What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part of being a mom is watching my kids grow and knowing I’m shaping their future. Having my first child at 19 and raising them as a single mom while working full time and going to school hasn’t been easy, but every challenge is worth it. When my kids tell me they love me or accomplish something they worked hard on learning, it reminds me why I push through every obstacle.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

One memory I’ll never forget is when my daughter learned to ride her bike without training wheels. She was so scared, but I told her she can do it. When she finally took off on her own, she looked back at me with the biggest smile. My son yelling, saying, “Nayeli, you’re so cool!” I saw their bond and their confidence grow, and it reminded me why I push so hard for them every day.

What would you do with $20,000?

I’d put it toward a down payment on a house because my kids deserve stability and a home to call their own. As a single mom working full time and going to school, I want to give them the best life possible. I dream of a place where they have space to play and grow. This money would help make that dream a reality.