Imperial Valley People

11/26/2025

MEET: Karissa
"Hi friends! My name is Karissa, and I am a wedding photographer: I travel all across Southern California, but the Imperial Valley has, and always will be, my home. I’ve lived in our Valley my entire life, and I’ve had the joy of turning my passion for documenting love into my full-time career. I give all glory to Jesus; this truly is His business that He’s simply entrusted me with. My faith also shapes how I care for and serve my couples. I am inspired by my husband, who is my biggest supporter, and the beauty of candid moments throughout a wedding day that often go unnoticed. When I’m not behind the camera, I love lifting at the gym (which helps me carry my camera around all day). I also love spending time with my family (especially my nieces and nephew), or visiting one of our local coffee shops. The Imperial Valley has always been home to me, not just because I grew up here, but because of the people, the roots, and the comfort it brings."
Nominated by:

11/03/2025

MEET: Liliana

"Hi, my name is Liliana Lam
I’ve been living in the Imperial Valley for 10 years, a place that has witnessed my personal and professional growth.
I’m a professional photographer specialized in studio, outdoor, wedding, and event photography. I’m passionate about capturing authentic moments filled with emotion and beauty, and turning them into memories that last forever.
I’m inspired by light, emotions, and real stories. I love connecting with people and capturing their essence through my lens. Photography is my passion, but I also enjoy traveling, singing karaoke, creating themed sets, and finding inspiration in the little details of life.
I consider the valley my home Because I found a community with soul here — warm, genuine people who opened their doors to me and made me feel part of something special. The Imperial Valley is where I’ve grown as an artist, as a mom, and as a woman, and that’s why I will always consider it my home."

10/31/2025

MEET: Josie & Alonso
"Hi we are Josie & Alonso, we’ve been in the valley for almost 4 years now. We recently launched our electrical contractor business here in the valley, so if you’re in need of an electrician please feel free to reach out! Our kids inspire us to grow everyday, they are our motor! We love everything off-road! Our hobbies are spending quality time with family, rock crawling, and camping. The valley became our home because our kids love it here, we’re originally from San Diego and they did not want to go back a week in. We love the culture here everyone has been so welcoming therefore literally home is where the heart is and the valley has our heart"
Nominated by:

10/26/2025

MEET: Oscar
"Hi! I'm Oscar I Garcia of . I have been in the valley for 50 years now! I'm a Loan Originator! My inspiration is Working as I was working for God, Family and my Clients! Music is my passion and my hobbies include Being a Disc Jockey, and going to Concerts!
I have lived here for 50 years and I love our Valley, the people and our culture!"
Nominated by:

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