“Never underestimate the power of your lived experience. Your voice, perspective, and leadership are necessary in every space, whether in government, business, or grassroots organizing. Step into the room confidently, even if you’re the only one who looks like you. Always remember that your community is your strength.”
Meet Elvis Rivera, a first-generation immigrant from Guatemala who is defined by his commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. When he first immigrated to Minnesota with his mother and sister, Elvis recalled the struggles he and his family faced. From poverty to homelessness, Elvis experienced firsthand the seemingly insurmountable struggles that new immigrants often face in this country.Â
Nonetheless, he credits these experiences as the proving ground for his strength.Â
“I had to figure out how to navigate being an immigrant in spaces that weren’t built for people like me,” he shared. “That only fueled my passion to speak up, get involved, and work toward real change. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s given me a purpose—to break barriers, create opportunities, in the hopes of contributing to a reality where future generations don’t have to struggle the way we did.”
In 2024, Elvis joined our Ready to Win training, where he learned the power of owning his story. He said, “The program provided me with the tools, confidence, and network to elevate my leadership and take actionable steps toward policy and community impact. It also emphasized that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about showing up, making space for others, and advocating for systemic change.”
To view Elvis’ full collage, you can visit our Instagram post.