My foundation is built on a deep-rooted passion for helping others, focusing on our closest purpose: living well. Born in Quito, Ecuador, I migrated to Canada in 2016. My youth was spent volunteering at hospice centers and animal shelters in Ecuador, driven by a curiosity for creating enterprises and a love for learning, especially in medicine—an area I saw as closely tied to the essence of life.

After moving to Calgary, I continued my volunteer work with Calgary Alpha House and Inn for the Cold and took on social impact internships at Threading Change and CAUSE Canada. While pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Calgary, a mental health crisis led me to take a break and volunteer abroad. This experience taught me that helping others also improved my own wellbeing. Upon returning to university, I added a minor in psychology and focused on social impact projects. 

I am deeply inspired by social impact leaders who respect themselves and others, including animals. These leaders understand that kindness and empathy can transform the world. A story that inspires me involves a wise man and a young boy who sees thousands of starfish stranded on the beach. The wise man throws one back into the ocean. The boy says, “It won’t mean anything if there are thousands of starfish and you will never be able to help them all.” The wise man replies, “For this starfish, it meant everything.”

This story resonates with my belief in the importance of wellbeing. Even if just one person is helped or one animal is saved, it makes a profound difference. This belief drives my work and aspirations for a better world.

I envision a world where the wellbeing of all sentient beings is cherished. In this utopian future, everyone will adopt mental health tools to care for themselves and those around them, including animals. It’s a future where humans thrive, not just survive, and help others do the same. Though the world will never be perfect, our perceptions and adaptations will define how well we live.

I will continue to lead and expand the Mental Health Ecuador Foundation, reaching a broader audience to provide vital mental health tools to anyone in need. One key project I aim to expand is the development of wellbeing hubs—spaces where people can access mental health support in an accessible and enjoyable way. Additionally, I aspire to build social entrepreneurship focused on wellbeing, particularly in wellbeing tourism and social impact projects.

My role in shaping this future is multifaceted: leading initiatives, mentoring youth organizations, and advocating for wellbeing in corporate policies and touristic destinations. By promoting activities that serve as mental health tools globally, I believe I can make a lasting impact.

I wish to leave the world with a legacy of compassion, support, and practical solutions for mental and physical wellbeing. In return, I hope to gain the satisfaction of knowing I have made a meaningful difference and inspired others to continue this vital work. These aspirations drive me to continue my journey, turning challenges into opportunities and striving for a future where everyone can live and thrive in wellbeing.