Not Your Ordinary Abuela: Yanira's Grandmother and Her Lasting Legacy

Every family has a matriarch whose wisdom and actions ripple through generations, shaping the lives of those who follow. For Yanira, her abuela was more than a grandmother—she was a visionary, mentor, and advocate. In an interview with Not Your Ordinary Abuela, Yanira shared the profound influence her abuela had on her personal, academic, and professional journey, leaving a legacy rooted in hard work, community service, and the pursuit of excellence.

Personal Impact: Aim High and Respect All

Summers at abuela’s house were unforgettable for Yanira. One of her responsibilities was collecting chicken eggs to sell, a task her abuela entrusted to her with a simple but profound lesson:

“Abuela always said, ‘No matter what you do, be the best and treat everyone respectfully,’” Yanira recalls.

Abuela’s belief in her grandchildren’s potential went far beyond words. Though she didn’t finish high school, she saw education as a pathway to greater possibilities. She contributed financially to help Yanira and her sister attend college, encouraging them to dream beyond the family catering business and pursue their ambitions.

Academic Influence: A Visionary for Education

Abuela was not only a trailblazer but also a visionary who believed in the transformative power of education.

“She taught us that we can accomplish anything if we work hard and stay persistent,” Yanira says. “She supported us financially and even sponsored student exchange programs and extracurricular activities where we could explore career pathways and internships.”

Through her generosity and foresight, Abuela created opportunities for Yanira and her family to grow, learn, and thrive. Her unwavering commitment to education has become a cornerstone of Yanira’s life.

Professional Guidance: Advocating for Yourself and Others

Abuela’s advice on navigating the professional world was simple yet profound:

“Opportunities won’t come knocking at your door—you must advocate for yourself,” she said. “Tell people what you want in life and seek sponsors who can help you achieve your goals.”

Her guidance taught Yanira the importance of mentorship, celebrating diversity, and empowering others. Today, Yanira applies these values in her career, mentoring others and fostering inclusive environments.

Legacy and Values: Giving Back to the Community

Abuela’s dedication to community service and education left an indelible mark on Yanira.

“My abuela believed that education opens doors, builds bridges, and creates opportunities to innovate and transform lives,” Yanira reflects. “She was deeply involved in giving back to the community, and I am proud to follow in her footsteps.”

Abuela’s legacy lives on through Yanira’s commitment to making a difference, both personally and professionally.

A Spanglish Poem: Abuela’s Huevos y Sue?os

En la casa de abuela, summers were the best,

Collecting chicken eggs, I passed the test.

“Be the best y sé respetuosa,” she’d say,

Her words still guide me every day.

No terminó high school, pero vio más allá,

She saw college dreams for mi hermana y yo.

She paid for clases, she made it clear,

“Education is the way, mi ni?a, don’t fear.”

“Opportunities no van a tocar tu puerta,

Go out, speak up, y sé muy alerta.

Find your sponsors, say what you need,

Con esfuerzo y pasión, you’ll always succeed.”

Abuela gave back, her corazón so wide,

Helping the community con orgullo y pride.

Her lessons de huevos and community care,

Are gifts from abuela, beyond compare.

Yanira’s abuela was a force of nature, embodying resilience, wisdom, and generosity. Her influence continues to shape Yanira’s life, reminding us all that with hard work, education, and a little advocacy, we can accomplish anything. Abuela’s legacy is a shining example of how one person’s kindness and vision can transform lives across generations.