We recently connected with Ivan Estrella and have shared our conversation below.
Ivan, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I remember having a very difficult time in school. I was a student at UCLA, and I was actively loosing my vision and my ability to walk. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
I had to decide for myself, like the students around me, what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
I figured, if I lose my vision, if I lose my ability to walk, what do I have left…?
It’s my voice!
I would go on to use my voice, to make the world a better place.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In the intricate tapestry of my life, Mariachi music resonates as both the melody and heartbeat, intricately woven by the love of my family and the timeless tunes of Vicente Fernandez, a true Mariachi legend. My passion for Mariachi music became my sanctuary during my challenging days as a student at UCLA, marked by a life-threatening health crisis stemming from a rare autoimmune disease that threatened my vision and mobility. Amidst uncertainty, my voice emerged as a resilient force, fueling my determination to make a positive impact.
The triumph of winning an international singing contest hosted by Vicente Fernandez not only validated my journey but also sparked a mission to preserve his music, especially poignant in the wake of his recent passing. Collaborating with Live Nation and the House of Blues, I’ve shared the Vicente Fernandez Tribute with thousands, creating an immersive experience that transcends mere entertainment.
Beyond the stage lights, I embrace the role of a Mariachi singer not just as a cultural ambassador but also as an advocate for individuals living with disabilities, including myself. Mariachi, to me, is more than a genre; it’s a vibrant expression of identity. Fueled by Vicente’s legacy, my responsibility has expanded, and I am devoted to safeguarding and showcasing the rich tapestry of Mariachi.
My commitment extends further through active involvement in community service. Collaborating with local elementary schools and community based groups like Grupo Folklorico Sabor de Mexico, I contribute to the preservation of Mexican culture. This community hub provides performance opportunities for dancers and singers across generations. From captivating audiences at the Special Olympics to performing internationally, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of music uniting diverse communities.
Through struggles, triumphs, and an unwavering commitment to community service, my journey embodies resilience and the timeless beauty of culture. Join me in celebrating not just the notes in a song but the stories they tell and the communities they uplift.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Dream big, work hard, never give up. Dream big, work hard, never give up. Dream big, work hard, never give up.
This has become my mantra. One of the most valuable things I’ve learned in my life is to believe in myself. I visualized myself singing in front of thousands of fans. We were connected, singing as one… and my dream came true. The reason is simple, I dared to… Dream big, I work hard, and I never give up!!!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
You’re only as strong as your team. It takes a village.
The importance of collaboration and teaming up with others is essential for growth.
I’m actively seeking out new opportunities to collaborate with people interested in promoting the visibility of people living with disabilities like myself.
I’m also interested in teaming up with people looking to bring Mariachi music to new audiences.
If you’re reading this and are considering a possible collaboration, don’t hesitate to email me at [email protected]
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/ivanestrelladelosangeles
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/ivanestrelladelosangeles?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
- Youtube: Youtube.com/themariachiman
