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Imperial Valley People, Imperial, CA (2025)

11/20/2024

MEET: Leonor

Hi! I'm Leonor Herrera! I've been in the valley for 23 years. I'm a Dance and gymnastics Instructor for . My greatest passion is working with children and supporting their development. Witnessing their growth, both personally and physically brings me immense fulfillment. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how each child’s unique strengths emerge over time, and knowing I play a role in that process motivates me every day.
I consider Imperial Valley my home because it’s where my family and business have taken root. I’ve watched my children grow and thrive in this community, and I’ve seen my business evolve alongside them. The bonds formed here make this place feel truly special, and it’s a privilege to contribute to the community that has given me so much.

Nominated by:

11/18/2024

MEET: Gerly

"Hi, my name is Gerly!
I was born in the Imperial Valley, raised in Mexico, and came back right before COVID. It’s been amazing reconnecting with this community.
I’m a dog groomer and run a mobile grooming business here in the valley- .happytails I have a background in design with a BA, which really helps me bring a creative touch to my grooming work. I love making pets look and feel their best and enjoy meeting new families through my business. I’m inspired by the special bond between people and their pets. Each pet is unique, and it’s so fulfilling to help them shine. Grooming is my passion, and I’m always learning new ways to improve. Plus, my own dog, Tory, keeps me motivated to keep growing as a groomer. The Imperial Valley is such a close-knit, supportive community where people really look out for each other. It’s home to me because of the wonderful connections I’ve built, both personally and professionally. It’s rewarding to work in a place where supporting local businesses is a shared value."

11/04/2024

MEET: Susana
Hi! My name is Susana Irigoyen and I am the owner and director of in El Centro! I was born and raised in the valley. After graduating from Southwest High School, I attended Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri. I graduated in May of 2019 with my BA in Business Administration-Management and AFA in Dance. Three months after graduating from college, I purchased Dancin’ Feet (my childhood dance studio) and began my new career. Imperial Valley has always been my home and I felt that it was important to come back and give back to the community that helped me become the person I am today. Dance is my passion! My goal as a business owner and teacher is to share my passion for dance with all of my students and help them grow not only as dancers but as individuals! My students inspire me to continue learning and growing and I am so grateful and blessed to be doing what I love!
Nominated by:

11/01/2024

MEET: Bea
"Hi, I'm Bea Bachar of I was born to Beatriz and Florencio Ramirez. My parents made El Centro our home where I graduated from Central Union High School in 1987. I attended IVC but my life took a little turn and I was then working for my Padre’s fertilizer. I then followed in his footsteps in 1993 and opened my own business: Desert Valley
Transportation, Inc. in Imperial. In 1999 I moved to Shreveport, LA. with my four sons. I returned back to California in 2004 to join the biggest transportation company in the region. In 2014 I got engaged and that’s when I found my passion for the wedding industry. With the support and encouragement of my husband Brian, I started designing and styling my family’s events, and my specialty event rental inventory grew. He made my dreams come true. It was in 2015 when My Vintage Rental Boutique opened its doors.
My whole life, all I knew was the transportation industry and it wasn’t until 2018 when met someone special who took me under her wing and taught me everything about the event industry. I sat at her table taking notes and it was a complete class for a month. Boy! She took me on ride-alongs too! Her name is Regina Saavedra owner of Jake Duke Studios and has won year after year “Best Of The Best for California Weddings”. I also have another friend who is over the charts in the wedding industry and her name is Drew Rios, owner of Rogue & Fox Floral Co. I have been blessed to know these ladies and am grateful for them. I am also the
owner of a specialty event rental company and Design & Style.

My husband, father, and my 4 sons and daughter-in-law, Michele Mack have been my inspiration. My hobby is putting designs together on mood boards.
I enjoy creating unforgettable memories for my clients. Being able to make their dreams come to reality.
I consider the valley my home because I love the small-town community. When you go shopping you see a face you recognize. The family atmosphere is what brings our community together."

10/16/2024

MEET: Maritza
"Hi! I'm Maritza Recinos. I've been here in the valley since February 2024. I am the proud owner of in Brawley, CA. As a first-generation immigrant from El Salvador, l find motivation in inspiring others specifically my family. I am a testament that with hard work and education, anything is possible. I never dreamt of owning a farm but God had blessed me with a beautiful
piece of land and I wish to share it with my family, friends, and the community.
When I am not working at the farm or preparing for a wedding | enjoy traveling, wine tasting, concerts, and exploring new places (we have so many here in the valley). Right now my hobby is farming.
As the "new kid" in town, I have been amazed and inspired by the generosity and hospitality of the people of the valley. I moved to the Imperial Valley to run my wedding venue not knowing anyone but have met people who have guided me in navigating the hospitality/ wedding/event planning industry. People are just so nice here."

Nominated by:

10/07/2024

MEET: Danae

"Hi, I am Danae Payan, I have lived in the valley pretty much my entire life (28 years to be exact). I am the owner of where we offer group-based functional fitness and strength & conditioning classes to people of all fitness levels. Some of my hobbies include training, spending time with my family, watching my kids play sports, and spending time to take care of myself. Imperial Valley is the place we call home because we love the small-town feel. More specifically, Imperial has been our home for the past 8 years and my family and I truly love it here. Having our business in Imperial has allowed us to be involved in our community and connect with people on a daily basis."

Nominated by:

09/25/2024

MEET: Mirelly

My name is Mirelly. I’m a Valley local, I have been here all my life. I’m a Nail technician who’s been in the business for 14 years, God, My husband and kids are my inspiration. They inspire me to keep going on a daily basis. I have a Passion for Fashion, I love getting up every morning and getting ready for my day. When I’m not at work I love spending time with my family and creating memories with them. We enjoy riding motorcycles and camping in the desert! Imperial Valley is my home because it’s the perfect place to raise kids. It’s the place we’ve built our home and it’s now filled with love and dreams!

Nominated by: .panduro

09/20/2024

MEET: Esmeralda

"Hi my name is Esmeralda Avina and I was born and raised here in the beautiful Imperial Valley. I love the location and family atmosphere of our small community. I work as a Professional Makeup and Brow Artist at I love providing my clients with excellent service and a broad array of eyebrow and beauty services. Making all my clients feel confident and beautiful one brow at a time is very fulfilling and my overall goal! The people who inspire me the most would have to be my son and daughter. They are my world and give me the motivation and drive to keep going. God, my family, my boyfriend, and my Pilates family also gave me great support and encouragement. Having a positive support system around you is what makes those hard days much more manageable. Remember that teamwork makes the dream work.
I can consider Imperial Valley home because it’s the community and culture that raised me. Small local businesses, great food, affordable prices, and an overall small-town vibe will always make the valley my home."
Nominated by:

09/19/2024

MEET: Virginia

"Hi! My name is Virginia Manriquez.
I have been in the valley for 19 years!
I'm a house mom, but I have a little business called cocktails we provide bartending and Waiters service and we also rent tables, chairs, jumpers, and heaters. We also make customized T-shirts.
The people who have inspired me to do what I love doing are my family because they help me push myself and help me become a better person.
I consider Imperial Valley my home because my family is here. All my three kids go to school here in the valley."

Nominated by:

09/17/2024

MEET: Jimmy

"Hi! I'm Jimmy Gomez
I've been in the valley for almost five years now. I'm a Youth Pastor at My faith in the Lord is my primary source of inspiration. My wife and my kids are part of that inspiration as well. I would also add the students that I get to reach through ministry are also what inspires me. Though most would say they're the future, they're incredibly resilient; I believe they're the now.
As for hobbies, I love to travel, watch sports, and try new food spots.
The Imperial Valley is unique and quite different from what I grew up in (LA), and for the past five years, I have learned to love this incredible community. The Valley represents opportunities and is a perfect place to raise a family, but ultimately, the Valley isn't a place; it's a people. The people who make up this community are incredible, and I have been embraced by them."

Nominated by:

09/16/2024

MEET: Brigitt
“Hi, I’m Brigitt! I was Born and raised in the heart of the Imperial Valley, I’m the proud owner of .dents.blanches where we bring smiles to life with cosmetic teeth whitening and tooth gems. After having my second son, I made the tough decision not to return to the medical field. Becoming a stay-at-home mom was challenging, and battling postpartum depression made me question whether to start my own business. The fear of juggling life and a new venture was overwhelming I didn’t want to fail myself or my family.
But my kids became my biggest motivation to step out of my comfort zone and create La Dents Blanches right here in the Imperial Valley. I am 3x certified in teeth whitening and 1x certified in tooth gems. Beyond beauty and bling, La Dents Blanches is about building self-confidence and falling in love with your smile again.
When I’m not working, I enjoy shooting, photography, and going to the desert to watch my kids ride quads, making memories with them. La Dents Blanches has allowed me to create a life where I can be present for my children and grow as a small business owner in the place that will always be home.”

Nominated by:

09/14/2024

MEET: Kimberly

“Hi! Kimberly Alfaro Massey of Born & raised in the heart of the Imperial Valley, I have always considered El Centro and Heber not just where I grew up, but the true home of my creative spirit. My connection to this community runs deep; it’s where I have cultivated meaningful relationships and found inspiration to foster growth in a way that is both artistic and nurturing. As an art practitioner, instructor, and founder of Unwind & Design Creative Studio and The Den, I strive to be a creative force that uplifts and engages my community.
At our studio, I’ve created a sanctuary where anyone, regardless of experience, can express themselves and find peace through the power of art. From one-on-one lessons to large workshops with over 200 participants, I’m dedicated to showing people that everyone can be an artist. My studio offers a variety of programs, including faculty enrichment sessions, paint-and-sip lessons, and collaborations with local schools, behavioral health services, and alternative education programs.
In addition to teaching, I’m proud to manage local artists, helping them find their footing in the industry. At The Den, we host a range of creative events—open mics, art galleries, and music shows—often to benefit our new food pantry initiative, which addresses food insecurity in the Imperial Valley.
I find inspiration in the many local business owners and social advocates who, like me, believe in the power of creativity to bring about social change. My life’s work is about more than just art; it’s about using creativity as a tool for communication, community building, and fostering resilience. Working alongside my neighbors, I aim to uplift the Imperial Valley through art, advocacy, and connection.”

09/13/2024

MEET: Marissa

"My name is Marissa Nicole Esparza Rodriguez. I was born and raised in the Imperial Valley for 37 years however throughout my career I’ve been able to travel and live in many cities such as San Diego, Chicago, and Florida. I’ve been in the makeup industry for 16 years but my heart and passion/ are healing through intentional jewelry, crystals, clinical herbal medicine, energy, touch, etc. With that, in 2019 my small business, came to light. My everyday inspiration and passion come hand in hand with what I do, I love helping others and giving back to my community. If I can help or make a difference in one person's life then I’m making all the difference, this is what we need more in this world. My community, my roots, and my heart will always be here in the Imperial Valley. I’m forever grateful to my husband, parents, and my huge family for my everyday push and motivation."

Nominated by:

09/12/2024

MEET: Alexa

"Hi! My name is Alexa Sonia Martinez I’ve been living in Imperial Valley for 23 years, born and raised.
I’m a Tattoo Artist at in El Centro. Did a 2 year apprenticeship with my mentor Juan Gamez. I’ve been officially a tattoo artist for 2 years.
My biggest inspiration has to be all the creative works of amazing artists such as Tim Burton, Rebecca Sugar, Junji Ito, and Hayao Miyazaki. Art is my passion, I dreamed of being an artist since childhood. In high school my art teacher motivated me into pushing my artistic goals for the future. Big thank you to Mrs. P from IHS.
The valley has allowed me to establish myself as an artist and be a part of a community I love. My friends my family and the places here all make it my home. I’m very thankful for everyone who’s supported me and all the wonderful people I’ve met."

09/12/2024

MEET: Joaquin

"Hi! I'm Joaquin Zambrano. I've been living in the Imperial Valley all my life which is 41 years. I'm the Director of Trinity Behavioral Health a private outpatient mental health clinic in El Centro, CA.
The vision and mission of being part of founding Trinity Behavioral Health was to provide our community with another option and opportunity to take care of their mental health. Having this private mental health clinic has allowed me to continue understanding the need for such services and the reception has been more than rewarding.
What inspires me is not only those who have supported me throughout my life and endeavors but also- the WHY... The positive impact, footprint, and legacy that I want to leave behind for others to live and learn from like continuing to be better humans and chasing a life of fulfillment.
My passion is to make people smile and spread hope. My hobbies are to entertain and travel, even if it's down the street. Imperial Valley is my home because my family is from not only this valley but from the Valley of Mexicali... Despite the heat, it's a great place and community to raise a family. I love that the Imperial Valley is near snow, mountains, beaches, sand, etc."
Nominated by:

09/10/2024

MEET: Remy
"Hello Everyone! My name is Aracely Ochoa but everyone knows me as , I was born in Mexico but my parents brought me here to the U.S. when I was 3 years old. I am a business owner of two hair salons Persais Royal Hair Salon and soon I will also have my online store up and going! I am passionate about helping cancer and alopecia patients such as women and children by donating wigs. It brings me joy to put a smile on their faces. I love the valley because I love the people here in the valley, they're very loving!"

Nominated by:

09/09/2024

MEET: Edgar
"Hello! I'm Edgar Tirado. I have lived in Calexico my whole life. I love the valley. I am a photographer/business owner. I own Goodlife Photography. It’s an event entertainment company. We offer various services. Photography, Video, LED DanceFloor, Photobooths, LED Robot and DJ. My family inspires me. My wife and kids, my mom, dad, and brother are my inspiration. Also, the people I associate myself with on a professional level inspire me. They show me that I am not doing enough. I need to keep grinding for all of you.
I consider Imperial Valley home because of the people and the community. There are people here in the valley that love to help and give back and they’ll go out of their way to do so. I try to do my part hopefully someone is watching and I motivate them to do the same"

09/06/2024

MEET: Aida
"Hi! My name is Luz Aida Perrone! of I've been in the valley all my life. I have many professions but my current and full-time one is Mat Pilates Instructor at Sculpt Fusion Pilates. I'm also the owner and creator of Sculpt Fusion Studio. My passions and hobbies are Pilates, of course, fitness, and helping animals. Imperial Valley is my home because I was born and grew up here. I have been here all my life!"

Imperial Valley People

11/20/2024

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