Celebrating #LatinosMarinos: Yulisma Martinez
In this edition of Celebrating #LatinosMarinos, we spoke with Yulisma Martinez, a participant in Azul’s inaugural Rising Leaders Initiative class in 2023. This year, she returned to the program as a mentor and joined other #LatinosMarinos for California Ocean Day. She currently leads outreach work around an MPA Observer Program in California, an interest she discovered through her involvement with Azul.
Tell us about yourself and your advocacy journey. How did the Azul Rising Leaders Initiative or connections you made while attending help propel you in your journey?
My name is Yuli Martinez. I was born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and live in San Diego, California. I attended CSU San Marcos, and I graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences. I learned about Azul’s Rising Leaders Initiative through a friend, and it immediately piqued my interest. It was the opportunity I was looking for. However, by doubting my qualifications, I almost talked myself out of applying. When I saw the terms “Ocean,” “Advocate,” and “Leader,” my initial reaction was, “I love the ocean.” I have a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and find all topics related to the ocean fascinating. But the terms “advocate” and “leader” were unfamiliar and intimidating. I knew little about ocean policies and leadership, making me question if I had it in me or if I could truly become a leader.
For a month, I hesitated, staring at the application. It was only with the encouragement of my friends and loved ones that I finally decided to apply. I anxiously checked my email daily, hoping for good news. When I received an acceptance email from the Azul team, I was thrilled and could not believe I was selected.
Throughout my undergraduate years, I worked to pay for school, which made me miss out on many opportunities. Upon graduating, I realized many jobs and internships were restricted to current students and/or U.S. citizens. As a graduate and DACA recipient, I was ineligible for many positions I found. Being chosen for the 2023 Rising Leaders Initiative felt like a breakthrough.
The Azul team helped me meet incredible people and develop my advocacy and leadership skills in ways that felt relevant and could help my community. Prior to meeting other #LatinosMarinos, I did not think I had a story. I did not think I had a story. However, learning from my fellow leaders made me realize I have a story worth sharing and should use my voice to share it with others. Sharing your story with others can be transformative to you and others, as they may find inspiration and connection in your experiences.
This year, I joined other #LatinosMarinos for California Ocean Day in Sacramento. I had the privilege of meeting with elected representatives to advocate for legislative bills that help protect our ocean. Additionally, I was fortunate to join Azul and the 2024 RLI cohort in Washington, D.C., for Semana Azul. I am profoundly grateful for the community I have made through this journey.
Currently, I work at an MPA Observer Program where I work with the community in California to protect our oceans and coasts.
What was the best part of being in a community that celebrated and elevated Latinx Leadership in ocean conservation?
The best part of being in this community was being surrounded by fellow Latinx individuals who shared my passion for ocean conservation. I felt a sense of belonging, and hearing the stories of those who looked like me and shared similar backgrounds was inspiring and motivating.
I also felt a sense of purpose, and it was great knowing that I am making an effort to pave the way for future Latinx leaders who are passionate about protecting our ocean. Our communities’ needs and solutions must be front and center in ocean conservation — that’s why I fight to protect the ocean. Together, we can raise awareness and inspire others to take action for a better future for generations to come
What message do you have for other #LatinosMarinos?
The ocean and our communities need people like you, so don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Take a step forward and become an advocate for both the ocean and your own potential – you are more capable than you realize.
