Open Your Heart and Fly: My 2026 Superhero Season

I’m going to say this the way I live it: I never imagined I would be where I am right now.Not in this season. Not with this much responsibility. Not with this much purpose stacked on top of purpose.

But here we are.

I’m managing my caretaker role, traveling back and forth, handling government paperwork in El Salvador hands-on, keeping my business running, and still showing up for the mission—because the mission is bigger than convenience.

And if I’ve learned anything… it’s this:

Dig deep. You are the only one who can build the future you need—not the one everyone else expects you to live.

Mission #1: The Language Access “Translator Superhero Squad” Talk (Next Week)

Next week, we’re hosting our Language Access Translator Superhero Squad conversation—because I’m building a squad of professionals who don’t second-guess their ability.

This isn’t about “finding bodies.” This is about finding quality humans who:

• care about the work,

• respect timelines,

• name their price,

• and want to grow while serving clients with excellence.

It’s flexible contract work, but it’s still real work—with real deadlines and real standards.And I’m proud to say: payments are handled electronically, and once our client confirms delivery and the invoice is submitted, payments are typically processed within 10 business days.

No hidden agenda. Just building something solid.

Mission #2: CHIA Conference in March — Hospice Changed Me

In March, I’ll be speaking at the annual CHIA conference, sharing what I’ve learned, seen, and felt in the “mighty world” of hospice.

Hospice doesn’t just teach you about care.It teaches you about humanity.

It teaches you what language access really means when:

• people are scared,

• families are emotional,

• time matters,

• and compassion isn’t optional.

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I’ve been changed by this work. And I’m going to tell the truth about it—because the people who do this work deserve respect, tools, and systems that actually support them.

Mission #3: Greenville, Mississippi — Live Training on ChatGPT + Canva

Somehow (and I say that with a smile), I’m also locked in to speak and provide live training on ChatGPT and Canva at the Greenville, Mississippi yearly Rotary event.

I love this because it’s practical.I’m all about training that helps people leave with results—same day.

No fluff. Just tools, confidence, and a plan.

Mission #4: NIH Advisory Board — Interpreter Use in Primary Care

I’ve also been invited to serve on an Advisory Board for an NIH R01 Study on interpreter use in primary care.

Let me tell you why I said yes:

Because interpreter integration is not a “nice-to-have.”It’s a patient safety issue, a compliance issue, and a human dignity issue.

I’m honored to bring my perspective to research that can improve systems—not just conversations.

Mission #5: Texas — Our First Apprentice

We also onboarded our first apprentice in Texas.

This matters to me because apprenticeship isn’t just workforce development.It’s a door.

It’s structure + training + support + a real pathway—especially for people who are ready to change their life but need the bridge.

Mission #6: El Salvador — Dual Citizenship + Business Expansion

And yes… I’m officially Salvadoran now (my dad loves telling everybody 😄).Dual citizenship has been a major personal milestone—but it’s also connected to business purpose. I’ve learned the government paperwork process here firsthand, and I’m moving forward with registering my business in San Salvador, because I’m needed here.

Language access, workforce empowerment, and real services that protect people—those aren’t “U.S.-only” needs. The need is global.

Mission #7: Lafayette Boutique & Events — First Client Logo in El Salvador

We also created a logo for free for our first El Salvador client:Lafayette Boutique & Events in Ahuachapán—custom dresses, customized events, the whole vibe.

Why did I do it?

Because I believe in planting seeds.And when you’re building community across borders, you don’t always start with an invoice. Sometimes you start with belief.

The truth?

I’m tired sometimes. I’m human.

But I’m also grateful—because I love what I do. And I’m living proof that when you keep it honest, keep it moving, and keep your heart open… things can expand in ways you couldn’t have planned.

So if you’re reading this and you feel like life is pulling you in ten directions, I want you to hear me:

Open your heart and fly. Dream big, but stay real.Work hard, but stay human.And remember—your future is yours to build.

Want to connect with one of these missions?

• Interested in joining the Translator Superhero Squad? RSVP for next week’s conversation.

• Want me to speak/train your organization on ChatGPT, Canva, language access, or apprenticeships? Let’s talk.

• Want to collaborate in El Salvador or the U.S. on workforce + language access solutions? I’m building.

  
  

We’re not just working. We’re building doors.

Your Chica - Iliana