Imperial Valley People

09/09/2025

MEET:
"Hi! My name is Yasue Maeda Almodovar, born and raised in the Imperial Valley. I’m the soap maker and founder of , where I create natural soaps, lotions, and skincare products.
My passion comes from helping people—crafting non-toxic, handmade products with premium ingredients that I’m proud to share with my family, friends, and community. Bringing these products to the Imperial Valley brings me joy, especially since they’re not always easy to find locally.
I’m blessed with an incredible support system. My dad’s words still inspire me today—he always reminded me that growth comes from being your own boss. My mom, an RN with 39 years of soapmaking experience, passed down the craft I continue today. And my husband is my rock—helping with everything from production to designing our store.
When I’m not working, I love spending time with loved ones, traveling, and trying new restaurants. Over time, I’ve come to truly appreciate the beauty of small-town living here. The Imperial Valley is where I’ve built my business, raised my children, attended church, and created lifelong friendships. No matter where I go, I’m always happy to come back home."

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Nominated by:

08/27/2025

MEET: Melanie

"Hi I'm Melanie. I have lived in the valley since l was a teenager. Born and raised in Mexicali and I immigrated to the states at a very young age. Shortly after high school graduation I joined the U.S Navy and served a total of 4 years.
I am currently a Registered Dental Hygienist and a certified personal trainer. My page is I am inspired by mentors and role models. I appreciate and admire those who serve for the benefit of others. I am inspired by my own local community and my teams!
I am also inspired by nature!
The beauty of a sunrise and the colors of the sunset are priceless!
I enjoy painting, decorating and dancing! I have a passion for sports and athletics, as well as for teaching and mentoring. I consider the valley my home because In The valley I have made strong bonds, I have shared memories, and have experienced unwavering support, and acceptance from my entire community! It's home not because of the location but because this is where my loves are."

Nominated by: &

08/21/2025

MEET: Selene
“Hello, my name is Selene Mendoza, the creative eye behind the lens of I have been in the valley for over 21 years. I am proud to serve the Imperial Valley. With over 10 years of experience in the photography industry, I am passionate about capturing life’s moments in all forms, whether it be portraits, social events, weddings, quinceañeras, or projects. Inspired daily by my family, I bring heart and dedication to each session, believing that each photograph should tell a story worth remembering. With a versatile approach and an eye for detail, I specialize in social events such as weddings, quinceañeras, and celebrations to bring my clients’ vision to life. In addition to professional photography, I also offer photo booth rentals, creating fun and interactive experiences that make events unforgettable. At SM Photography, my goal is to deliver images and memories that are not only beautiful, but memorable.”

Nominated by:

07/26/2025

MEET: Sheri

"Hi ! I am Sheri Trejo ! I’ve lived in Imperial Valley my whole life, and my career has been a diverse one. I’ve worked as a gymnastics coach, orthodontic assistant, event coordinator for quinceañeras, and now, as a Pilates instructor at Studio 11 offering private lessons for women for their physical/ mental health. My goal is to foster wellness among women, and I’m motivated by the success of local entrepreneurs who have earned community support. My passion now a days has been to motivate others and also to be the best wife and mother to my 3 children to show them that anything is possible with the support of others!
That is why Imperial Valley will always be our home. I thank everyone that has always pushed me to go for it all!"

07/25/2025

MEET: Minnie
"Hi, I'm Minerva (Minnie) I've been in the valley all of my life, so 30+ years
I'm business owner! My Family and My daughter inspire me to be the best version of myself. I have a passion for personal development as well as cooking. My hobbies consist of being with my family & seeing what else I can cook up for .
I consider Imperial Valley my home because I was born and raised here, Calexico and Imperial Valley are my home."

NOMINATED BY:

05/28/2025

MEET: Odile

"Hi, my name is Odile of I have been living in the valley for three years now. I am a farmer and Iam working diligently toward establishing the first sustainable farm open to the public. Seeing firsthand the amount of toxic chemicals that are used in conventional and organic growing operations scared me enough to want to grow my own plants differently. That is why I chose to study agriculture and learned to combine what my mom and her mom taught her as self-sufficient people of the land, with my learning and experiences. This farm will not only be one of the first to open directly to the community but it will also help those who want to learn how to grow fruits and vegetables for themselves as well.
My parents inspire me, they are very hardworking, noble, and honest people. They’re not free of mistakes like all of us but they are positive people that have taught me resiliency, not because of where we come from but because you need it to confront life.

I love to dance, do Pilates, to create, paint, learn, explore, and stay active. I’m a curious person and I’m open to the opportunities life has to offer.

I consider the valley my home because this is where I grew up, I’m from Heber and Mexicali. I have family on both sides and although most of it is in Mexicali, the Imperial Valley is home to me. I’m very grateful for all the experiences I’ve been able to be a part of here, from being in Project ABEL at Heber School to graduating from Southwest. My first job was at the Forever 21 in Calexico when I was 16. This place has shaped my work ethic, my drive, my personality, and it will always have a very special place in my heart."
Nominated by:

05/05/2025

MEET: Victoria

“Hello everyone, my name is Victoria A. Fernandez DeSoto of I was born and raised here in the Imperial Valley, and this community will always have a piece of my heart. I’m a passionate Esthetician who specializes in acne treatments, and I truly love helping people feel confident in their skin. My approach is all about getting real results by finding the root cause—because I believe healing starts from the inside out.
What inspires me most are the people who don’t give up on themselves—especially those navigating tough skin journeys. I understand how deeply it can affect your self-esteem. That experience is what pushed me into this career and is the reason I pour my heart into every facial, every consultation, every client.
Outside of skincare, I love connecting with others, learning new things, and embracing wellness in all areas of life. Whether it’s through food, mindset, or self-care, I’m always looking for ways to grow and help others do the same.

I consider Imperial Valley my home not just because I grew up here, but because of the sense of community. There’s something so comforting about familiar faces, small-town support, and people who genuinely want to see each other thrive. I’m proud to be part of that and excited to continue growing here—both personally and professionally.”

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05/02/2025

04/16/2025

MEET: Julie
"Hi, my name is Julie, and I was born and raised in Southern California. My family and I moved to the Imperial Valley two and a half years ago, and I love the strong sense of community here. It’s nice to call the Imperial Valley my home—it’s quiet, peaceful, and a great place to live. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and spending quality time with my family.

I’m inspired by many things—my family, the children I have the opportunity to coach, and the resilience of those who push through challenges and overcome obstacles. Watching others grow, persevere, and succeed is truly motivating.

Last year, I opened All Star Cheer in the city of Imperial, where we train athletes ages 6-18 in all aspects of cheerleading and compete across Southern California and Arizona. As we prepare to kick off our second season in May, I’m excited to continue watching our athletes grow, gain confidence, and master new skills—seeing their progress is truly rewarding."

04/07/2025

MEET: Susel

"Hi, my name is Susel Ramos.
I’ve lived in the Imperial Valley for 12 years. I’ve currently been in the beauty of hand and foot care world for three years.
I’m the owner of .
There, I offer opportunities for growth. We’re a duo of beauty entrepreneurs.
I thank God for all of this.

My inspiration is my family. My husband and my three children. All of this is for them.

I consider the Imperial Valley my home, where it has given me so many opportunities. I enjoy and love this place."



Nominated by

04/02/2025

MEET: Tomas

"My name is Tomas Renteria
I was born in Mexicali 49 years ago. I studied Food engineering, later on, and I got a B.A. in business administration.
My inspiration has always been to become a successful business entrepreneur and start my own business. I started my own water and ice plant and distribution business as well as a family boutique in Mexicali, nowadays I own Tommy's Party Rentals , a successful party rental business.
We serve the entire Imperial Valley with a capacity to tend to over 3000 people many of which include schools, government offices, businesses, banquet halls,and parks just to name a few.My passion in life is business. I would like to create brands to serve my clients and offer the best service possible.
I love the imperial valley because it is a great place to live and perfect for my business."

03/06/2025

MEET: Brianna

"Hi! I'm Brianna! I was born and raised here in the Valley! I’m the Media & Communications Officer for (Imperial CBD extraction), the first fully licensed seed-to-shelf CBD extraction facility in Southern California, and its sister company, (Golden State CBD), the Valley’s only handcrafted, CBD-only retail store. My job is all about making sure both thrive—not just locally, but someday on an international scale.

I’m inspired by people who lead with empathy and kindness, no matter our differences. In a world that can feel divided, I admire those who choose understanding over judgment.

I’ve always been drawn to the arts—whether it’s fashion, music, or any form of self-expression. I love dressing up for no reason, painting, and I love my work because I am constantly designing!"