Javier Pineda’s journey from Michoacán, Mexico, to Summit County, Colorado, is a story of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to community. At 12, Javier and his family immigrated to the United States, reuniting with his father in Breckenridge, CO. While the mountains and the allure of snowboarding fascinated him, his early years in Colorado were marked by overcoming economic and social barriers rather than enjoying the outdoors. His passion for the sport grew despite financial challenges and feeling out of place in the predominantly white ski culture, a passion further fueled by his achievements as an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America.

After high school, where he served as student body president, Javier began studying Political Science at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. However, financial strain and his immigration status forced him to put his education and snowboarding on hold. He later returned to Summit County as a paralegal, reigniting his love for the mountains. A turning point came in 2019 when he hiked and snowboard the “J-Chute” on Mount Victoria, Frisco, CO, reaffirming his connection to the mountains and inspiring him to help others find the same sense of belonging.

EMCEE

Yanitsa is the Admissions Coordinator and Digital Marketing Manager for the High Mountain Institute's Gap program. Yanitsa grew up in Mont Belvieu, Texas– a small city outside of Houston. She graduated college from Texas A&M University in 2021 where she studied Political Science & U.S. Government, with a focus on Latinx Immigration. After graduation, she joined Teach for America, where she was placed in Birmingham, AL and taught high school Spanish. After working in the classroom, Yanitsa is committed to the call for educational equity. She is passionate about becoming more knowledgeable of the ways in which the outdoors provide an infinite number of venues towards holistic healing and emotional well-being.

PANELIST

Vanessa is the Outreach and Enrollment Coordinator for Get Outdoors Leadville! She loves the outdoors, serving her community and is passionate about making changes for a better future. Vanessa loves hiking, camping, and reading comic books. She is currently a part time student at CMC working towards her degree of Associates of Art with a major in Environmental Studies. Vanessa's favorite way to spend time outside is hiking.

PANELIST

Claudio is the Community Programs Manager for Get Outdoors Leadville! Claudio grew up in the Cajón del Maipo, central Andes of Chile, he is married to Nicki, father of 3-year-old Wren Kuyen. He likes outdoor sports, he is passionate about mountains, expeditions and exploration, he likes to know different places and cultures, and tries to be in constant movement and learning. What he likes to do most in nature is mountaineering in any of its forms, alpine style being his favorite.