From Aircraft Mechanic to Health Equity Champion

In a recent The Healthy Project Podcast episode, I had an awesome conversation with Maria Torres, the Health Equity Coordinator for Pottawatomie County Public Health. I first met Maria during an Iowa Public Health Association Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) committee meeting and you could tell she had a genuine passion for people.  Maria’s unique journey from an aspiring aircraft mechanic to a passionate public health advocate offers valuable insights into the thoughtful impact of personal experiences on professional paths, particularly in the health equity space.

From Aviation to Health Advocacy

Maria begins by recounting her initial career aspirations in aviation, a field far removed from public health. Her shift to health advocacy was not planned; it was propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting her community's needs and her passion for service. This transition underscores the unexpected ways life can steer us toward our true calling.

The Heart of Health Equity

At the core of Maria’s work is a deep commitment to health equity—a commitment born from her experiences as an immigrant and the challenges she faced in accessing health care and support. She discusses the essential nature of inclusivity in health information, emphasizing the need for materials and communication that cater to diverse communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of language or background, has access to necessary health resources.

The Power of Belonging

One of the most poignant parts of the conversation revolves around belonging. Maria shares how her struggles with identity and belonging have shaped her approach to public health. She believes that creating a sense of belonging within communities can significantly enhance public health outcomes, as it fosters an environment where individuals are more likely to engage and participate in health-related initiatives.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Maria expresses a vibrant vision for the future of public health. She envisions a system rebuilt with the metaphorical gold of Japanese kintsugi, where breaks are not merely repaired but are made stronger and more beautiful. Her dream is for a community-centric approach where public health professionals and community members collaboratively address and solve health disparities.

Engage with the Full Conversation

To dive deeper into Maria’s inspiring story and impactful work in health equity, you can listen to the full episode of The Healthy Project Podcast on Apple Podcasts or watch it on YouTube.

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