We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Georgina Avilez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Georgina below.
Georgina, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
Very simple – My work ethic is a direct reflection of Aurora and George Avilez – My parents. Since I was a little girl, a strong work ethic has always been ingrained in both my sister and I. Creative projects, sports, school clubs, volunteering, public service, event planning and my imagination occupied my time. There is a part of me that always wished my parents nurtured my creative side exploring additional layers of my love for art. It’s their work ethic and attitude of making things happen have contributed to my success.
At the age of 6, my mom began working in the fields in Zacatecas, Mexico alongside my grandpa, also known as Apa. Mom would plant corn seeds after he dug each hole in a straight line. Continuing to work and taking naps in the fields, she grew proud of her work as each seed came to life. Her green thumb would become her signature trademark and gardening her connection to nature’s rich soils. Through the years, both my Apa and Ama (grandma) implored her to continue to work in the fields along with cleaning homes. At the age of 17, her entire family migrated to Los Angeles. As Mom adapted to a new way of life in Southern California, it was her resilience she continued to work landing a coveted role at an electronic company being trained by NASA engineers.
When my dad was just 12 years old, he developed a love for the road that led him to start parking cars in Tijuana, Mexico. At the time, my grandma Cuca was a single mother with seven children, and each of them contributed their portion to make ends meet. My dad would take on odd jobs at any time of the day to help my grandma Cuca and his siblings. There was always a love for music. He joined a band playing drums in his teens. At 19, dad arrived in Los Angeles and quickly obtained his California Driver’s License with the road soon calling his name. He became a driver for GlenCo Corp which quickly became Sysco Foods – the world’s global foodservice leader. He worked all hours of the day and night becoming the number one driver in California.
I’ve always admired the hard work of both my parents. I especially found it inspirational how they truly took pride in everything they touched. There were days I witnessed firsthand the work they loved when I had the opportunity to join them. I even worked at my sister Candy’s office at the age of 13. At 16, she helped secure a position at a jewelry store. At 21, I pursued a career in the entertainment industry working with high-profile artists for a meager salary and no health insurance. I didn’t mind. What I made was insignificant. I was willing to work long hours and travel extensively. My persistence and reputation paid off when I became an account executive at a public relations firm working with high-profile brands. Years later, I advanced as a marking and showroom director for a designer of high-end accessories, luxury goods, and fine jewelry featured on network television shows, red-carpet events, and TV shopping worldwide.
After working in various positions in the industry, I became weary of it. I felt a pull towards the non-profit sector, but I initially resisted it. However, when I finally made the switch, it gave me a new sense of purpose. I worked my way up through different roles and, after 12 years, I became the Program Director for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in Southern California.
I tend to work non-stop, especially when faced with new creative challenges or when someone is in need. My loved ones urge me to take a break, whether for a night, a day, or a week. I remember watching my parents leave for work at 5 am as a young girl. They never took any sick time. When I asked them why, they said, “We just pushed through it.” But pushing through it had a cost for their daily life later – that’s another story with some fun humorous twists.
Accountability is key to achieving a work-life balance. I have struggled with perfectionism and high expectations for myself over the years. I learned to evaluate my personal and professional commitments making a realistic plan to fulfill them. I also learned to understand my plan and my purpose. Most importantly – be intentional. This means taking care of myself by sleeping well, eating healthily, and exercising regularly. For me, the simple way is to do what needs to be done and honor my responsibilities. This has strengthened my trust in my personal and professional relationships.
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?
Ever since I was a young girl, I have loved the arts. My imagination also inspired me to serve others. In school, my classmates would snicker at my dreams of working in the entertainment business, but those who believed in my voice saw my potential. One day, while strolling through a music store, I spotted a magazine that intrigued me. It was Latin Style Magazine, a glossy publication that featured Latino arts and entertainment. With the encouragement of my first love – Mr. Wonderful, I decided to call the magazine and ask for a job. To my surprise, I was hired as the new assistant to the managing editor within 24 hours, earning a modest salary. I was eager to learn everything I could about the industry, from music to motion pictures to graphics to storytelling. It was my mission to explore this new world and understand its various aspects.
Since that stroll in the music store, my passion is to make a positive difference in people’s lives and help them grow. For almost 25 years, I have worked in the entertainment business, consumer communications, and community outreach. This has given me a deep insight into Latino and General Market brands, leading grassroots campaigns with a focus on community relations and managing high-profile events, programs, and media engagement.
Up Next: Mothers Against Drunk Driving, “A Letter to Mr. Wonderful,” and “Smiling for Santa.”
My vision expanded beyond the entertainment industry, where I had worked for 13 years. For a moment, I felt as if I let down the little girl who dreamed of the arts. I soon discovered that my vision had evolved into something bigger. At Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), I used my own story and experiences to help others find self-love and positivity. After getting praise for a personal essay about my tragedy and recovery, I started writing my first novel, “A Letter to Mr. Wonderful.” My work and personal history focus on community wellness and education. I want to inspire and support voices that turn pain into purpose. My wisdom stems from a painful loss that transformed my life. Serving the community healed me and gave me a new purpose. I find joy in doing what I love.
In 2023, while working on “A Letter to Mr. Wonderful”, I faced a new challenge with my family – Dad was diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. His diagnosis explained his inconsistent behavior, but it also devasted us. Tears continue to pool in my eyes knowing I have taken over the driver’s seat that he loves so much. After experiencing many emotions, I decided to honor my family by writing my first children’s book, “Smiling for Santa” – a magical realism story on how I conquered my fears and found courage through my imagination as a little girl during the holidays. “Smiling for Santa” will also celebrate the creativity of my inner child. I want to give my dad #OneMore lasting memory that he can treasure before he forgets.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I am optimistic and committed to everything I do, creative in my approach, and integrity in my actions. Above all, I embrace change for growth. It has enabled me to discover new ideas, unleash my creativity, and evolve over the years.
As I continue to grow, I have learned the importance of surrounding myself with like-minded people who inspire me daily and support my vision even if it includes goats. They know it brings me joy. I feel reassured knowing that the ones I value and respect are also my champions when I am not around.
If you are beginning your journey, my best advice is to be open-minded and honest. Express your thoughts and feelings in a respectful, constructive, and kind way. Listen attentively and empathetically to others. Try to understand their perspectives and learn from them. Take risks and embrace failures as opportunities for growth. Accept your strengths and weaknesses and work on improving them. Be proactive and consistent in following protocols and standards. Ask for help when you need it and seek feedback to improve your performance. Admit your mistakes and apologize when necessary. Challenge yourself with tasks that scare you and push you out of your comfort zone. Embrace growth and change as part of your journey. Be balanced and healthy in your personal and professional life. Practice self-care and prioritize your well-being. Be professional and courteous in all your interactions. These are crucial skills that will help you build trust and rapport with others.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Joining MADD was a life-changing experience for me. More importantly, it introduced me to someone who would forever change my life: my State Executive Director, Pat Rillera. I wish I had met her sooner in my career; however, this was the path I was meant to travel. Former supervisors did not invest in my development. I lacked professional growth. Pat recognized my potential and even helped me conquer my fears of public speaking. I became confident as my shyness deteriorated. She inspired me to unleash my creativity, pursue my goals and dreams with grace and passion. I would not be here today without Pat’s generosity and trust.
Contact Info:
- Website: georginaavilez.com
- Instagram: IAmGeorginaAvilez
- Facebook: georginaavilez
- Linkedin: georginaavilez
- Twitter: georginaavilez
Image Credits
Georgina Avilez
