Chicago Latina Magazine

NOTA DEL EDITOR

EDITOR’S NOTE

In 2023, the Chicago Latina organized the first DEI Small Business Procurement Supplier Expo with the aim of supporting minority-owned small businesses in adapting, expanding, and gaining trust in government assistance for sustainability through vendorship and certification This event, made possible with the backing of various entities including the State Comptroller Susana Mendoza, the City of Des Plaines, Rivers Casino, and other sponsors, brought together entrepreneurs and provided avenues of growth for the community. Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), Commissioner Eira L Corral Sepúlveda graced the event, stressing the significance of breaking barriers and championing sustainability through education, partnerships, and actionable steps in Cook County and beyond

Commissioner Sepúlveda, the pioneering Latina MWRD Commissioner, stands as a beacon of inspiration, particularly during Women's History Month, showcasing her accomplishments and unwavering commitment Her decision to enter the commissioner role and foster inclusive environments has empowered Latina women in Chicago, shining a light on their skills and influence Visionaries like Commissioner Sepúlveda motivate Latina women to pursue their aspirations with fervor, resilience, and self-assurance, making substantial contributions to their communities. It's crucial to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of remarkable Latinas, underscoring the profound impact they have statewide.

On a personal note, I express my gratitude to Richard L Martinez, Acting Diversity Administrator for MWRD, for establishing opportunities like becoming a vendor at the inaugural event, leading to numerous new positive endeavors It only takes one individual to effect change I encourage you to consider being that catalyst for positive transformation

CIAO!

N. Linda Del Bosque Editor in Chief

In Photo 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month hosted by Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (L to R) Commissioner Eira L Corral Sepúlveda and Linda Del Bosque

Photo by: MWRD

c o n t e n t s

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Artículo de portada

Commissioner Eira L Corral Sepúlveda from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) attended the event, emphasizing the importance of overcoming obstacles and promoting sustainability through education, collaborations, and practical initiatives in Cook County and surrounding areas

02

Nota del editor

con Linda Del Bosque

Liderazgo 05

Robert Aguilar is the President of Cabrera Capital Markets in Chicago, guiding the firm to excel in financial services through innovation, client satisfaction, professionalism, and integrity. His strategic vision contributes to the company's growth and impact in finance.

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con Vacation with Melissa

Atado a la Universidad 11

Lo que necesitas saber

La latina actual 38

Latinas serve as role models, showcasing that determination leads to success. Their achievements should be honored year-round, encouraging support for resilient Latinas.

Mesa 38

Gaia Italian Restorante in Berwyn, IL is a charming dining establishment known for its delicious Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere

Poder Latina 58

Adela Vargas, Director of External Affairs at ComEd's lHer community's betterment through mentorship and civic engagement

LIDERAZGO

Creating strong diverse relationships is the foundation for growth in business.

Robert Aguilar is an owner and the President of Cabrera Capital Markets (CCM) LLC, a registered FINRA broker dealer with 8 branches across the United States and a trading desk in London, and Cabrera Capital Partners (CCP), LLC, a real estate development and investment firm.

Robert Aguilar, the esteemed President, and an owner of Cabrera Capital Markets (CCM) LLC and Cabrera Capital Partners {CCP), LLC, commands a prominent position within the financial and investment sector With a rich history dating back to 2003, Robert's journey within the Cabrera companies has seen him in pivotal roles such as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Under his adept leadership, the businesses have thrived, experiencing an impressive 25-fold increase in gross receipts over a span of two decades Robert's ethos revolves around the significance of community engagement, believing that fostering opportunities for the youth is crucial in bridging the generational wealth gap

Robert's influence permeates throughout the Cabrera companies, encompassing strategic planning, financial management, and oversight of diverse business lines including Municipal Finance, Global Equity Trading, Corporate Finance, and real estate development through CCP Noteworthy is his involvement in a substantial redevelopment project in Chicago in collaboration with the Chicago Housing Authority and The Habitat Company Furthermore, the Cabrera companies boast certifications as minority-owned enterprises, exemplifying their steadfast commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the corporate landscape

In addition to his illustrious professional accomplishments, Robert's philanthropic endeavors shine brightly He has lent his expertise to esteemed boards and committees such as the U S Securities & Exchange Commission’s Advisory Committee, while also dedicating time to various charitable organizations like La Rabida Children’s Hospital, and currently a board member of he Blackhawks Society and Chicago Public Media Robert's academic background is equally impressive, holding a master’s degree in business administration from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Northern Illinois University His remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed, with accolades such as being named a Chicago United Business Leader of Color in 2011, a testament to his profound impact and exemplary leadership in both the business realm and the wider community

Robert Aguilar, President

Volume 2 Issue 1

EDITOR IN CHEIF

Linda Del Bosque

COVER FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER

Elia Alamillo

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Laura Del Los Santos

Grace Castillo

Rebecca Davila

JoAnna Espinosa

Venessa Ferniza

Isabel Mendez

Patricia Rolon

ADVISORS

Samantha Alvarez

Lizabeth Ramirez

Julisa Sanchez

Jasmin Zamora

SPONSORS

Auxiliary Sponsors

Cabera Capital Market Waterman Bank

Community Navigator Sponsors

Northeastern University Illinois TWG Wealth Management

Partners

American Fmaily Insurance

Specialty Consulting Inc , TWG Wealth Planning

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Group travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a unique and enriching way to explore the world's hottest destinations From exotic adventures to cultural immersions, traveling with a group can enhance the overall experience in numerous ways. One of the main reasons why group traveling is considered the best way to travel is the social aspect it brings Sharing unforgettable moments with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds can create lasting memories and foster new friendships. Whether you are a solo traveler looking to meet new people or a group of friends seeking to strengthen your bond, group travel offers a sense of community and camaraderie that enhances the journey

Another significant advantage of group travel is the convenience and peace of mind it provides With a designated tour guide or organizer taking care of logistics such as transportation, accommodations, and activities, travelers can relax and enjoy the trip without worrying about the details This allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the destination's culture and attractions, knowing that everything is well organized and taken care of. Additionally, group discounts and deals often make group travel more cost-effective than traveling solo, enabling participants to enjoy luxury experiences at a more affordable price.

When it comes to choosing the hottest destinations for group travel, the options are endless From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the serene beaches of the Caribbean, each destination offers a unique experience that can be best enjoyed with a group Popular group travel destinations often include iconic landmarks, vibrant cultural experiences, and opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you are interested in history, nature, culinary delights, or simply relaxing on a tropical beach, there is a group travel destination to suit every preference

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LO QUE NECESITAS SABER SOBRE LA UNIVERSIDAD

Navegando el proceso universitario

¡Felicidades! ¡Es hora de ir a la universidad! ¿Por dónde empiezas? La conversación sobre la carrera universitaria no es una conversación habitual en el hogar de una familia latina Sin embargo, a lo largo de los últimos cinco años, el número de estudiantes que se gradúan de la universidad ha aumentado entre los estudiantes latinos. Uno de nuestros objetivos en la revista Chicago Latina es ayudar a cerrar la brecha de recursos, educación y oportunidades para que los estudiantes tengan un camino hacia la educación superior. Una de las cosas más importantes que se están llevando a cabo para evitar un mayor movimiento en la inscripción es comprender el proceso

La revista Chicago Latina tuvo la oportunidad de hablar con Gabriela Salinas, Consejera de Admisiones de Pregrado de Admisiones de la Universidad Dominicana Aquí hay algunos consejos para comenzar a buscar una universidad:

CONSEJOS

• Visite las escuelas y seleccione las que sean más adecuadas para usted Una vez que haya seleccionado esas escuelas, ¡presente su solicitud!

• Solicite ingreso a la escuela de su elección, complete su FASFA y consulte con su asesor para asegurarse de haber reunido todos los materiales que la escuela de su elección pueda necesitar. Algunos de esos materiales pueden incluir transcripciones actualizadas, cartas de recomendación e incluso una breve entrevista Las fechas pueden variar dependiendo de cada escuela pero

• Una fecha importante para recordar es el Día Nacional de la Decisión el 1 de mayo.

RECURSOS

¡Hay muchos recursos disponibles para los estudiantes cuando se trata de ayuda con los costos de matrícula. ¡Aquí hay dos excelentes recursos que puedes encontrar en el campus!

Primero, su Consejero de Admisiones es alguien que puede ofrecerle orientación sobre ayuda financiera, becas y subvenciones. Su Consejero de Admisiones puede ayudarle a delimitar posibles becas y subvenciones para las que pueda calificar

En segundo lugar, la oficina de ayuda financiera es un gran recurso. Su asesor de ayuda financiera lo ayudará a responder todas y cada una de las preguntas que pueda tener sobre la ayuda financiera ¡Estos son dos recursos realmente excelentes que se implementan para ayudar a los estudiantes a navegar estos tiempos desafiantes pero emocionantes!

,Una vez que haya seleccionado su escuela, se haya inscrito y haya sido aceptada, Gabriela Salinas dice: “¡El mejor consejo que puedo dar es que participe! La transición a la universidad puede ser aterradora, pero involucrarse en la vida del campus y familiarizarse con los recursos disponibles son los primeros pasos que daría para garantizar una transición más fluida ¡Date un poco de gracia, está bien que te des un poco de tiempo para resolverlo!

Fechas para recordar

Source: collegeaidpro com

ARE YOU READY FOR

If you have any queries regarding college enrollment, need guidance through the process, or require an advocate, please call Chicago Latina Magazine. Our members are dedicated to assisting you and your family in navigating the college enrollment process.

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Influenced by her Mexican immigrant heritage, Commissioner Corral Sepulveda's values of hard work and resilience drive her to implement policies that foster equity and opportunities within the water works industry, embodying the cultural ethos of "échale ganas. "

Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda's groundbreaking tenure as the first Latina elected to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in leadership roles. Her advocacy for vital issues such as water management, environmental sustainability, and community engagement reflects a strong dedication to public service.

Corral Sepúlveda shared her story to Chicago Latina Magazine with a humble heart. She recently discovered that when her great grandfather relocated to Texas, it was to work as a laborer. Upon arriving, he secured a position with the U S Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation at the Rio Grande Project in 1934 During his time there, he gained knowledge in architecture and engineering, skills which he later brought back to Chihuahua, Mexico He played a pivotal role in the construction of the enduring structures of San José Hospital de Parral and La Catedral CatóIica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church Drawing inspiration from her family's immigrant background, Commissioner Corral Sepúlveda's emphasis on hard work and resilience informs her efforts to promote equity and create opportunities within the water works sector. This strong work ethic and determination continues to resonate through the generations in Corral Sepúlveda's family

Corral Sepúlveda holds dear a cherished memory of her father imparting his blessing and instilling in her the resilience encapsulated in the phrase "échale ganas " during challenging times Despite not being able to provide material gifts, her father's enduring gift of strength through the Latinx cultural saying serves as a poignant reminder of perseverance and determination Encapsulated by the motto "échale ganas, " Commissioner Corral Sepúlveda's commitment to its ethos not only reflects her personal values but also underscores her mission to uplift and empower her community. Through her actions and advocacy, she embodies the spirit of resilience and showcases a deep dedication to supporting the residents of Cook County while advocating for a more inclusive and sustainable future for everyone She carries forward a legacy of determination and tenacity, driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future for all

At the age of 23, Eira Corral Sepúlveda embarked on her journey as a public official by being elected as the Village Clerk of Hanover Park in 2009. This marked her as the first Latina to serve on the municipality's elected Board and the youngest elected official in Illinois at the time Over the past 15 years, Eira has demonstrated her commitment to driving innovation, promoting transparency, and fostering inclusivity in local government Growing up in a working-class immigrant family, Eira's roots trace back to her parents' beginnings in Chihuahua, Mexico, before they made their way to the United States and settled in various areas before calling Hanover Park home for the past three decades Her father ran a small construction business while her mother worked in manufacturing and service industries before starting her own restaurant.

Eira's upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of civic engagement and the importance of representing diverse voices After completing her education at Driscoll College Prep High School and DePaul University, where she majored in Latino and Latin American Studies and Political Science, Eira persevered as a single mother while working diligently to support her son and earn her Bachelor's Degree Her career path led her to roles at the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI) before she assumed the position of Village Clerk of Hanover Park. In this capacity, Eira championed diversity and inclusivity, working to create initiatives that promote equity, diverse representation, and transparent governance within the community.

"I am excited to lead

with my fellow Commissioners on our work toward Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) enhancements aimed at ensuring we are being equitable in all of our District practices. This is an incredibly important initiative based on a foundation

of fairness and opportunity."

This year marks a special occasion for Eira as she celebrates her "leadership quinceañera" after serving 15 years in elected public office Drawing inspiration from the lessons of her Mexican immigrant community, she embodies the value of "échale ganas, " emphasizing the importance of hard work as success is not guaranteed Since her initial election to local government in 2009 and her groundbreaking achievement as the first Latina elected countywide as Commissioner for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District in 2020, Corral Sepúlveda has stayed true to her roots and principles From a policy standpoint, Corral Sepúlveda is a staunch advocate for equity in the workforce and trades She has spearheaded the launch of an engineering cohort internship pilot program in collaboration with the City Colleges of Chicago’s Wright College This innovative initiative aims to provide students with access to a quality and affordable education while showcasing the abundance of local talent in the workforce By partnering with the City Colleges of Chicago, Corral Sepúlveda is paving the way for economic growth and job opportunities within the water works industry at MWRD, underscoring the importance of investing in the future generation "I am a policy champion for equity in our workforce and in the trades. I've also helped launch an engineering cohort internship pilot program with the City Colleges of Chicago’s Wright College, which will create opportunities for students to access a quality affordable education. This pilot program highlights our homegrown workforce talent in partnership with the City Colleges of Chicago, as well as the economic & job opportunities in the water works industry at MWRD," says Corral Sepúlveda. She is excited to lead with her fellow Commissioners on their work toward legislation that would create a new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Department, aimed at ensuring we are being equitable in all of our District practices She believes this is an incredibly important initiative based on a foundation of fairness and opportunity

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) is a globally recognized leader in managing wastewater and stormwater, with a primary focus on safeguarding Chicago's water resources Despite having advanced gray infrastructure like the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) that can hold 11 billion gallons of stormwater to prevent flooding and sewer overflows, the MWRD faces ongoing challenges These challenges include the increasing impact of global warming, leading to more intense and erratic rain events, as seen in recent years with the rise in "100 Year" storms The MWRD must adapt to these changes to continue protecting public health, water quality, and critical infrastructure

The MWRD is emphasizing a combination of gray and green infrastructure solutions to enhance resilience and sustainability Green infrastructure projects, such as creating “green” playgrounds and planting native landscaping, not only mitigate flooding and protect water quality but also provide natural habitats for wildlife Furthermore, the MWRD is actively pursuing energy-efficient technologies to reduce its environmental footprint By investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind farms and striving for energy neutrality, the MWRD aims to enhance its sustainability efforts and contribute to combating climate change.

To address the complex and interconnected nature of these challenges, the MWRD emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration with various stakeholders, including municipalities, townships, and community residents. Equity and justice play a crucial role in decision-making, with a focus on addressing the disproportionate impact of flooding on marginalized communities due to historical discrimination and lack of investment in flood prevention infrastructure By working together with a diverse range of partners and prioritizing environmental justice, the MWRD aims to build a more resilient and equitable water management system for the future

Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda's historic election as the first Latina on the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) marks a significant milestone for Latinx representation in leadership roles. Her unwavering dedication to public service and advocacy for critical issues such as water management and environmental sustainability bring a fresh and essential perspective to the board.

Commissioner Corr blic “I recognize the significance of directly engaging with communities that are impacted by flooding and other challenges Prioritizing transparency and community involvement is a key focus of my office We actively connect with various communities in Cook County, utilizing geo mapping technology to ensure our outreach efforts are data-driven and fair ” Corral Sepúlveda emphasizes, "We take pride in organizing a variety of grassroots community events annually, ranging from initiatives promoting environmental stewardship to festivities that celebrate the beauty of trees and nature "

Elected amidst the height of the Covid-19 Pandemic, she demonstrated creativity and proactive outreach to the community in a safe manner Leveraging a strong virtual presence on social media, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) connected with thousands of constituents in real time. Particularly in areas heavily impacted by severe flooding last year, such as the western suburbs and the southland region, the MWRD made significant efforts. Eira personally engaged with affected residents at various community gatherings, including forums at Morton College in Cicero and in the Austin community, showcasing her commitment to addressing their needs.

In times of crisis, Corral Sepúlveda takes pride in the swift actions of the MWRD, which have resulted in saving over 180 million dollars annually in flood damage for residents, providing direct financial relief to many working families With her upbringing in a working-class family, she understands the profound impact of such cost savings Emphasizing environmental stewardship, she actively involves residents and community groups in initiatives like town halls, resource fairs, and the Latinx Stewardship Day with the Cook County Forest Preserves By introducing Spanish language programming, such as the Latinx stewardship at Possum Hollow Woods in LaGrange Park, IL, the MWRD ensures inclusivity and cultural representation in environmental efforts. Notably, focusing on monarch butterfly conservation not only highlights a commitment to native species in Illinois, but also symbolizes the migration journey of immigrants, resonating deeply with historically marginalized Latinx communities in both the city and suburbs. Efforts like Corral Sepúlveda’s Monarch Festival serve to bridge cultural gaps and promote environmental justice in areas where representation may be lacking, inspiring a more inclusive approach to conservation efforts.

MESA

Gaia Ristorante Italiano in Berwyn, IL, is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience The restaurant offers a unique twist on classic Italian dishes, such as their famous table side Cacio e Pepe served from a cheese wheel and their decadent table side Tiramisu These culinary delights are just a glimpse of the magic that awaits diners at Gaia Stepping into the restaurant feels like being transported to Italy, with its charming ambiance and warm hospitality The scent of fresh pasta and rich sauces fills the air, creating a sense of joy and contentment among the patrons, many of whom are regulars at this beloved establishment Gaia Ristorante Italiano truly captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its emphasis on quality ingredients and impeccable freshness, leaving diners craving for more.

Chicago Latina magazine had the privilege of immersing themselves in the flavors of Italy without ever leaving the Chicagoland area during their visit to Gaia Ristorante Italiano The experience was nothing short of extraordinary, with every bite telling a story of passion and culinary expertise The restaurant's commitment to providing an authentic taste of Italy is evident in every dish, showcasing the skill and dedication of the chefs behind the scenes From the first welcoming greeting at the door to the final bite of dessert, Gaia Ristorante Italiano exudes a sense of charm and sophistication that keeps guests coming back for more It's no wonder that diners find themselves longing to return, eager to savor the exquisite flavors and warm atmosphere that define this remarkable dining destination

In a bustling city like Berwyn, IL, Gaia Ristorante Italiano stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and lovers of Italian cuisine. The restaurant's dedication to excellence shines through in every aspect of the dining experience, from the carefully crafted menu to the impeccable service. Whether you ' re indulging in their signature dishes or exploring new flavors, Gaia Ristorante Italiano offers a culinary journey like no other With each visit, guests are treated to a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on the palate, leaving a lasting impression that beckons them back for more Gaia Ristorante Italiano is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of food, culture, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones

RIQUEZA GENERACIONAL

Los latinos, como muchas otras comunidades, tienen la oportunidad de allanar el camino para la riqueza generacional invirtiendo sabiamente desde una etapa temprana Al comprender el poder de la inversión y los beneficios que puede traer a largo plazo, los latinos pueden sentar una base sólida para la estabilidad financiera no sólo para ellos sino también para sus familias Si bien puede haber distintos niveles de compromiso con la inversión entre los latinos, existe una creciente conciencia dentro de la comunidad sobre la importancia de generar riqueza a través de vías de inversión como acciones, bienes raíces y cuentas de jubilación. Al aprovechar la oportunidad de comenzar a invertir temprano, los latinos pueden aprovechar el potencial del interés compuesto para hacer crecer su riqueza de manera constante a lo largo del tiempo y crear un legado financiero sustancial para las generaciones futuras.

A pesar del progreso logrado en aumentar la conciencia sobre la inversión en la comunidad latina, todavía queda trabajo por hacer para cerrar la brecha entre los latinos y otros grupos demográficos en términos de participación en la inversión Cada vez hay más iniciativas y recursos disponibles para brindar orientación y apoyo a los latinos que están interesados en invertir pero que pueden necesitar ayuda para comenzar o ampliar su cartera de inversiones Al acceder a estas herramientas y plataformas educativas, los latinos pueden obtener el conocimiento y la confianza necesarios para tomar decisiones de inversión informadas que se alineen con sus objetivos financieros. A través de medidas proactivas y un compromiso para generar riqueza generacional, los latinos pueden asegurar un futuro financiero más brillante para ellos y sus familias, asegurando estabilidad financiera y prosperidad a largo plazo.

En conclusión, el camino hacia la creación de riqueza generacional para los latinos implica una combinación de conocimientos financieros, planificación estratégica y un enfoque proactivo de inversión Al reconocer la importancia de invertir temprano y aprovechar diversas oportunidades de inversión, los latinos pueden fortalecer su bienestar financiero y crear un legado de prosperidad para las generaciones futuras Con los recursos, el apoyo y la determinación adecuados, los latinos tienen el potencial de superar barreras, cerrar la brecha de inversión y desbloquear los beneficios de la acumulación de riqueza a largo plazo Invertir hoy en el futuro financiero puede conducir a un mañana mejor para las familias y comunidades latinas, sentando las bases para una prosperidad y seguridad duraderas.

ADELA

VARGAS,

THE DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS COMED

Adela Vargas, the Director of External Affairs at ComEd’s South Region, is a dynamic leader responsible for spearheading strategic initiatives, cultivating relationships with local government officials, and overseeing the external affairs team's operations With a career spanning over 25 years at ComEd, Adela's journey to her current role has been marked by a series of significant achievements. Starting as the Transmission & Substation Senior Manager in the North Region, she demonstrated her expertise in managing station locations and executing complex construction projects Her diverse experience in various departments within ComEd, including Distribution Operations, Customer Service, Finance, and Strategic Planning, has equipped her with a holistic understanding of the organization's workings

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Adela is deeply involved in civic activities, dedicating her time to volunteering with organizations such as the Chicago Food Depository, Feed My Starving Children, and Habitat for Humanity Her commitment to community service reflects her authentic leadership style and passion for empowering others through mentorship Adela's educational background is equally impressive, holding a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts from Lewis University. Additionally, she has pursued certifications in innovation, decision-making, strategic growth, and communication from renowned institutions like the University of Notre Dame, Yale University, Columbia Business School, and Johns Hopkins University

In her personal life, Adela values her cultural heritage as a Latina and prioritizes maintaining a strong family foundation. Her dedication to equity and creating opportunities for future generations extends beyond the workplace, shaping her commitment to both her career and family life Adela Vargas stands as a shining example of a leader who not only excels in her professional endeavors but also actively contributes to the betterment of her community and values the importance of personal growth and cultural identity