A Community-Based Spanish Interpreter, Daniela has made it her mission to walk alongside Latinx migrants in Vermont as they navigate systems that were not built with them in mind. A tech-industry veteran with a background in operations and product management, Daniela unexpectedly found a new calling: helping others. It began when she helped a Guatemalan family get their driver’s licenses—and something clicked. She hasn’t looked back since.
Creating Trust, One Step at a Time
Driver’s licenses may seem small to some, but Daniela knows they’re often lifelines. They provide mobility, access to jobs and healthcare, and reduce the risk of deportation. Daniela has built a trusted process, guiding people through paperwork, documentation, and even road exams. What started as a favor has grown into a calling—nearly 100 people have sought her help in just a few months.
But Daniela sees the bigger picture. “This work doesn’t end with a license,” she says. “The more time I spend with the community, the more I see just how many basic needs are going unmet—housing, healthcare, mental health support, and more.” This fall, she’ll begin a master’s in counseling at UVM to deepen her ability to support those needs, driven by the belief that “our futures are tied together, and we are meant to care for each other.”
Grounded in Community
Daniela credits her resilience and growth to the three communities that hold her up: her personal circle of support, the Latinx community she serves, and the colleagues who show up for justice with time, money, and resources. “Their care gives me hope,” she says.
When setbacks hit, Daniela doesn’t shy away. “I pause, I feel it, and I find my way back,” she says. Her mantra? Every day is a chance to begin again.
Inspired by Purpose
What drives Daniela is a clear sense of alignment. “Even when it’s hard, I feel a quiet, steady sense of purpose. That’s how I know I’m on the right path.” She’s laying the foundation for a life of service—and Hula is proud to be a small part of that journey.
If you'd like to support Daniela’s work, you can do so here: https://gofund.me/0c85182c
Welcome, Daniela. We’re so glad you’re here. We’re proud that you bring purpose, passion, and a whole lot of heart into our community.
