Yesenia moved to the Rogue Valley in 2019 after completing her BA in Sociology and Masters in Public Policy. Throughout her academic career and beyond, Yesenia focused on Prison Industrial Complex abolition, which solidified in her the importance of community, mutual aid, and bolstering community self-determination through building up alternative systems of care. 

Yesenia has a diverse professional background spanning customer service, community resource navigation, and grassroots organizing. She channels her enthusiasm for community empowerment and food sovereignty into her role at Rogue Food Unites. Yesenia believes that above all, people are deserving of having their basic needs met with care, dignity, and respect. She is thrilled to contribute to the growth of a strong, supportive project that values mutual aid, building resilience, and community.

In her free time, Yesenia enjoys playing board games, gardening, and spending time outdoors and with loved ones.