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

Hi Ylenia, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired daily by underserved communities persisting despite immense barriers restricting their potential. Throughout my career, I have been driven to challenge unjust systems denying human dignity and equitable access to opportunity.

My inspiration stems from struggling families fighting just for clean water, children failed by broken systems, refugees fleeing terror in search of safety. It is rooted in the oppressed I have walked alongside battling for social justice.

I strive to address environmental injustice, unequal healthcare, and educational access by creating solutions informed by the marginalized and amplifying their voices in decisions dictating their fates. I remain committed to this work so future generations in vulnerable communities can thrive absent suppression and with greater possibilities realized.

My inspiration will forever come from lifting up people at society’s margins so the next generation may know liberation. I yearn for the day all human genius is unleashed when inclusion displaces oppression.

What should our readers know about your business?
I founded my consulting business from a desire to drive social change by shaping more equitable policy and building cross-sector coalitions. With a decade of experience organizing marginalized communities and influencing legislation benefiting working families, I believe lasting change requires translating grassroots voices into the halls of power.

My ability to work collaboratively across barriers and find common purpose grounds my approach. Whether leading a mass labor coalition expanding healthcare access or facilitating dialogue between tribes and policymakers on voting rights, I build bridges. Through deep listening and emphasizing shared values, I overcome gridlock to progress inclusive solutions centered in community needs.

This work is personal for me as a formerly undocumented immigrant. I know firsthand the oppression vulnerable groups face and where systems fail them. After gaining citizenship, I soon won office becoming the first Latina elected countywide in my district. I have since coached diverse candidates locally and nationally on organizing inclusive campaigns around kitchen table issues.

My pride comes from training young advocates to lead movements grounded in moral courage, nurturing rising talent especially from communities left behind. I get to pay forward precious opportunities I gained through mentors who believed in me before I believed in myself. My business grows by living these values of equity and developing everyone’s potential for the benefit of all.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visited, I’d ensure an unforgettable week highlighting Arizona’s beauty and charm!

We’d spend the first day in Phoenix grabbing lunch at Forno 301 before wandering Roosevelt Row’s boutiques and admiring vibrant street art. I’d treat her to dinner at Refinery Restaurant Progress followed by cocktails at the historic Wrigley Mansion bar.

The next morning we’d depart for stunning Sedona, hiking Cathedral Rock then relaxing at L’Auberge Resort’s popular brunch. Later I’d take her to cozy Elote Cafe for award-winning Mexican fare.

After experiencing Northern Arizona’s red rocks, we’d continue to Flagstaff to enjoy breakfast at Macy’s European Coffeehouse then lunch at family-run Delhi Palace Cuisine. Next I’d guide her on a breathtaking hike among golden Aspens before riding the scenic ski lift overlooking the Peaks end with dinner at Atria and stay at the charming Country Motor Lodge.

We would start our next day with breakfast at the majestic Phantom Ranch Canteen inside the Grand Canyon. After a hike, we’d picnic at a scenic canyon spot then enjoy a mule ride. For dinner, we’d savor gourmet cuisine at El Tovar Dining Room as the glowing canyon walls enchant and stay at their historic hotel.

Our last days would be a drive to Southern Arizona and visit Tucson, starting our visit to the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a stunning Spanish colonial mission. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the history of the mission. Afterward, grab a delicious breakfast at Cafe a La C’Art, known for its cozy atmosphere and tasty pastries.
Afternoon we would embark on a horseback riding tour with Tucson Horseback Riding Tour and experience the beauty of the Tucson desert from a different perspective. Afterward, we would enjoy a scenic drive along the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway and take in the breathtaking views. For lunch, stop by Taco Giro, a popular spot for authentic Mexican street tacos.
Evening. Take a stroll through Old Town Artisans, a charming marketplace featuring local artisans and unique shops. Enjoy dinner at Poca Cosa, a popular restaurant offering innovative Mexican dishes. End the evening with a drink at Titos and Pep.

The next morning, we would start with a visit to the Saguaro National Park, where we would explore the iconic saguaro cacti and enjoy scenic hiking trails. Grab a quick breakfast at Cup Cafe, a charming cafe known for its delicious coffee and pastries.
Afternoon head to discover the beauty of the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area with a self-guided hiking tour. Immerse in the stunning desert landscape and enjoy the tranquility of nature. For lunch, the Mediterranean cuisine at Mediterranean Market & Deli is known for its flavorful dishes.

Last day, end by visiting the Tucson Botanical Gardens and wandering through the enchanting gardens filled with diverse plant species. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Feast, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this shoutout to the phenomenal community of women who have raised, mentored, and inspired me – especially my sister, steadfast friends, and visionary mentors. Their wisdom, strength of character, and investment in my growth profoundly fuels my drive to create meaningful change.

Like my older sister, each woman leading by example in my life embodies resilience despite obstacles, generosity of spirit toward others, and tireless work uplifting their communities. Their integrity and moral courage have instilled my core values. Their acceptance gave me pride in my multifaceted identity.

These remarkable women taught me that progress requires solidarity across differences and lifting as we climb. By fighting for the vulnerable among us, I hope to honor their legacy of empathy and faith in human potential.

My village of sisters and mentors deserves immense credit for nurturing my leadership and purpose. I carry their investment, trust, high standards, and love with me to create spaces for the next generation to thrive. This shoutout is for each of them.

“It’s time that women participate in the management of this pathetic world on terms equal to men. Often women in power behave like hard men because it’s been the only way they could compete and command, but when we reach a critical number of women in positions of power and leadership we will tip the balance toward a more just and egalitarian civilization. More than forty years ago Bella Abzug, the famous activist and congresswoman from New York, summarized the above in one sentence: “In the twenty-first century women will change the nature of power instead of power changing the nature of women.”
― Isabel Allende, The Soul of a Woman

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ylenia-aguilar-7650012a/

Twitter: aguilar_Ylenia

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