Casual Question turned to city leadership

If you know me, you know I love to talk. I ask questions. I linger. I talk some more.

Almost two years ago, in one of my talking sprees, I asked Miriam, “Anything exciting going on this week?” Eager to share, she mentioned she was meeting with a resident who might apply to the City’s Parks & Rec Commission. Without missing a beat, she looked at me and said, “You should apply too.” That small invitation turned into something much bigger.

A few weeks later, I was sitting next to Miriam at City Hall as the Council recommended me for appointment. On April 1st, 2023, I was sworn in for my first term on the Commission. It felt surreal to be stepping into city leadership, something I hadn’t planned, but suddenly felt connected to. This past Tuesday, I was officially re-appointed for a second term. And soon, I’ll be serving as Chair.

But I keep going back to that first moment, not the vote, not the swearing in. Just the hallway chat. The offhand question. The way Miriam saw an opening and pulled me through it. 

This is how it often happens. Not with a grand plan. Not with a title in mind. Just a moment. A conversation. A small opening that someone takes the time to hold open a little longer, long enough for you to walk through.

At Unidos we show up, we talk, we invite. And somehow, it turns into leadership. Into belonging. Into the kind of power that grows slowly, quietly, and together.

Ester Ocampo

Events and Volunteer Coordinator