Azucena’s journey began in Guatemala and brought her to the U.S. at the age of five. Raised amid cycles of harm and survival, she found her way toward healing in spaces rooted in care, the arts, and possibility. It was in those nurturing spaces that her purpose took root. Guided by lived experience and a deep belief that healing isn’t about “fixing what’s broken,” but about tending to our wholeness, Azucena has committed herself to the lifelong work of healing, nonviolence, and justice. She proudly raised two boys while pursuing her education and graduated from Pitzer College with a BA in Organizational Studies—shaping her path with both heart and intention. Her journey continues to affirm her belief in collective well-being as a path toward liberation.​

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Jorge's narrative unfolded in the United States, facing early challenges that propelled him toward self-discovery through education in psychology and philosophy. His return to a struggling Long Beach community awakened him to his true calling in community organizing, emphasizing the need for systemic change coupled with personal healing.​