That's one of the many principles my dad taught me. The encouragement to fully express my voice and who I am.  Hi, I’m Virginia. A Life Coach, and founder of In Her Element + The Millennial Mindset Panels, and a catalyst for transformation.

 

 I grew up in the Dominican Republic until I was about nine, I then moved to New York. Within New York City I moved several times as my parents figured out their marriage to each other. They ended up separating, and my mother, sister, and I moved to The Bronx.

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Yes, The Bronx was a rough neighborhood. And yes, I got bullied constantly because I was different. Although at first, I was timid, I wasn't afraid of speaking up when I saw something that didn't sit right with me. I had a thick Spanish accent and that allowed me to navigate through two totally different worlds. It also allowed me to fall in love with and emerge in the power of language.

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In high school, bullying took a huge toll on me emotionally and for most of those four years, my education and grades took a big hit. I didn't know how to cope with my ups and downs of depression. That translated into failing out of most classes and barely graduating with a diploma. 

 

The relationship with my mother was in shackles. I was so afraid of running away, so I did what I thought was the best next thing. I joined the military. 

 

I got based in Ft Campbell, KY and soon enough, I found out I was getting deployed for a little over a year in Afghanistan. That experience alone changed my life and I don't take it for granted.

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I met the most kind and caring locals. I experienced unity with a team of people who were my coworkers and in no time, they became family. It was one of the most fulfilling experiences that put many things in perspective for me. That experience taught me oneness with people and cultures that are so different than my own. It taught me humility and gratitude for my basic needs that are met on a daily-basis.

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Today I live, work + play in Austin, TX. 

 

As a new age leader and coach my purpose is really simple: to expand the consciousness of women. I find no easier way than to have real conversations with women who are ready and willing to do their inner work. I know what it is like to not fit in, live with anxiety and over-explain yourself to be liked.

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Opening up this space has been such a learning and growing experience. I wouldn’t be able to be here without facing my fears, adversity, and old beliefs that no longer served me. At the age of 22, I became an Army Veteran and was diagnosed with PTSD. I struggled and was on a depression rollercoaster. That same year, I found pieces of my purpose. I was introduced to a leadership course that changed my life forever.

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