Scholars of Color- Marinez Ruiz
What is Scholars of Color?
It is a platform in which scholars of color are purposefully celebrated. It’s a space where scholars of color are showcased front and center. It is a digital space where we feel empowered and resilient. Let us get to know each other. Let us cheer each other on AND show the world what we have to offer.
Let us now welcome Marinez Ruiz to the Scholars of Color space!
Name: Marinez Ruiz
Location: Originally from Porterville, CA | Currently in Fremont, CA
Gender Pronouns: She/Her/Ella
What's your current occupation? (i.e. Student, Scientist, Coach, In transition, etc.): I am currently an Operations/Policy Coordinator for CA EDGE Coalition. I also serve as Board Marketing Director for the MetroED Foundation.
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: I am a proud Latina! I am goal driven, determined, and creative. I enjoy seeking opportunities that grow my knowledge and provide a space to build connections and relationships. I love meeting new people and learning about ways they uplift their communities. With that said, I consider myself to show up for others as a mentor, a friend, a partner, a leader, and an advocate. I enjoy doing work behind the scenes, but I never shy away when it comes to stepping out of my comfort zone. By the way, I’m a Pisces!
What are you passionate about?: I am passionate about uplifting underserved communities of color, especially the Latinx community. There are so many issues that disproportionately impact Latinos that keep us from accessing higher education, obtaining quality jobs, building generational wealth, and much more! I understand and have faced these obstacles myself, and I want to break that cycle, not only for my family but for my community. Today, I am doing just that by educating myself about these issues, putting myself in spaces that uplift my community, sharing my knowledge, and serving as a resource for others. We need more Latinx representation in our communities, especially in positions of power! Si se Puede!
What does the representation of Scholars of Color mean to you?: The representation of Scholars of Color means providing a space for communities of color to share their stories and their experiences. I truly believe that telling your story is inspiring and impactful. I come from a first-generation, low-income, and mixed-status migrant background. When I listened to the stories of others who looked just like me, it gave me a sense of belonging and true connection. The stories of others motivated me to become the prideful Latina I am today!
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: Anyone interested in connecting with me can reach me through email at marinezaruiz@gmail.com, on Instagram @m.a.ruizz, or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinez-ruiz-71b75211b/
Anything else you would like us to know?: I grew up in a low-income, single-parent household, and I am the oldest of three siblings. Growing up with my sisters and my mom, I took on the role of a second parent, but I wouldn’t have changed any of it. It is because of my family that I grew up to be the educated Latina I am today, and I appreciate their continued love and support. My family has always encouraged me to seek out my dreams, take advantage of opportunities, and never be afraid to take risks and be my authentic self. With that said, I encourage others to chase their goals and step out of their comfort zone! You will be presented with opportunities, make new connections and meet like-minded people, and learn a lot about yourself and the person you become to be. Never be afraid to invest in yourself!
Thank you Marinez for sharing space with us!
Stay tuned everyone for more Scholars of Color profiles. Interested in being showcased yourself? Please email the Scholars of Color team at scholarsofcolor@reclaimingyourhappiness.com and we will get back to you shortly.
