We were lucky to catch up with Elizabeth Alvarado recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elizabeth , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Finding my purpose came in an unexpected way. In the autumn of 2023, my brother fell critically ill. I rushed him to the emergency room, where he was admitted after several hours of testing. As the days passed, I learned that he had sepsis and the infection had reached his heart. A week later, he underwent heart surgery to replace three heart valves. Unfortunately, the infection was so severe that his chest had to remain open. Two more surgical procedures were necessary to clean the infection in his heart. Finally, on the third surgery, the surgeon was able to close his chest.
During this challenging time, I became my brother’s primary caregiver. For nine months, I diligently changed his wound dressings, enduring the physical and emotional toll. To prioritize my well-being, I revisited a childhood dream of participating in a pageant. This decision marked a turning point in my life.
Pageantry has not only helped me define my goals and identity, but has also allowed me to give back to the community. I’ve found fulfillment in volunteering with Broadway West (www.bwaywest.org ), a non-profit dedicated to revitalizing theaters in Los Angeles.
Inspired by my experiences with my brother, I became an advocate for the Sepsis Alliance (www.sepsis.org). Sharing my story and raising awareness about sepsis has been a healing process. Additionally, I’ve connected with the Alzheimer’s Association ( www.alz.org/socal ), a cause close to my heart due to family members who have been affected by the disease.
I’ve realized that having a purpose is essential to a fulfilling life. While pageantry has brought me joy and opportunities, my commitment to non-profit organizations will continue long after my pageant career ends.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As Ms. Universal Petite Mexico, I’m dedicated to serving my community. I work with the Cityride program in Los Angeles, providing essential transportation services to the elderly and disabled. This allows them to easily access crucial appointments and errands.
The gratitude of my clients fuels my passion for helping others. I guide them through the program, explaining its benefits and usage. This experience has inspired me to live a more purposeful life.
Pageantry has been a transformative journey. Inspired by my brother’s battle with sepsis, I’ve become an advocate for Sepsis Alliance, raising awareness about this life-threatening condition.
I also volunteer with Broadway West, and I’m excited for their upcoming Sparkling Soiree fundraiser on December 8th, featuring a performance by Lexi Lawson from The Broadway musical Hamilton.
In January 2025, I’ll be speaking at a District Office Meeting with Representative Ted Lieu on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association. This cause is deeply personal to me, as my grandmother and aunt suffered from Alzheimer’s and dementia.
In June 2025, I’ll compete for the title of Ms. Universal Petite in Tampa, Florida.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Curiosity has been the driving force behind my journey. It’s the spark that ignites passion and propels me towards new experiences. By embracing the unfamiliar and challenging the status quo, I’ve expanded my horizons and discovered hidden talents.
While curiosity fuels my aspirations, organization provides the structure to achieve them. I’ve found that tools like vision boards and calendars are invaluable in setting goals and tracking progress. As a visual learner, a vision board helps me visualize my dreams, while a calendar keeps me accountable to deadlines and commitments.
Effective communication is essential for building relationships and conveying ideas. To communicate confidently, I’ve learned the importance of self-awareness. Understanding my values and passions enables me to articulate my thoughts clearly and persuasively. Volunteering at Broadway West’s LA Night Lights event provided a valuable opportunity to practice my communication skills. By engaging with attendees and sharing the organization’s mission, I gained confidence in public speaking and interpersonal interaction.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
The past 12 months have been a period of significant growth for me, particularly in the area of resilience. I’ve learned that while we cannot control life’s circumstances, we can control our emotions and outlook. This realization has been a powerful tool, allowing me to persevere through challenges and maintain a positive perspective.
When I faced the near-loss of my brother, I chose not to view life as short or cruel. Instead, I embraced its beauty and the importance of gratitude for each day and the opportunities it presents. I believe that to live the life of our dreams, we must cultivate a sense of beauty within ourselves each day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theelizabethalvara.wixsite.com/my-site
- Instagram: @theelizabethalvarado
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/theelizabethalvarado
- Other: https://dot.cards/theelizabethalvarado
Image Credits
Cristen Geller.
Matty Jacobsen.
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