We recently had the chance to connect with Karla Ortega and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Karla, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Honestly, my kids are my daily source of laughter and pride. They have such big personalities and a wonderful sense of humor, and they never fail to make me smile. But what makes me feel the most proud is their passion and dedication, both in school and in the arts.
Gabo is thriving in music and will be having his first piano recital at middle school next week, and Cayo just displayed her artwork at the Coastal Carolina Fair. Seeing them dive into what they love, excel, and express themselves creatively is incredibly inspiring.
Beyond their talents, I’m proud of their empathy. They genuinely care about the people around them, and that kindness shines through in everything they do. Watching them grow into thoughtful, creative, and compassionate humans is one of the greatest joys of my life.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Karla Ortega. I’m a Program Coordinator with the Student DREAMers Alliance (SDA), where I work with immigrant and first-generation students to help them find their voice, embrace their stories, and become leaders in their communities. What makes SDA so special is seeing these students transform — gaining confidence, pursuing their dreams, and realizing the impact they can have.
I’m also an artist, besides original art work on canvases I also turn glass (wine bottles and glassware) into colorful, one-of-a-kind pieces. My two children, Gabo and Cayo, inspire much of my creativity, they are artists themselves and bring joy and imagination into everything I do. Right now, I’m focused on expanding SDA’s programs to reach more students while bringing my art to local markets and cultural spaces. For me, whether through education or art, it’s all about connection and storytelling, helping people see the value, beauty, and strength in their own stories.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
The person who saw me most clearly before I could see myself has always been my husband, Patrick. He’s been my number one supporter, my biggest cheerleader, and the one who reminds me of my strengths even when I doubt myself. He believes in me in a way that makes me want to rise to the occasion every single time.
My kids, Gabo and Cayo, have also been incredible mirrors for me. Their excitement and belief calling me “the best mom, cook, artist, drawer, painter” remind me of my own abilities and creativity, often before I recognize them myself. Their love and enthusiasm have been a guiding light throughout my journey.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there was a time when I almost gave up. Wen I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that began to affect my mobility especially in my hands. As someone who expresses so much through art and creativity, it felt devastating. I remember thinking it was over for me, that I would lose the ability to do what I love and become a burden to my family.
But that moment also became a turning point. Patrick, my husband, and my kids refused to let me give up. Their love and faith in me reminded me that I was still capable, still valuable, even if I had to do things differently. Slowly, I found new ways to adapt, to paint, to work, to live with more grace and patience for myself.
That experience taught me that resilience isn’t about never breaking down; it’s about finding your way back, one small act of courage at a time.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The cultural value I protect above all else is family and connection. In my life and work, staying rooted in family, both the one we’re born into and the communities we build is everything. It’s about showing up for each other, celebrating each other’s achievements, and lifting each other through challenges.
Whether it’s at home with Patrick, Gabo, and Cayo, or through my work with the Student DREAMers Alliance, I see how powerful connection can be. Protecting that value means creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued, and reminding the next generation that family and community are the foundation of resilience, creativity, and empathy.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I think one of the biggest fears we all share about leaving this world is the idea of leaving without making an impact without leaving a footprint that shows we mattered. When I’m gone, I hope people tell the story of someone who led with empathy, who believed in others even when they couldn’t see their own strength, and who used creativity to bring people together.
I hope my kids remember me as the mom who encouraged them to dream big, stay kind, and express themselves freely and that my students and community remember me as someone who saw them, believed in them, and helped them believe in themselves.
If people can say that I made them feel valued, inspired, or a little more hopeful, then that’s the story I want told. That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karlas-custom-creations.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karla.custom.creations/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karla-ortega-buelvas-228988235/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karla.custom.creations
Image Credits
Picture of my portrait was taken from City of Greenville Instagram account
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
