Meet Yolanda!

 

Born in Las Vegas, NM, she moved around a lot while she was young. Her family settled in Gallup, NM, but then moved back to Las Vegas, NM, when she started high school. She now lives in the rural community of Cañoncito de Mañuelitas, near Sapello, NM.

 

She has volunteered and worked in many various non-profit and government agencies throughout her career. Along the way she faced many personal and professional challenges which made her ask tough questions. Eventually those questions led her to find an inner strength she didn't know was there. 

 

The Calf Canyon/Hermit's Peak fire of 2022 burned much of her property, fortunately sparing her home. While dealing with her own loss, she volunteered to help survivors find the resources they needed. In her portrait I captured her strength of conviction, love of community, and her sly sense of humor.