A journey of returning to self, education, and purpose – Meet Michelle Chavez

What inspired you to join Remarkably Us?

The mission already had my whole heart. Saying yes was easy. As a Latina who spent most of my childhood and teen years in kinship care, I know firsthand how deeply this work matters. Before joining Remarkably Us, I spent years in social work and foster care advocacy, and mentoring Latina foster youth because I wanted to be what I needed at that age.

For me, it is personal, grounded in both lived experience and a higher purpose. I believe culturally responsive programs are built on the idea that we have been there, we understand, and we are here to show you another way. That is exactly what this mission represents.

What is your role at Remarkably Us?

I am a Founding Board Member and represent Remarkably Us in Kern County, where I grew up and where I know firsthand how many Latina youth are still navigating systems we once faced.

Most recently, I led the Bloom Beyond Barriers event at Bakersfield College, an experience I poured my heart into. I look forward to continuing this work and supporting our next Central Valley event, likely taking place in 2026.

A little about me

I am a wife and a boy mom of two, a teen and a toddler. I grew up in McFarland, California, but I now spend most of my time in Bakersfield balancing school at California State University, Bakersfield, along with errands, volunteering, church, and family life.

The biggest update in this season of my life is that I am completing my bachelor’s degree and have also been accepted into the Master of Social Work program for this fall. I was recently selected by my department faculty as the Most Outstanding Student in my major, which feels especially meaningful given my journey. I have been on the Dean’s List each semester since returning to school as a nontraditional student just two years ago, and I will be graduating with honors.

Another meaningful part of my journey right now is my role on staff at CSUB through the Guardian Scholars Program, where I serve as a peer mentor and wellness coach. In this role, I walk alongside former foster youth on campus as they navigate higher education and life.

In recent months, I was also humbly recognized within the Hispanic community as a Tu Voz, Tu Héroe Awards honoree for my work and contributions to the foster care community.

Outside of my work and studies, I enjoy enchiladas, R&B music, dancing, spa days, iced coffee, brunch, and deep conversations about cultural history, faith, and identity. I care deeply, show up when it matters, and find joy in anything with a good view.

Advice to current Latina foster youth

You have an edge that can be used for so much good. Keep going. One day, it will all make sense. None of it was for nothing.

Where I am headed next

I am currently looking forward to beginning my Master of Social Work program this fall and continuing to grow both academically and professionally in ways that allow me to better serve my community.

I am also manifesting a special trip to the motherland soon—Mexico, whether that is Cabo, Cancún, or Puerto Vallarta.

Fun fact

I became a homeowner at 23, a milestone I have remained proud of for over a decade. I also enjoy working out, yoga, staying active, and hiking, even though I am a little afraid of heights.

Why I went back to school

In my twenties, I focused on career and survival as a single mom. College felt out of reach, or like something I did not necessarily need since I was already working in the field. But deep down, I knew it was unfinished business.

At the end of 2023, I finally said yes to myself.

Since then, I have made the Dean’s List each semester, earned scholarships, and am now completing my degree in Sociology and Communications. I was also recognized for my research proposal and invited to present it:
“How do cultural identity and foster care experiences influence the college aspirations, academic persistence, and success of Latina foster youth in the California State University system?”

I am not just going back for a degree. I am going back to change the statistics and be living proof that foster youth can rise, lead, and bloom.