Growing up in a Hispanic household where mental health was rarely discussed, I lacked the resources to address my own struggles with depression. This resulted in numerous personal challenges. Tragically, I lost two friends to suicide, which served as a wake-up call and fueled my desire to make a positive impact. At the age of 16, I began going to the gym, which became a key tool in managing my mental health. While I was committed to working out, I lacked proper guidance and knowledge, often unsure if I was approaching it correctly. I deeply wished for mentorship during that time.

After graduating from high school, I enrolled in college to study psychology with the long-term goal of opening my own counseling practice, paired with a gym that would provide clients with the opportunity to improve both their mental and physical well-being. However, I faced a significant depressive episode and adjustment issues, which led me to leave school and move to Chicago in search of a change in environment. Despite this setback, my passion for helping others through fitness and mental health never wavered.

While my academic journey did not unfold as planned, my aspiration to open a gym that supports individuals in both their mental and physical health remains strong. I have obtained my personal training certificate through ISSA and I am continuing to educate myself with other certificates. I am particularly focused on serving minorities and women in the fitness industry—groups who often lack access to the necessary resources and support. The predominantly male-dominated fitness industry needs more inclusive, safe spaces for people to focus on their mental health, strength training, fitness, or to maintain their well-being. My vision is to create a welcoming environment for all—whether you're a beginner, an athlete, or someone seeking to improve both mentally and physically.