"Be yourself and love yourself for who you are."
I am a true believer that sharing our stories deeply transforms us, changes the narrative of our community, and heals the world. The #Shareyourstory series is dedicated to highlighting diverse stories of Latinx individuals making a significant difference in their community. Learn more about Gisella's story below!
Pronouns:Her, she, Miss Glam, Sporty Girl, Hot Latina, Miss Trans Oregon and anything feminine.
Work Title (s) : I am a Zumba fitness instructor for Alder Elementary where I work to help parents and children get fit and continue a healthy lifestyle. I am also a manager Pambiche Cuban restaurant.
Who is Gisella? My story begins in 2011 when I publicly shared my story in the Basic Rights Oregon video "Our Families: LGBT Latino Stories." I shared my life experience of coming out as a transgender woman to my Mexican religious family. My family ended up disowning me after I told them I was going to be a woman. I prioritized my happiness even though I knew that I wasn't going to be able to see my family again. It was a very painful and heartbreaking reality but It was necessary in order for me to be happy and free. It took my parents 3 1/2 years to come around and understand how happy I was.
Did you attend college? If so, how did that impact your life? I attended college at Mt. Hood Community for a year and a half. There were many barriers that I faced in my educational journey. First, I felt that there weren't enough resources to apply for financial aid or programs to help me apply for LGBTQ scholarships. I felt that I was treated differently because of who I was and it was very difficult to find a good support system. Another big barrier was my mom's offer to pay for my schooling only if I studied what she thought was best for me, so I quit to be me.
What is the one thing you are working on daily? Be happy! Accept myself, believe in my dreams, and understand that only then everything will fall into place.
One piece of advice you wish someone would have given you during college or professional career? Be yourself and love yourself for who you are. If people leave you for your differences then they where never your friends to begin with. The universe will put new friends and families that will love you for you.
What is your favorite kind of coffee? I love a great cup of Atole de Guayaba with some good home made tamales.
En Solidaridad,
Araceli
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE A LEADER IN YOUR COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTED ON THIS BLOG PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME.
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