I was born and raised in San Diego, California, next to the US-Mexican border by two hard-working, immigrant parents. After struggling to get through middle and high school, my mother motivated me to spend a few years attending Southwestern Community College and volunteering at local non-profits. I then discovered my passion for human and community development and chose to attend the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, where I earned my bachelor’s in Child Psychology with a focus in education and a minor in TESOL. Since then my career has been focused in the non-profit sector working to strengthen and empower diverse communities.

When I am not working, I enjoy gardening, spending time with my family, eating/cooking, and exploring new environments.