Daniel (He/They) was born and raised in Zamora, Michoacán, Mexico. They immigrated to the United States at the age of 11 with their parents and two brothers in pursuit of a better education and life, leaving behind family and friends. At the time, they did not speak a single word of English. The family settled in Delhi (Yokut Territory) in Stanislaus County, which became their new home.
Daniel graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a B.A. in Data Science. They found fulfillment in Data Science due to its blend of practical applications and theoretical foundations, as well as its versatility across various fields since data is everywhere. Daniel is passionate about using their data science expertise to inform and support policies that uplift the most marginalized communities.
Daniel oversees the Healing Generation Center, a youth wellness center located in Merced. The center’s mission is to offer alternative pathways to wellness beyond traditional clinical approaches. It provides a variety of programs, including art classes, LGBTQ+ peer support, cultural enrichment, food insecurity support, and Indigenous practices and education. Each week, the center welcomes approximately 50 youth participants.
In addition, Daniel manages We’Ced Youth Media, a journalism hub comprised of a 15-member youth cohort. This program focuses on addressing youth issues through a health equity lens by utilizing media as a platform for storytelling and advocacy. He also leads You Are Sacred, a youth suicide prevention program that is part of the statewide media campaign, Never a Bother. This initiative is dedicated to reducing suicide ideation, attempts, and deaths among California youth aged 12-25.
Lastly, Daniel oversees the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) program, which aims to support LGBTQ+ youth in Merced County through targeted services and initiatives.
Daniel’s passions are mental/physical health, the environment, politics, religion, math, justice, technology and learning about the human experience.