AFP Member Spotlight: Katya Guillaume

AFP Member Spotlights are a recurring series of interviews with AFP members, highlighting the unique individuals and career paths that exist within the fundraising profession. If you know an inspiring fundraising professional who deserves to be featured, please email [email protected].

In this member spotlight, we interviewed Katya Guillaume, donor engagement & advising lead at Gulfside Healthcare Services. She shared how her background in TV journalism inspired her to bring the power of storytelling into fundraising, using real patient and family stories to deepen donor connections and strengthen campaigns. Guided by her belief in the importance of connection, Katya has built a storytelling-driven donor strategy that boosts retention, inspires giving, and demonstrates the impact of authentic engagement.

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession and what led you there? 
A: I actually started my career in TV journalism. I loved telling stories that connected people to something bigger and being a voice for others who didn't have the platform or means to share their stories. After almost a decade in news and sports, I realized I wanted to use those storytelling skills to make a direct impact. That’s what led me to philanthropy and fundraising. It’s still about stories, but now they drive compassion, community, and support.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member? 
A: I joined AFP after stepping into my fundraising role because I wanted to learn from others who’ve been doing this longer than me. Fundraising is so much more than just asking for money, it’s about building relationships and strategy and AFP felt like the right community to grow with.

Q: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from?
A: Yes, we’re weaving storytelling into every part of our fundraising strategy. Instead of just sending generic appeals, we’re sharing real patient and family stories across mail, email, video, and social media. It’s made our campaigns more meaningful, and it’s also helping with donor retention because people feel connected to the impact their gifts are making.

Q: What is your favorite word? (only one word) How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: “Connection.” For me, it’s the heart of fundraising. Whether it’s connecting a donor to a cause, a family to care, or a story to someone’s heart, it’s what makes this work matter.

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 
A: I’m proud of building a storytelling-driven donor strategy almost from scratch at my organization. In just a year and a half, I’ve been able to show how personal stories can strengthen campaigns, re-engage donors, and inspire new giving. Seeing that approach get buy-in has been huge for me.

Q: How has being an AFP member benefited you in your career? 
A: AFP has given me a sense of belonging in a profession I was, and still am, brand new to. The conferences, webinars, and networking have given me both the tools and the confidence to step into my role and think bigger about what’s possible.

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?
A: Donor fatigue. People are constantly being asked to give, and it’s easy for messages to get lost. The challenge is finding authentic ways to connect, not just asking, but showing why their support truly matters.

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals? 
A: Don’t underestimate the power of storytelling and gratitude. Every donor wants to feel seen and valued. Whether it’s a quick thank-you call, a personal story in an appeal, or a simple update, those touches make all the difference.