Meet our Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Directors:
Los Angeles De Crystal Director / Co-Founder : Mr. Omar Espinoza
My name is Omar Espinoza, I was born on February 28, 1986. I currently hold the title of Executive Sous Chef with a company called Chartwells. I am second in charge to the Executive chef. I oversee the food service production at University Center at 525 S. State St. I have been in the foodservice industry for about 8 years now. With the position of Sous Chef I have been able to not only expand my knowledge of the food service industry but also to educate many of my workers. Being a chef is 66% being a teacher. With this career I have also been able to actually teach the art of cooking to a number of people including a group of women from Instituto Del Progreso Latino. These women were beginning their lives over after having been in abusive relationships. During a 10-week course I was able to teach them the fundamentals of cooking. These skills would be sufficient for them to continue their education in the field of culinary arts or even enough to begin working in the foodservice industry. I have also had the privilege of teaching high school students the basics of cooking. In 2012 I teamed up with Monica Becerra and Los Angeles De Crystal. I was introduced to Monica through the Co-Director of LADC, my mother Olaya Espinoza. I am currently the President and Co-Director of LADC. I enjoy my position because through it I am able to reach many young people and help promote them into post secondary education. As I continue to grow in my career I look forward to being able to educate in the art of food and life.
Thank you for your support!
-Mr. Omar Espinoza
Co-Founder/Director of Los Angeles De Crystal
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Promoter/Event Coordinator/Co-Founder: Ms. Monica Becerra
HOLA! VIVA LA EDUCACION & CULTURA!! My name is Monica Becerra I am a proud Latina born and raised in Chicago, Illinois but always in my heart lies my dear land of Mexico. I come from immigrant parents who were born and raised in JALISCO, Lagos De Moreno, Mexico. I take my culture very seriously and I am very proud of my roots and my ancestry. For me culture and remembering where I come from is something that I take great pride in and I am very proud of. Aside from loving my culture! I am a huge MUSIC lover though I am not a musician music to me is like my best friend and companion through the good and bad times. I find that music helps describe all that we feel inside when words cannot express what we feel inside. Music is something I find very close to my heart especially from inspirational artists such as Geovanni Mondragon and Jorge Alberto Lopez from Banda El Recodo, Charlie Zaa, Laura Pausini and Jesse Y Joy. These are individuals whom with their music, their motivation and determination have inspired my life and created a positive impact in my life. Other people that have inspired my life are inspiring journalists whom with their writing have created a positive movement and inspire us to never give up and follow our dreams. Journalists like Lourdes Stephens (Univision), Stacey Baca (ABC 7 News), Vicky Aguilera (AMOR 106.7 FM), Lourdes Duarte ( WGN News), Clara Pablo ( Director of Artist Relations for Univision Network.), Geovanni Mondragon Lead Singer of Banda El Recodo, Jorge Alberto Lopez Musician of Banda El Recodo and a few others have inspired me to help make a difference and value education as together we can help create a better future.
I am the oldest out of two siblings I have one younger sister and I am the oldest. For me education is one of the keys to success that can open many doors and lead to many great opportunities.While growing up I suffered from being bullied I feel strengthen and glad I overcame these obstacles. Although the journey was not easy I am now unafraid to speak up and while I was bullied while growing up its thanks to my family, God and those who believed in me that I am where I am today. Coming from parents where their highest level of education was one year of college elementary school really inspired me to pursue higher education. Seeing the struggle both my parents faced was an inspiration for me and a call of hope that inspired me to move forward and continue onto the road of success. I took it upon myself to put my best foot forward and make sure that I focused on my studies and wanted to make my family proud and break the cycle of our low motivation towards pursuing higher education. In 2010 I graduated from Chicago Military Academy High school and was blessed to earn one of the highest military ranks and became one of the first Latina females to uphold the rank of Battalion commander and assume charge of the entire cadet corps in a ten year history. During my senior year in high school I was also awarded several medals by the JROTC Military Association. However my motivation to help others and determination to pursue higher education did not stop their. In 2010 after graduating high school I attended Harold Washington College and earned in 2014 a degree in early childhood and certifications in preschool and elementary education. I was also selected one of the top 24 student leaders in the city of Chicago for the year of 2012 in September of 2012 and was able to meet and sit down to interview the honorable Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Throughout my academic career and growth at Harold Washington I also made the Presidential Scholars List and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honorary Society. It was also thanks to love and support of my mother and my friends that when I graduated in May of 2014 from HWC (Harold Washington College) I was selected as a 2014 recipient by the Friends of Harold Washington to receive the Friends of Harold Washington Graduation Award which is only given to the top 5 students of the college.
However, during this time of my academic growth I really enjoyed reaching out to students, being of support and helping other students follow their dreams. It was during this time while in college that along with the support of my friends, community activists, media and great supporters that Los Angeles de Crystal was formed. For me forming a organization at the age of 19 years old was not something I had planned or had in mind. It was more of something that I wanted to join or be a part of. However, the order of events in which things happened I would not change them for anything in the world!! During my freshmen year in College I was a volunteer for many educational and cultural events. It was then that I discovered one of my greatest passions helping others and motivating others to follow their dreams. Little by little all started falling into place and through networking connections, attending events and a lot of sleepless nights Los Angeles De Crystal was formed. Seeing the need within my friendships, community and surroundings for a chance to strive towards higher education was one of my biggest motivations to begin to form a positive movement.
During the summer of 2012 unfortunately my cousin Crystal Fernandez passed away in México a car accident while vacationing with family in Jalisco, Mexico. This broke my heart because my cousin was a very happy, outgoing and enthusiastic person who had a whole life ahead of her. However, her time came to soon but in loving memory of my cousin my friends and I decided to name the organization after her. In this way students will always remember to live motivated, inspired and dream big. Just like my cousin Crystal was a hardworking dedicated and passionate student. We wanted to make sure her legacy continued on and that her story of her success while in school was shared in a positive manner where students and everyone in general will gain inspiration and motivation and continue to move forward.
I could not be more proud of the work that this great team has put forth. For me our LADC team is not only my family but professional from whom I have learned so much from and continue to do so day to day. I feel very honored to be able to work with what I feel is the best team in the world and they all hold a very special place in my heart. I invite everyone to join us at our events, join our LADC family and most of all allow us to inspire you and motivate you. As together we will help you pursue your dreams.
Because dreams come true when you believe! LOS SUENOS SE CUMPLEN!
Thank you! Gracias!
Monica Becerra
Co-Founder/Promoter/Event Coordinator of Los Angeles De Crystal
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director: Mrs. Olaya Espinoza
My name is Olaya Espinoza I came to the U.S.A. 44 year’s ago facing the toughest challenge of my life not being able to speak the native language of the U.S.A. I attended high school and got married with my lovely husband without finishing High School. I raised two sons, a wonderful daughter, and four lovely grandchildren. Then I returned to school and graduated with my H.S. diploma when my children were 3 and 4 years old. I became a stay at home Mom and took care of my family until my two oldest graduated from high school. I had a chance to return to school and I enrolled myself in college. I earned an Associates Degree of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education.
I consider myself friendly but personally reserved. I prefer to have a small number of close friends. I pride myself in being a good listener. Sometimes it is better to listen then to talk, especially with young adults. Since a young age I wanted to become a teacher. To me becoming an Early Childhood Educator is to have the opportunity to help and offer children a safe and healthy environment. I know that by listening, guiding, understanding, caring, and loving them I can make a difference in every child’s life.
One of my passions is helping my community as much as I can. In my previous job I met Monica Becerra a hard working motivated teenager who was always talking very enthusiastically about her dreams with Los Angeles De Crystal. I asked her what the requirements were for being a director, she replied, “just loving to help others! Ayudemos a los demas y vivamos alegres.” For the last two and a half years I have been one of the directors of LADC. I love that I can help by promoting the importance of pursuing a higher education as well as mentor-ship and tutoring for both high school and college students. I am happy that I can help by providing guidance as well as workshops for better self-esteem and increased confidence.
Helping LADC is a dream come true for me since I always wanted to help our younger generations. Seeing our members happy when we accomplish a goal makes me happy and proud! I take this happiness and positive attitude to wherever I go and I apply it to whatever I do. For this is and many other reasons is why I am a proud director of Los Angeles de Crystal (LADC). And I hope you will join us rather its in our upcoming events or joining us as a volunteer or LADC Member we welcome you to become a part of our family.
Thank you for your support!
-Mrs. Olaya Espinoza
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director
My name is Olaya Espinoza I came to the U.S.A. 44 year’s ago facing the toughest challenge of my life not being able to speak the native language of the U.S.A. I attended high school and got married with my lovely husband without finishing High School. I raised two sons, a wonderful daughter, and four lovely grandchildren. Then I returned to school and graduated with my H.S. diploma when my children were 3 and 4 years old. I became a stay at home Mom and took care of my family until my two oldest graduated from high school. I had a chance to return to school and I enrolled myself in college. I earned an Associates Degree of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education.
I consider myself friendly but personally reserved. I prefer to have a small number of close friends. I pride myself in being a good listener. Sometimes it is better to listen then to talk, especially with young adults. Since a young age I wanted to become a teacher. To me becoming an Early Childhood Educator is to have the opportunity to help and offer children a safe and healthy environment. I know that by listening, guiding, understanding, caring, and loving them I can make a difference in every child’s life.
One of my passions is helping my community as much as I can. In my previous job I met Monica Becerra a hard working motivated teenager who was always talking very enthusiastically about her dreams with Los Angeles De Crystal. I asked her what the requirements were for being a director, she replied, “just loving to help others! Ayudemos a los demas y vivamos alegres.” For the last two and a half years I have been one of the directors of LADC. I love that I can help by promoting the importance of pursuing a higher education as well as mentor-ship and tutoring for both high school and college students. I am happy that I can help by providing guidance as well as workshops for better self-esteem and increased confidence.
Helping LADC is a dream come true for me since I always wanted to help our younger generations. Seeing our members happy when we accomplish a goal makes me happy and proud! I take this happiness and positive attitude to wherever I go and I apply it to whatever I do. For this is and many other reasons is why I am a proud director of Los Angeles de Crystal (LADC). And I hope you will join us rather its in our upcoming events or joining us as a volunteer or LADC Member we welcome you to become a part of our family.
Thank you for your support!
-Mrs. Olaya Espinoza
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director: Mr. Jose Del Carmen Espinoza
My name is Jose Del Carmen Espinoza I was born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico in 1951. My father brought my family and I to Chicago in 1964. We then returned to Mexico in 1967. I attended High School in Mexico, then it was after five years we returned to the U.S.A. After having to move back and forth from my native country it was then that I met my wife. We then married on March 10, 1973. After, forming our family and having two children it was then when my wife and I decided to return to school. I completed my High School diploma and pursued my post secondary studies. At the same time that I attended college I became a volunteer as a facilitator at the Instituto Del Progreso Latino for more than ten years. I currently work as a mechanic for the maintenance department at Rickard Circular Folding. I have done this for the last 23 years.
I became involved with the organization Los Angeles De Crystal through my wife Olaya, and my son Omar Espinoza. My reason for becoming a member of LADC and a part of the Board of Directors is that I enjoy giving back to my community. I have struggled and have overcome many obstacles in my life that have made me the man that I am today. As I look at all of our Los Angeles De Crystal members and board of directors I see the potential that they have to become professionals in any career they may choose or aspiration they wish to follow. In order to form a stronger community we should unite and help guide our future generations. I am a father of three and I feel as if the members of Los Angeles De Crystal were my own and I enjoy seeing our young leaders grow, develop and dream big. I enjoy serving as not only a director of LADC but as a guide where I can help motivate, inspire and be a positive influence for all of our members, community and future generations to come.For this reason and many more I am a proud Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director and I invite you to join our team and become a part of our family!Help us continue to create a positive difference and help us build future leaders for tomorrow.
Thank you for your support!
-Mr. Jose Del Carmen Espinoza
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director
My name is Jose Del Carmen Espinoza I was born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico in 1951. My father brought my family and I to Chicago in 1964. We then returned to Mexico in 1967. I attended High School in Mexico, then it was after five years we returned to the U.S.A. After having to move back and forth from my native country it was then that I met my wife. We then married on March 10, 1973. After, forming our family and having two children it was then when my wife and I decided to return to school. I completed my High School diploma and pursued my post secondary studies. At the same time that I attended college I became a volunteer as a facilitator at the Instituto Del Progreso Latino for more than ten years. I currently work as a mechanic for the maintenance department at Rickard Circular Folding. I have done this for the last 23 years.
I became involved with the organization Los Angeles De Crystal through my wife Olaya, and my son Omar Espinoza. My reason for becoming a member of LADC and a part of the Board of Directors is that I enjoy giving back to my community. I have struggled and have overcome many obstacles in my life that have made me the man that I am today. As I look at all of our Los Angeles De Crystal members and board of directors I see the potential that they have to become professionals in any career they may choose or aspiration they wish to follow. In order to form a stronger community we should unite and help guide our future generations. I am a father of three and I feel as if the members of Los Angeles De Crystal were my own and I enjoy seeing our young leaders grow, develop and dream big. I enjoy serving as not only a director of LADC but as a guide where I can help motivate, inspire and be a positive influence for all of our members, community and future generations to come.For this reason and many more I am a proud Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director and I invite you to join our team and become a part of our family!Help us continue to create a positive difference and help us build future leaders for tomorrow.
Thank you for your support!
-Mr. Jose Del Carmen Espinoza
[email protected]
Los Angeles De Crystal Board of Director
Los Angeles De Crystal Student Acting Vice President :
Ms. Celena Marie Cruz
My name is Celena Marie Cruz. I am the Student Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal. I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. There are 5 children in my family, which includes me. As the youngest, I have had to assume many responsibilities such as helping to take care of my family whenever they need me and making them proud with a personal goal of mine which is to always making sure that they feel their sacrifices they have made for me have been all worth it. When I was 17 years old, I helped bring a little baby boy named Issiac Theodore Cruz on September 17, 2012 into this world. Though my journey has not been an easy one I would not change any of the obstacles that I have faced or had to overcome. It has made me a stronger person and a better mother now.
I only hope that my story and example serves as a positive one for all those who have ever had to overcome any obstacle in their life. Often times we wonder why we may go through so much and feel that we haven't moved up. However, I am here to say that every obstacle, every challenge we face has a purpose, a meaning and is only but one step closer to helping us achieve our dreams.
I currently attend is Robert Morris University Chicago Campus. I am currently enrolled to receive my Associate Degree in Applied Sciences, focusing in Paralegal Studies. Despite the many sleepless nights of homework, the load of working and going to school and being a young mom I intend on pursuing my dreams. Education is power and we are in control of that power. We are all leaders and can help create a positive difference. Being that I graduated from a military high school here in Chicago called Chicago Military Academy Bronzeville I have used the tools given to me to be of good help and a positive leader as the Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal. Becoming a part of this great time has been a dream come true they have been the family I have needed through this new journey of my life. Our members are like brothers and sisters to and our directors have become like our second parents. They have instilled in us moral values, increased our self esteem and touched our lives in a unforgettable way that has brought great joy in our lives.
As a member of and Student Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal I can only say that the expierence has been a memorable one. I have met many inspiring individuals that have impacted my life tremendously and continue to do so. Los Angeles De Crystal has opened many doors for me by networking connections, helping me develop my leadership skills and so much more. I invite you to join us at our events, join us in our gatherings, workshops or join our team. And experience it for yourself and join our family and help us promote the importance of education and culture as together as one we will help inspire lives and be the guide many may need to follow their dreams!
Thank you for your support!
-Ms. Celena Marie Cruz
[email protected]
Student Acting Vice President
Ms. Celena Marie Cruz
My name is Celena Marie Cruz. I am the Student Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal. I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. There are 5 children in my family, which includes me. As the youngest, I have had to assume many responsibilities such as helping to take care of my family whenever they need me and making them proud with a personal goal of mine which is to always making sure that they feel their sacrifices they have made for me have been all worth it. When I was 17 years old, I helped bring a little baby boy named Issiac Theodore Cruz on September 17, 2012 into this world. Though my journey has not been an easy one I would not change any of the obstacles that I have faced or had to overcome. It has made me a stronger person and a better mother now.
I only hope that my story and example serves as a positive one for all those who have ever had to overcome any obstacle in their life. Often times we wonder why we may go through so much and feel that we haven't moved up. However, I am here to say that every obstacle, every challenge we face has a purpose, a meaning and is only but one step closer to helping us achieve our dreams.
I currently attend is Robert Morris University Chicago Campus. I am currently enrolled to receive my Associate Degree in Applied Sciences, focusing in Paralegal Studies. Despite the many sleepless nights of homework, the load of working and going to school and being a young mom I intend on pursuing my dreams. Education is power and we are in control of that power. We are all leaders and can help create a positive difference. Being that I graduated from a military high school here in Chicago called Chicago Military Academy Bronzeville I have used the tools given to me to be of good help and a positive leader as the Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal. Becoming a part of this great time has been a dream come true they have been the family I have needed through this new journey of my life. Our members are like brothers and sisters to and our directors have become like our second parents. They have instilled in us moral values, increased our self esteem and touched our lives in a unforgettable way that has brought great joy in our lives.
As a member of and Student Acting Vice President of Los Angeles De Crystal I can only say that the expierence has been a memorable one. I have met many inspiring individuals that have impacted my life tremendously and continue to do so. Los Angeles De Crystal has opened many doors for me by networking connections, helping me develop my leadership skills and so much more. I invite you to join us at our events, join us in our gatherings, workshops or join our team. And experience it for yourself and join our family and help us promote the importance of education and culture as together as one we will help inspire lives and be the guide many may need to follow their dreams!
Thank you for your support!
-Ms. Celena Marie Cruz
[email protected]
Student Acting Vice President
Los Angeles De Crystal Student Assistant Media Manager : Ms. Maria Guzman
My name is Maria Guzman I am a currently a high school student residing in Chicago. I have cerebral palsy and although it affects my legs it doesn't affect my intellect. i don't let that stopped me from wanting to help and listen to others and determine how I live my life always being strong. I believe in staying positive, staying strong minded and believing that the impossible is always possible. I joined LADC because I want to help create a positive difference in my community, my family and the world. I want to share my story in hopes to inspire others to pursue there dreams. I am so proud to be a Latina and to be a part of this great group. Follow your dreams! Maria Guzman |