Aliento Features: Xiomara Flores

Tell us about yourself.

Hi! My name is Xiomara Flores, and I am currently a senior at Mountain View High School. I was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona. I am the oldest of 6 and a first-generation student from a mixed-status family. I am very involved in my community through my church, school, and clubs that I participate in. I enjoy and am part of the performing art program playing cello in orchestra, enjoy traveling/road trips, and spending time with friends and family.

How did you find out about Aliento? Why did you get involved?

Hidalty Gonzalez was a fellow last year, and when I got involved with the Latino Club with them, we had the opportunity to attend E-Day with them. After that event, I decided to apply for the next fellow cohort to see what other work it is that they advocate and fight for. I was almost close to not going to E-Day and I am very glad I did because I am not sure if I would have ever gotten so involved and interested in the work that Aliento does had I not gone.

Why does the work we are doing matter to you?

Again coming from a mixed-status family, the work that we do matters because it hits on a personal level. And knowing that I am able to do at least a little bit to get the ball rolling and get changes made for them and future generations really motivates me to keep on fighting for them.

What moments from the fellowship are you most proud of?

I am very proud of how I was able to be a part of such an amazing group that gained leadership skills and saw growth in each other. I was able to grow in my leadership skills and was able to gain more knowledge of discriminatory history and what the steps are to change it. And we got to see one of those come to life through Prop 308 right before my eyes. I am also very proud of the group of people that I was able to bring to E-Day this year. The change in numbers from last year to this year was very amazing. I was very blessed to be the President of the Latino Club on campus and help them get their chance to be a part of this change as well.

How would you describe this fellowship to someone who is looking to apply?

I would describe this fellowship as life-changing and impactful. I would have never thought of putting myself in a position where I would be talking to people at the Capitol to support and advocate for change in the state. But once you do, to me, there is no going back because you realize the “power” and potential you could have to try and make a change for the better.

What’s next for you?

I will potentially go on a mission trip program in Texas for a couple of years in the fall and then come back and study at ASU for biomedical sciences with an emphasis on Pre-Med to be on track to become a Physician’s Assistant.