Embracing New Horizons: Yésika's Story

Yésika was born and raised in La Habana, Cuba. Her dream was to teach art, but the political landscape of Cuba did not align with her aspirations. Her passion for the arts led her to the University of Habana, where she delved into the worlds of philosophy and the humanities. Undeterred, she found that neutral ground within the university where she honed her artistic skills for four years.

Yésika embraced the chance to explore new horizons when she received a scholarship to pursue film studies in Madrid, Spain. Upon her return to Cuba, she discovered that she had transformed so profoundly during her time abroad that she no longer felt at home in her homeland.

Determined to carve a path in the art world, Yésika taught and worked odd jobs to afford a professional camera and set off on a journey of self-discovery. Her lens captured the world’s beauty, and she expanded her photography skills.

In early 2020, Yésika found herself at San Francisco International Airport during a layover when news of a new virus began circling in the mainstream media. Stranded far from home, she faced uncertainty and challenges. Luckily, a friend took her in while she figured out next steps and could book another flight. However, life took another unexpected turn with the COVID-19 pandemic and its lockdowns.

Forced to shelter in place, Yésika, surrounded by a different culture and language, figured that if she was going to be stuck in San Mateo for the foreseeable future, she might as well view it as a new chapter in her life. So, she embraced the challenge of learning English as a Second Language at Skyline College.

Yésika’s dedication to her education and pursuit of her dreams led her to Upward Scholars, which provided financial, academic, career, and emotional support. Today, Yésika has set down roots in Pacifica and works as a freelance photographer and in the marketing department at Skyline College, using her talents to support her education. She is studying Early Childhood Education in our TeacherUp program and dreams of becoming a Spanish or art teacher at a local elementary school.