Niurka Castaneda

Born in Cuba and inspired by her grandfather’s poetry and parents' entrepreneurial spirit, Niurka grew up with an artistic and enterprising mindset. Immigrating to the United States as a teenager, she answered the call to serve her new home, joining the Army a year later. Her 13+ years of military service and as a logistician, instilled resilience, determination, and flexibility, skills she carried into her post-military life

After transitioning out of the military Niurka pursued higher education, earning a master’s degree in Supply Chain and Logistics and continuing with a bachelor's in Film, TV, and Media. Her journey led her to transform a class project into founding AMOR Umbrella, a creative media and film enterprise dedicated to creating impactful stories that bring hope and awareness to underserved communities, particularly veterans.

Niurka joined the Dog Tag Entrepreneurship Veteran Program to enhance her business acumen and expand her network while continuing to advocate for veterans. She hopes to gain valuable tools and insights to further her mission of storytelling that inspires change.

A filmmaker, author, and advocate, Niurka’s favorite baked good is the classic Cuban pastelito de guayana (guava pastry) with cream cheese, a nod to her Cuban heritage and the and the sweetness of new opportunities.