Andrés was born in Venezuela and grew up in Minnesota. He lived in Miami for a year upon coming to the states, and then in Omaha for six years in his early twenties.

Andrés’ story of migration shapes who he is today. He observed his single mother be adaptable in the face of change and adversity, and he watched her work her butt off for her family. Through his mother, Andrés learned that we can have grit and express love at the same time.

We must work hard and diligently while maintaining a loving attitude towards the world.

‘Yuya’ is the nickname Andrés’ family refers to his mother as. Yuya, his mother, has been Andrés’ greatest source of inspiration, motivation, and support and has shown those around her that it is possible to be a Loving Warrior - a being who moves through the world with strength, resilience, and persistence while always showing love, care and affection to self and those around.

‘Yuya’ represents the Loving Warrior that lives within each of us.

‘Yuya’ calls on us to explore our inner selves, cultivate that Loving Warrior, and give it a huge hug so that that energy may be with us every step of the way on this journey we call ‘life’.