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Imperial Valley People, Imperial, CA (2025)

02/10/2025

MEET: Claudia

“Hello there! I am Claudia Pineda Cobian, of
Even though I was born in Mexicali BC, I have lived most of my life in the United States. I grew up in Mendota CA and Fresno CA where I have amazing childhood memories and stories. I moved to the Imperial Valley in my teens.
I have been living in the Imperial Valley for more than 30 years now, and I love it! I’m an entrepreneur. I am the CEO of Cafecito Bar, owner of Mi Casita Food, and owner of , an all-exclusive women's gym. Having my own business has always been my passion and dream.
I truly believe that by putting God first, with the right plan and the right mindset, dreams do come true. My biggest motivation it’s to live a meaningful and fulfilling life by positively impacting each person. I love creating local events that support other small businesses and bring the community together. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, reading, cycling, running anything that involves nature and personal development.
My favorite thing is listening to my kid's stories at family gatherings. They are loud, haha.
I loved being part of the Imperial Valley, our community is strong and united. My current personal goal is to complete my certification in Specialized Woman Fitness. My inspiration is my story. When I came to the United States, I came only with a backpack. However, the desire to accomplish big goals has always been in my heart and mind. Dreams do come true! Si Se Puede!”

01/27/2025

MEET: Bella

"Hi, I'm Bella Serrano of . I have lived in Imperial my whole life and I was born and raised in Imperial Valley. I started my own baking business in 2023 but I've been baking for fun since 2021. I aspire to own my bakery someday. I grew up watching my mom bake, and that inspired me to start baking. My whole family helps support my business as well as a very important family friend who was once my teacher Mrs.Escalante. Imperial Valley is my home because this is where I was born and raised and I love the community."

01/23/2025

MEET: Tiffany
"Hi My name is Tiffany Rodriguez.
I have lived in the Imperial Valley my entire life—33 years. My “8-5” is working for the Migrant Head Start Program in El Centro, where I’ve been for 10 years. Additionally, I moonlight as a bookstore owner! I recently opened El Centro’s only local bookstore, located in the heart of downtown El Centro. My family inspires me every day, especially my husband. He’s the most hardworking person I know. My passions and hobbies include reading, watching any movie by Nora Ephron, and running. I consider the Imperial Valley my home primarily because my family resides here. My parents are the heart of what makes this place home for me. The Imperial Valley is truly unique—we’re a close-knit community full of talent and with so much to offer."

01/22/2025

MEET: Karina
"Hi there! I’m Karina, and I’m proud to call the Imperial Valley my home. I’ve been a licensed esthetician for over four years, and for nearly two years, I’ve been running my own business, . My signature services - Brazilian waxing and facials - are designed to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and glowing from the inside out. If you haven’t tried them yet, I’d love to have you in for a session and show you how amazing your skin can feel!

When I’m not working, I enjoy slow paced activities like relaxing at home, reading, watching movies, and spending quality time with my husband and our two cats. 💖

I draw my inspiration from my incredible parents, who taught me the value of hard work, faith, and trusting in God’s timing. And I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love and support of my husband, who inspires me every day to keep growing and pursuing my dreams.

I consider the Imperial Valley my home because it’s where my family is, and because of the incredible support I’ve received from both the local community and complete strangers. People here truly value small businesses, making this place feel like home."

01/18/2025

MEET: Amber
"Hi! I'm Amber Osuna, born & raised in Imperial Valley. I'm a Licensed Esthetician at .skin888 (Bewitching Skin), Owner of .beautybar & Child care provider. I’m inspired by individuals who strive to make a positive impact on others’ lives. My passion for skincare and wellness drives me to help my clients feel confident and beautiful. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new beauty trends, reading about holistic health, and experimenting with natural skincare recipes. I also find inspiration in nature, whether it’s a serene hike or a walk on the beach—these moments of tranquility rejuvenate my spirit and fuel my creativity."
Nominated by: .skin.and.beauty

01/17/2025

MEET: Jeanette
"Hi! My name is Jeanette Trejo. I have lived in the Imperial Valley since I was 7 years old. I am a full-time Registered Dental Assistant for the State of California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and owner of The Olive Box Charcuterie & Grazing .olive.box . Event planning and hospitality have been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I remember planning surprise birthday parties for my teachers and classmates in grade school. I'm a creative person who appreciates the art of food and have been blessed to turn my creative skills and hobbies around food into the business it is today. I love to bring a smile to people's faces with my creations. I love to travel and spend time with my fur babies, Olive and Matcha. Fun fact: The Olive Box is named after my oldest fur baby, Olive. Imperial Valley is not only the place I call home because I have been here most of my life but also because the people make it feel like home. The local support makes me proud to be from here."

01/16/2025

MEET: Italy Juliann
"Hi! My name is Italy Juliann. I’ve lived in the Imperial Valley my entire life!
I’m a licensed esthetician and the owner of .skin.and.beauty , where I specialize in customized facials to help my clients achieve glowing, healthy skin.
I’m inspired by seeing my clients’ confidence grow through the skin care journey we share. I’m passionate about learning and improving my craft, and I love connecting with others who are just as dedicated to self-care and wellness.
Imperial Valley is home because of the supportive community and the strong relationships I’ve built here. It’s a place that has shaped who I am and inspired me to contribute by offering services that help others feel their best."

01/15/2025

MEET: Sendy
"Hello! My name is Sendy, founder and owner of . I’ve lived in Imperial Valley for most of my 43 years.
Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of working as a CrossFit L2 Trainer with a focus on Olympic Weightlifting as a USAW Certified Coach.

In my day to day, I get to connect and build relationships with amazing individuals who have a passion for fitness, health and self care. I assist them through their fitness journey and goals. They are my true inspiration and motivation to continue to do what I love most…COACHING!🏋🏻‍♀️

On my free time, I like to enjoy my house, work on my lawn, travel, explore other sports and join competitions that challenge me beyond my comfort zone.

Imperial Valley will always be my home. I love the people, the small town feel and most of all the smell of cow…lol maybe not that but I still love it here🫶🏻"

Nominated by: Olga Rodriguez

12/28/2024

MEET: Javi

"Hi, my name is Javi of . I've been in the Valley for over 20 years. I am a small business owner, entrepreneur & Engineer! My family & I are inspired by the connections we create through our business—seeing our customers enjoy our food, drinks, and events truly motivates me. My passion lies in bringing people together, whether it’s through hosting community events like plant exchanges or pop-up markets or simply creating a welcoming space for everyone. In my free time, I love exploring creative projects, whether it’s photography, cooking, or brainstorming new ways to enhance our offerings.
Imperial Valley is my home because of the sense of community here. It’s a place where everyone supports one another, whether through local businesses, community events, or simply sharing experiences. Running a business here has allowed me to connect deeply with the people and culture, and that’s something truly special."
Nominated by: Chan Plaza

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:

Imperial Valley People

02/10/2025

01/27/2025

01/23/2025

01/22/2025

01/18/2025

01/17/2025

01/16/2025

01/15/2025

12/28/2024

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11/18/2024

11/04/2024

11/01/2024

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09/19/2024

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