Spotlight: Mayra Molina

The Center for Economic Opportunity and Belonging (CEOB) is excited to continue this Spotlight series where we sit down with organizations to talk about their work and their belonging journey in Utah. 

We recently sat down with Mayra Molina, Executive Director of the Venezuelan Alliance of Utah, to discuss what belonging means to her, her journey in Utah, and how her organization is helping build stronger, more welcoming communities across the state.

In two to three sentences can you explain what you do? 

Our mission is to support the growth and progress of the Hispanic community here in the state of Utah.

What does belonging mean to you?

Belonging is pretty personal for me because of my own experience and the experiences I've heard from other migrants in our community. People come from another country, and they want to call Utah home while still loving where they came from. Sometimes they even feel like they're cheating on their own country because they've grown to love this one so much.

For me, belonging means being able to integrate, be part of the community, love this place, and care for the people around you. It doesn't matter where you're from—we all belong together. We're all part of a community, and if we don't unite as a community, it's going to be hard for us to move forward.

Can you share a little bit about your personal story of finding belonging, or your continued story of finding belonging?

I've been here for many years, and I'm originally from Venezuela. When I first came to Utah, I struggled because I loved this place, but I also loved Venezuela. I kept asking myself, "Where do I belong? Is it here or is it there?" 

Eventually, I realized that belonging is something you have the power to choose. I decided that I was here to make a difference, help my community, and create a positive impact for the people around me. That's when I found my purpose—to serve the community.   

Our mission is to make sure that when people come to Utah, they feel like they belong here, that they have a purpose, and that they're here to help move the state forward while supporting other communities as well. That's something we truly live every day.

How do you think belonging fits into your work?

For us, belonging is part of our journey as an organization as well. As an organization supporting the Hispanic community, it wasn't always easy to feel like we belonged. We had to earn trust and build relationships with leaders and organizations across the state. 

It was a struggle at the beginning, but through trust, commitment, following the laws, educating our community, and working together, we were able to open doors. Once those opportunities came, we were able to make real changes that truly benefited our community.

One of the biggest blessings has been the people of Utah. They opened their doors and welcomed us, saying, "We're here, and we want to work together." Belonging includes everyone—not just minority communities, but everyone who calls Utah home. 

What are some things you believe we need to do as Utahns to make our state a place where everyone belongs?

I think we need to continue creating opportunities where people feel safe, welcomed, and included. There are already great initiatives happening, but they need to continue and become even more accessible to communities.

People are busy. Many work eight to ten hours a day, sometimes two jobs, and they're worried about their families and what's happening around them. Having places where people can come together, express their feelings, and know they're valued as human beings is so important.

Whether it's through cultural events, educational programs, church events, or other community activities, we need to keep promoting opportunities that help people feel included. Belonging doesn't happen overnight. People develop that feeling over time when they know they can go somewhere, be welcomed, and know that others genuinely care about them.

One thing I love about Utah is how organizations work together. We have the opportunity to know each other, collaborate, and refer families to the resources they need. That spirit of working together helps people feel like they truly belong.

How can people get involved?

Utah is the number one state in the country for volunteer work. I always tell people that even though life is busy, volunteering is one of the most valuable ways to support nonprofit organizations. 

Whether it's volunteering, donating, attending events, or becoming part of a team, every contribution matters. You never know where that first opportunity will lead. Many people have started volunteering with us and discovered a passion that shaped their future careers.

I encourage everyone to participate in any way they can. Once people experience what it means to serve others and support their community, their lives change forever. I truly believe that.