Nayeli
Position: Mental Health Career Program Participant
Nayeli (she/her/ella) is a first-generation/Xicanx. She was born on the Kumeyaay land on the northern border of Baja California, Mexico, and migrated to Watsonville when she was five. Nayeli graduated with a master’s in social work from California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB). Nayeli maintains a deep connection to her Indigenous roots, as it fosters a sense of belonging and recognition of her identity as an Indigenous person on this land. This connection enriches her life, allowing her to engage with her community through traditional medicine, ceremonies, and local gatherings celebrating Indigenous culture and providing essential support. Through community, knowledge, and a focus on family, Nayeli continues to honor her heritage.
Through a trauma-informed approach, Nayeli aims to eliminate the stigma around mental health and create an inclusive environment where individuals — especially undocumented adults and young adults — feel welcome, and where equality between physical and mental health is encouraged. In her free time, Nayeli enjoys spending time with her dog, Kahleo, listening to music, taking photos, dancing in an Aztec danza group, and enjoying the company of family and friends.
