Meet Ivonne | Educator & Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ivonne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ivonne, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Love. I truly believe that everything I am and everything I do comes from love. I am a firm believer that love drives people to be brave, generous, and creative. I find inspiration in watching people advocate with empathy across different communities. As an educator, I feel that my duty in the classroom is to make sure my students feel supported and loved. Love is really the driving force that keeps me pushing forward through both my personal life and career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a high school teacher, one of my greatest points of pride is the safe and inclusive community I build every year in my classroom. It’s a space where my students not only learn from me, but where they allow me to be a lifelong learner myself. My goal has always been to create an environment where students feel seen, heard, and empowered to be themselves.

My path to becoming an educator wasn’t easy. As a proud first-generation college graduate, I often had to navigate unfamiliar territory on my own. There were moments when I felt lost, unsure, and overwhelmed—but I gave myself permission to take up space and keep going. I asked questions, sought out support, and leaned on the resources around me. Each challenge I overcame made every milestone feel that much more meaningful.

What I want the world to know is this: first-generation Latinas deserve to take up space. We belong in every room, every conversation, and every profession. Our stories matter, our voices matter, and we’re not just showing up — we’re thriving and excelling in the choices we’ve decided to make for ourselves. My journey is a reflection of that truth, and I hope it inspires others to step into their own power and pursue their dreams unapologetically.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting, we’d definitely spend most of our time hopping between coffee shops and bookstores—two of my favorite things. I’d take them to all the cozy cafés I’ve fallen in love with, the ones with really good lattes, local art on the walls, and that quiet hum that makes you want to sit and talk for hours or dive into a good book.

We’d check out some local independent bookstores too! The kind with handwritten staff recommendations, hidden corners to read in, and maybe even a cat roaming around. I’d probably convince them to buy at least one book they didn’t plan on (and do the same myself, let’s be real).

In between, we’d find some great spots to eat—maybe some Latin-fusion food, a really good taco truck, or a place with a cute outdoor patio and live music. We’d balance it out with a chill walk through a nearby park or downtown area, just soaking in the vibe and catching up on life.

I’d want them to leave feeling full in all the ways that matter. Good food, better coffee, new books, and lots of laughs. That’s my idea of the perfect visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Everything I am is because of my parents. My parents are immigrants from Mexico, who like many others in this country, have uprooted their lives to give me the best life possible. To think about moving to a completely different country with a different language, culture, and unfamiliar customs sounds absolutely terrifying. This in itself is such an act of bravery and love. I am aware of how lucky I am to have been brought up in a loving home with two wonderful parents who always supported me in whichever direction I wanted to grow in. I truly believe my shout-out belongs to them—for their sacrifices and the way they’ve poured into me, helping me grow into the person I am today.

Instagram: @saloncinco