Our Story
After moving to Santa Cruz in May of 2019, founder of Mi Gente CA, Isabel Contreras noticed one essential thing missing from the area: culture. Being an artist of color herself, Isabel has always advocated for cultural representation in creative spaces in her artistic career since 2014. Because of the lack of cultural art events, Isabel decided to organize her first arts festival for Día de Muertos on Oct 31, 2021! Little did she know, this event was more important than she could have ever imagined...
In connecting with so many underrepresented artists from surrounding areas at the event, Isabel heard their stories about the lack of space and advocacy for them in Santa Cruz and knew she had to continue with the work she had [unknowingly] started. After much debate of whether she was prepared for this work, Isabel realized this movement was so much bigger than her own experience; this was a call to continue amplifying the stories of all artists to feel seen and represented in this community.
Finally jumping on the opportunity the Universe had presented her, Isabel officially created Mi Gente CA on Jan 11, 2022, which was also her 24th birthday. She organized her inaugural event, "Block Party" on July 3rd, 2022 in collaboration with Barrios Unidos, which held space for over 50 vendors! Since then Isabel has gone on to organize a number of cultural festivals, dance evenings, and networking socials. Her work has been valued and recognized in the community so much, that she received a Mayoral Proclamation for Hispanic Heritage month on September 12, 2022, just a couple months after her first Mi Gente event.
Isabel continues to curate unique events that make everyone feel valued so they can continue to showcase the light that shines within them.
our team
ISABEL CONTRERAS
founder, executive director
Isabel is a multifaceted, mixed Indigenous artist who received her BFA in Communication Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University, and has since held positions as a Graphic Designer, Illustrator, and Marketing Manager. She has been recognized for her philanthropic work in Santa Cruz County and was named Community Builder of the Year and Activist/Changemaker, joined the City Arts Commission and received a Mayoral Proclamation for her work during Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month; all in her first year (2022-2023) as an art-ivist and organizer.
Whether it's a new art piece or community project, Isabel's main focus is to prioritize culture, representation, and inclusivity in her work. She enjoys creating work that people can identify with and aims to build spaces that increase community access and support for the arts, while giving back to her community. Her personal artwork can be found at esachabe.com or @_esachabe on Instagram.
Esmeralda Fregoso
board of directors, secretary
Esmeralda "Esme" (she,her, ella) is a proud Latina creative, born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, with a passion for fostering inclusivity and authenticity. Graduating from San Jose State University with a Bachelor's in Hospitality Management, with an emphasis in event management, she brings a unique blend of skills and vision to her work.
As the founder of Fregoso Creative, Esme is dedicated to creating safe spaces through photography and videography where individuals can embrace their true selves. Her mission is to highlight the beauty found within our differences, ensuring that every person, regardless of background, feels valued and understood.
Esme also serves as the inaugural Communications & Membership Coordinator for the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley, a non-profit dedicated to strengthening Latina power for collective success through sisterhood, leadership, and civic engagement.
Esme's commitment to community and creativity is evident in all her endeavors. She believes in the importance of creating spaces where people can show up authentically, recognizing the magic and power in embracing one's true self and inviting others to do the same.