Meet Camilo Villa

We recently connected with Camilo Villa and have shared our conversation below.

Camilo , thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?

My optimism comes from working as a teacher with young kids, training equity-minded educators, and being part of a visionary community of artists. Teaching children opens a door to seeing the world with fresh eyes—through their curiosity, wonder, and unfiltered joy. They remind me that even the simplest moments can be deeply meaningful. Their laughter and creativity inspire me to embrace playfulness, approach challenges with their adventurous spirit, and quite literally dance through life with joy and freedom. They teach me hope and resilience, even in challenging times.

Being in community with other artists deepens this sense of optimism. Despite the socio-political landscape we live in, artists always find ways to make their voices heard. We are, in many ways, the visionaries of a kinder, more accepting, and united society. Through our work, we offer not only critique but also hope, imagination, and a possibility for what could be and what already is within our smaller social circles. This shared commitment to expression and transformation reminds me that creativity is an act of resistance and connection. Together, both the children I teach and the artists that surround me fuel my belief in the power of humanity to grow, heal, and build something better.

My optimism is also deeply rooted in my work as the Educational Director for the Rainbow Collective for Change and training educators to be LGBTQIA+ inclusive in both English and Spanish speaking communities. This work reminds me that there are dedicated educational leaders across communities doing the hard work to ensure that every single student in their classrooms feels a profound sense of belonging. These educators are committed to creating spaces where all identities are seen, valued, and celebrated, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusivity. Their courage to challenge systems of inequity and embrace equity-driven practices inspires me to continue advocating for a world where every child feels safe and empowered to be their authentic self. Their dedication reinforces my belief that education, when rooted in justice and compassion, is a powerful force for change.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’ve been a visual artist for my entire life, but like many artists, I’ve formed other fulfilling and purposeful career paths that have allowed me to continue making art on the side. I am also an elementary school Spanish teacher at the San Francisco Friends School, a lecturer at San Francisco State University, and the Director of Educational Programs at Rainbow Collective for Change. My most recent work as an artist focuses on questioning the violence and socio-political conflicts caused by geographical borders. These divisions create barriers that separate people, communities, and cultures, but my art seeks to challenge these limitations. In my paintings, I explore the ways in which the subjects interact, challenge, and embrace one another or themselves beyond these borders. Most often, I depict these connections through music and dance—art forms that transcend boundaries and remind us of the shared humanity that exists in each of us no matter where we come from.

Through this lens, my art invites viewers to reimagine a world where cultural exchange and connection are celebrated instead of constrained. Music and dance don’t recognize borders; they are universal languages that bring people together. This sense of unity and liberation drives much of my creative work, inspiring hope for a more harmonious world. You can see more of my art work in my website: www.camilovillastudio.com

In addition to my artistic practice, my roles as an educator are deeply aligned with this vision. At the San Francisco Friends School, I work to nurture a love for learning, curiosity, and empathy in young children. At San Francisco State University, I have the privilege of teaching future educators and helping them critically engage with issues of equity and justice in education. Through the Rainbow Collective for Change, I direct educational programs that empower educators to create inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ students, training them in both English and Spanish to foster belonging for all students.

Currently, through Rainbow Collective For change, we are expanding our efforts to provide workshops for educators and community leaders across the country, focusing on gender-inclusive teaching practices and cross-cultural understanding. Please visit our website to learn more: www.rainbowcollectiveforchange.org.

Whether through my art or my educational work, my goal is to contribute to a world where every individual feels seen, valued, and connected—across borders, identities, and differences.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are adaptability, active listening, and the courage to follow my heart.

Adaptability has been crucial because the path I initially thought I wanted didn’t turn out to be the one that made me happiest. Life has a way of surprising you, and the journey you’re convinced is the “right” one might shift in unexpected ways. Staying open to change allowed me to discover new passions and pursue work that not only makes an impact but also nourishes my soul. My advice for those early in their journey is to stay curious and flexible. Try new things, reflect on what truly brings you joy, and take a leap of faith when your heart tells you there’s a better fit out there.

Active listening has been equally important, not just in my interactions with others but in how I listen to myself. Sometimes, your gut knows where you’re meant to go before your mind does. Listening also applies to how we engage with the people around us—friends, mentors, colleagues, and the communities we want to serve. Even when you don’t fully understand or agree, listening deeply allows you to learn, connect, and grow. Practice humility and empathy, paying attention not just to words but to the emotions and intentions behind them. This helps build meaningful relationships that enrich your work and your personal life.

Finally, following my heart has been a cornerstone of my journey. Tuning into what excites and fulfills you is the best guide you’ll ever have. Impactful work that aligns with your passions doesn’t just make the world better—it sustains your sense of purpose. Reflect on what drives you, what you care deeply about, and where you can make a difference. Be brave enough to let go of paths that no longer serve you and bold enough to carve out new ones that align with who you truly are.

Each of these qualities—adaptability, listening, and following your heart—will help you navigate your own journey. Along the way, approach every step with grace and compassion. Every obstacle and challenge plays a role in building your resilience, teaching lessons that success alone cannot. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, see them as stepping stones that shape your character and deepen your understanding of the world. Celebrate your progress, trust the process, and know that every experience—fulfilling or daunting—contributes to the unique and impactful path you’re creating.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I would love to collaborate with authors writing children’s books, particularly so I can illustrate stories that empower LGBTQ children and youth within Latin American culture to embrace and celebrate their authentic selves. There is a significant need for children’s literature in Spanish that reaffirms the experiences of LGBTQ youth, offering them representation and stories where they see themselves reflected with pride and joy. Through vibrant, culturally rich illustrations, I would like to bring these narratives to life, creating books that foster belonging, self-love, and hope for young readers in our communities.

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