LatinX Council Updates!

NASW Leadership History:

Co-Chair and Founder of the NASW-CA LatinX Council is the first Leadership role at NASW.

Why Social Work?

Growing up as a first-generation Latina in an underserved immigrant community, I witnessed how systemic inequities limited opportunities for people with immense potential. I also noticed a lack of helping professionals who looked like me or shared my lived experiences, which reinforced the importance of representation in effective, culturally responsive care. These experiences fueled my commitment to social justice and led me to social work as a way to challenge inequitable systems, increase representation, and support marginalized communities in reaching their full potential.

Social Work Passion:

I am most passionate about school based and clinical social work with first-generation and immigrant communities, particularly Latinx youth and families. I am especially drawn to work that integrates trauma-informed, culturally responsive care while also addressing the systemic and institutional barriers that impact mental health and educational equity.

NASW Leadership History:

Currently Co-Chair and Founder of the NASW-CA LatinX Council, formerly treasurer.

Why Social Work?

As a first-generation Salvadoran American who grew up in a predominantly low-income neighborhood where resources were often limited, I experienced what it felt like to believe that my voice did not matter. I saw how access to resources, socioeconomic circumstances, culture, and systemic barriers could shape the opportunities available to individuals and families. These experiences shaped my understanding of the importance of social justice, human rights, diversity, and empowerment. The day I chose social work was the day I chose to speak, not only for myself, but for those who may feel unheard, unseen, or without power.

Social Work Passion:

I am most passionate about working with invisible and marginalized populations who experience chronic mental health conditions, particularly individuals whose experiences intersect with crisis, forensic, and systemic issues. My passion has been shaped by my experiences volunteering, working in community mental health, participating in street medicine, providing clinical supervision, and working in the medical field. Across these settings, I have witnessed how mental health, poverty, access to healthcare, trauma, and systemic barriers can profoundly impact an individual’s ability to advocate for themselves and access the support they need.