Spending four days in the remote mountains of Almont, Colorado, teaching middle schoolers how to fish during the Taylor Challenge was an experience that deeply resonated with me. Not only did it allow me to share a skill, but it also gave me the opportunity to engage with young students in an outdoor setting, something I have always cherished. The awe-inspiring beauty of the Colorado mountains provided a breathtaking backdrop for this adventure, making every lesson and conversation even more meaningful.

In the photos, you can see the students eagerly learning to tie knots, patiently practicing their casting, and standing together in the vastness of the mountains—each one building confidence not just in their ability to fish but also in themselves. I remember feeling a sense of fulfillment as I watched them learn, knowing that this moment was more than just about catching fish. It was about building relationships with nature and each other, an experience that will stay with them for years to come.

This incredible opportunity would not have been possible without the support of the Hispanic Access Foundation. They have connected me with opportunities that continue to enhance my personal and professional growth. The networking they provide has allowed me to travel, explore new places, and expand my skill set while fostering connections with communities I might not otherwise have encountered.

I am incredibly grateful for this experience and the ways in which it contributes to my career development. The ability to travel to such places, to teach and inspire, is something I don’t take for granted. I feel blessed to be part of a community that values diversity and leadership development and pushes me to learn and grow in every aspect of my life.

As I move forward in my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned from the Taylor Challenge, the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado landscape, and the lasting connections I made. I look forward to many more such experiences, thanks to the support of organizations like the Hispanic Access Foundation.