demands of managing households and supporting families while confronting challenges head-on. In an era of increasing hostility toward workers, she urges them to channel this resilience into action—taking to the streets, standing in solidarity, and advocating fiercely for union members.

Women are not only capable of leadership but are uniquely positioned to face obstacles with determination and grace. That’s why Nia encourages them to step forward, embrace their confidence, and make their voices heard. Now is the moment to drive the labor movement into a bold and dynamic future.

For that future to take shape, organizations must foster environments where authenticity thrives, risk-taking is embraced, and new ideas are met with open minds. The movement cannot rely on outdated methods; real change requires adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to empowering members to lead.

Above all, Nia calls on young women workers to raise their voices, stand boldly, and never apologize for fighting for justice. The labor movement needs fearless, unapologetic leaders—leaders who will stand up for all workers and push for a future that is fairer, stronger, and more just for everyone.